LowEndLobster Review: Ibanez EHB1505MS - Transform your EHB with this CRAZY Trick!

Looking to snag one of these basses? Use my Reverb affiliate link!- reverb.grsm.io...
Hey all! Today we're transforming my EHB1005MS into an EHB1505MS using a very powerful trick. Afterwards, we're going to explore the EHB1505MS and compare it to it's cheaper counterpart. Is the EHB1505MS worth the extra $500 over the EHB1005MS? Watch to find out!
Thanks to Kevin at Riot Beard Co! Check him out- riotbeardco
Big thanks to Dom @ ThirdFloorGuitars for setting up my instruments. You can find him at www.thirdfloorguitars.com
Facebook: LowEndLobster
Twitter: @LowEndLobster
Instagram: LowEndLobster
Reverb: reverb.com/shop/lowendlobster

[@stickmanbrains]

*First video I see of this channel* "Salutations crustaceans" Alright, I'm subbed.

[@LowEndLobster]

Welcome aboard!

[@VideoPrens]

@@LowEndLobster You missed opportunity to say welcome to the shore lol

[@rickrolli7091]

Maybe we'll see you in the Discord channel

[@mellino19]

I like how there's are $500 difference between the 1005 and the 1505 models...it's like they worked the price into the model name

[@LowEndLobster]

Holy crap... mind blown.

[@s0d4c4n]

My GSR200 was about $200. My SR650 was about $650

[@ryangoodrow8829]

Ibanez usually does that so you know what you’re getting yourself into price wise

[@carpediemarts705]

Aren't all Ibanez models names for the price already?

[@pjakobsen]

What’s the music with the incredible singing during the incantation?

[@victorscherman1437]

Wow. Love the sound of the nordstrands. Gonna definitely drop a set in my 1005. I do agree that the mellowness of the barts is nice, but you can dial back the top end of clearer pickups a lot more easily than try to add in clarity to something dark. I also think many people who are attracted to these instruments (myself included) want to use them in a metal/prog context where some clank and grit are desirable. Great video!!!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Victor! I'm going to do a more in depth sound comparison where I play with the EQ of both in my next vid, so we shall see! You're right about the genre thing though, I think these basses appeal to many but the nords will definitely make you metal/prog heads happy :)

[@victorscherman1437]

LowEndLobster just an update. I received the big splits from Nordstrand (in p4 housings). Fit pretty perfectly ( maybe about a mm smaller) and they sound much more full range than the barts. Great upgrade and still less money to put them in than getting the 1505 in the first place

[@BullyThaKidd]

what did I just watch....

[@LowEndLobster]

Bass magic previously thought impossible!

[@monke8699]

art

[@trevormacdonald5110]

That part at 3:45 genuinely sent chilld down my back. Whew that sounds good.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Wambo!

[@JeffreyYu]

Exactly the video I've been waiting for this line of basses. Looking forward for the upcoming EHB video's!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jeffery! Happy to deliver :).

[@paulevans4334]

That transformation trick was hilarious, had me laughing my ass off when you started screaming. But seriously the differences between those basses is definitely there.The second one made the first sound like you had turned the tone off, there was just no high end sparkle. I would say if you are going to lay that kind of cash on the EHB 1005MS Save your pennies a little longer and get its big brother.

[@LowEndLobster]

Haha thanks Paul! I agree, the differences between both instruments are HUGE. They have the same preamp, it's all in the pickups here. The barts were a bit of a let down and lacked that high end sparkle that you mentioned, where the nordies had it in spades (almost to a fault, depending on the type of music you like to play). I ended up swapping out the EHB1005MS barts for some Aguilar DCBs, and that opened up the tone quite a bit while maintaining the more traditional character of the 1005 as compared to the more modern 1505.

[@demidevil666]

@@LowEndLobster First of all thank you for all the great content. :) I was wondering, how do you feel about the 1005 now after you've had the Aguilars in there for some months - specifically in comparison to the 1505 with its Nordstrands? Just visually speaking I much prefer the look of the 1005, but by the time you've spent the money for the pickup upgrade, you almost arrive at the price of the 1505. And you have an unused pair of Bartolinis lying around. Doesn't seem reasonable to me to be honest. 🤔 But yeah. How do you feel about this? Thanks again. 😊

[@LowEndLobster]

@@demidevil666 Hey! I've had the aggies in here for quite a while and love em. I'm thinking about doing a John East preamp upgrade in the future as well. I still find the Aguilars to be a nice middle ground between the sort of dull sounding Barts and the very bright Nordies. Those barts are long gone too haha. Price wise, it's slightly past middle ground with the pickup costing $283 and the price difference between models being $450. I'm hoping that they include the DCBs stock in an upcoming EHB model as they've been in other recent models as well.

