Yamaha BB234 vs Ibanez SR300E

[Yahboy]

Curious what you mean by "unstable neck issue?" I do notice that I have to adjust tuning on my SR370EF every time I take it out of its bag, but it stays in tune while I'm playing it, until the next day. I wouldn't call it unstable, just not "rock solid" like my Fender Jazz and premium-level SR1350B, which do not require re-tuning every time I play them.

It's a thin neck without stabilizing rods, and only a 4 bolt neck/body connection, to a relatively soft maple body, so I guess that's par for the course?

Unlike my previous Korean made SR705 , Indo SRFF805 and my current SRMS 725, my SR300E has notable neck relief get off easily even just little temperature or humid change.

 

[Bassinthemudd]

Thanks everybody, I totally appreciate your posts.

I just found a bb234 on Ebay for $150 and jumped on it! I got it so cheap Im thinking I may be able to go over board and get the ibby too!

Not that I really need both but it's kind of tempting.

Congrats! I was going to recommend getting a used BB434, but if the one you bought has no serious issues, then you've done quite well. Looking forward to a NBD post!

 

[jeffco]

Between those two, I would lean towards the BB234. Nothing wrong the SR300E though. Try both in person if you can.

Also consider checking out a TRBX174. Slightly cheaper than a BB234, same simple passive PJ (VVT) pickup config as the BB234. I find them to be really well made for the price.

I second this!

 

[Ash Jazz]

I found an unbelievable deal on a BB234, $150, perfect condition, nice soft case, and even button locks included. Nice bass, pick-ups sound good, looks good, feels good. One issue, fret buzzing on the 2nd, 3rd, and fourth frets. I'm going to let it sit a bit since I just took it out of the box. Otherwise I'm sure its nothing a little set up work wont fix.

 

[CallMeAl]

I’d probably go Yamaha. Last time I was demoing, the 234 was head and shoulders above every other bass in the price bracket. Great fit and finish.

The Yamaha has a 40mm nut. While I’m a fan of SR and Jazz necks, I do find the Yamaha necks very comfortable and barely can notice the difference. Plus I like the passive PJ pickups.

 

[joeLowB]

I found an unbelievable deal on a BB234, $150, perfect condition, nice soft case, and even button locks included. Nice bass, pick-ups sound good, looks good, feels good. One issue, fret buzzing on the 2nd, 3rd, and fourth frets. I'm going to let it sit a bit since I just took it out of the box. Otherwise I'm sure its nothing a little set up work wont fix.

Awesome!

Sounds like some careful set up work will take care of that buzz.

Happy for you!