[@mjmason75]

I got the EHB1505MS-PLF because the pick-ups and tone of the wood sounded much better to me. I liked the 1005 as well, but the 1505 was way better for me for the additional $500 bucks I had to cough up! I already have a custom Warwick Thumb bass (2006 special ed "Dirty Blonde") and a Ken Smith Jazz bass that both play and sound amazing, so I didn't want to get an Ibanez EHB1005 which to me doesn't compare to my main 2 basses I've been playing for years. And even though the EHB1505 costs less than both of my other basses, it's definitely comparable as far as quality and tone. Different tones with each of course, but all great for what they are. The EHB1500 series bass from Ibanez is definitely worth the price if you can swing it. The only thing I don't like about it, which can be changed, is the plastic knobs. They seem cheap, and needed to be adjusted because the dual pot knobs rub together and when you adjust one know the other one moves with it. Maybe they used them to keep the bass light or whatever. I don't know the reason, but I plan to upgrade them later to something better. Probably black solid metal knobs if I can find something. I honestly haven't looked into replacing them yet.

[@WillyFranklinOnBass]

I agree... The Bartolini equipped bass sounds like it has a blanket on the tone...

[@michaelseidman924]

I wanted to make my own KZbin channel but then I ran into a lobster themed guitar channel that has the starting quote “salutations crustaceans” and now realize nothing I do will ever beat that

[@michaelseidman924]

I somehow forgot dude even has a lobster hand, which adds to the unbeatability

[@LowEndLobster]

Ahaha thanks man! Don't let me stand in your way. There's plenty of room in the youtube bass space!

[@sakondisable]

You're my fave bass channel right now. I never got the hype about the 1005 even though a lot of channels were pushing it real hard. It just didn't sound interesting. Now, having seen this video I realize that the pickups were the weak link. The 1505 sounds much much better with these pickups. Can't wait to hear the Aguilars!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Chris! That means a lot :).

[@cunjoz]

yeah. the 1005 sounds so dead and we know it's not the strings because our Lobster here puts the same fresh set of strings on each bass he reviews.

[@danjocastro]

That disco ball though! My one year old starting balling at that part lol

[@LowEndLobster]

Hahahaha that made my morning

[@prepperchannel]

I'm looking forward to hearing the Aguilar pickups, there stuff is great.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ross!

[@dnp41]

@@LowEndLobster yeah real curious!!

[@LowEndLobster]

@@dnp41 It's coming! The pickups have been sitting on my desk for a couple of weeks now haha. I'm so behind on these videos, but I work a full time CyberSec role on top of doing this (and being an avid PC gamer haha).

[@dnp41]

@@LowEndLobster haha you're already putting out a lot of content in a very short time frame :D

[@AloysiusChowBass]

I cant waittttt to hear on the change out to Aguilar pickup!! That'll be so exciting!!

[@MegaBassfunk]

Those instruments have very noticeable differences in sound! I would have to say those Nordys are vastly superior to the Barts. I’d love to hear them in the green one to see if the wood makes any difference at all.

[@LowEndLobster]

Sadly they're different sizes slightly. I do have a set of Aguilars coming for the green one though :)

[@mixbassdj]

That black bass comes with pseudo Bartolini pickups... not the real Class A pickups... That's why the much lower quality... and you see it in the price... the version of that black bass with real Bartolini's is much higher

[@tonycarel1785]

You have got to bring back this type of entertainment to your videos so much fun to watch!! Great great video

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Tony! I really should hahaha, I try from time to time but I need to do more! I really appreciate the feedback :) I don't know how I got the most wholesome KZbin audience ever.

[@tonycarel1785]

@@LowEndLobster your a fun guy to watch and someone who is educated. Keep up the awesome work!!

[@SPOGGETT]

i was amused, but unconvinced to pinch that like buttn until i heard the holy song playing.... sold!

[@LowEndLobster]

Ya spooked me!

[@diabloman]

I would be very excited to see if you pick up one of the short scale EHB's that are coming out. Short scale is more my thing(4 string 30") but Ive also been very curious how a mid-short multiscale 5 would work out, the 30-32" on the short scale 5 is very enticing.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks diabloman! We'll definitely be snagging one when they're available :)

[@rasmillion]

1505 sounds better dude, nice upgrade choice, Nordstrand is win

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ras!

[@TheKablue]

Exactly what I thought first time through on both basses.

[@dnp41]

Really like these videos, so keep em coming. My only suggestion would be to also include pickstyle in the videos. I know we're a minority but it would be really appreciated!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! I'd love to include that, but I can't play with a pick at all. I'm terrible with it. However... I do have something in mind that you may like. Question for you, what is your favorite genre of music?

[@dnp41]

@@LowEndLobster I really like to play mostly Motown and earlier funk things. But for listening, it's rock music

[@juanticimo]

I am so on the fence between the two models, thanks for thehelp! subbed

[@LowEndLobster]

Awesome :) So glad you found the video helpful! I did a few more vids on the EHB series including a pickup swap on my EHB1005MS, be sure to check those out :)

[@jwguitar]

Sweet bass! Even better video!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks!

[@someonesomewhere8805]

Honestly I dig the tone 1005 better. It’s not as open and clear, but it’s a bit tighter and low mid focused. That’s right up my alley. Cool video. Never seen you before.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks! I just started up my channel back in March. Glad you enjoyed :). Going to be doing a follow up vid with new strings for both of these (just shot it) and will be doing the pickup swap soon. Stay tuned :)

[@javierparravillegas5505]

I see it that way too, after having both basses I still liked the 1005 more than the 1505 :: the sound was warmer and I love the Sea Foam Green for the win. Seriously thinking of getting one again 😂

[@charlarge3555]

Looking forward to the video with the swap out. Thanks so much!

[@heathen_actual]

I thought I was only going to be subscribing for the channel name… then some magic trick was pulled and I knew. I had to!! 🤣🤣

[@radiantmind8729]

I wish it weren't $500 more, but damn it sure sounds good, and it's absolutely beautiful.

[@Khaospenguiny]

While the Nordys sound a bit bright, and the Barts sound more mellow, the real test is how it'll sound in a mix with drums, guitars and vocals. Very hard to make that 'better' call until you've got the sound in context. A lot of the time mellow basses that sound great solo'd get lost in the mix, and the bright transient that seems harsh alone is needed for clarity in a mix.

[@LowEndLobster]

That's a very good point. I'll be sure to do some "full band" recordings for my next EHB vid. May even have a special guest!

[@Khaospenguiny]

@@LowEndLobster Great video though. Appreciate all you're doing my man

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! I appreciate you taking the time to watch and enjoy :)

[@JJacobKazam]

I prefer the sound of the 1005

[@wolfster2287]

I was laughing all the way up to 3:38, then I really lost it at :3:40 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Awesomeness!!

[@LowEndLobster]

:)

[@brianbaker5640]

Would you ever consider doing a review on an Ibanez mezzo 5 string 32 inch scale bass? I was amazed how good the b string sounds on a medium scale bass. But of course they made the mistake of putting a single coil in the jazz bass position, so it buzzes.

[@oggorat]

Great review!! This answers everything I wanted to know back when they released these. Much prefer the look of the 1005MS but was never a big fan of Barts, if your pickup swap goes well I'll be tempted to get one and do the same.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Oggo! Wrapping up a few other videos before filming the next bit of the EHB series. I'm excited to see how the Aguilars sound too :)

[@macmcmillan]

Another great video and you’ve really sparked my interest in one of these headless Ibanez basses but possibly the 4 string model. I’m hoping that there will be an Aguilar pickup swap available for that?

[@LowEndLobster]

The DCBs should fit in either model from what I understand.

[@macmcmillan]

Awesome. Thank you

[@rcjd7834]

As much as I love the look, sound,and style of these basses, I have one major qualm. The whole reason I would buy a multiscale is so I could get a super long low B for down tuning. The longest scale length on this Ibanez is only 35” which is the same as my Jackson. If these had the longer scale length of a Dingwall I would buy one in a heartbeat. As of now, I’d love to see you check out the ESP B-1005SE. It is a multiscale 5 string with the scale lengths of a Dingwall but in a much more affordable and visually pleasing package. They also have the same Nordstrand Big Splits as the EHB basses.

[@LowEndLobster]

Jonathan.... EXCELLENT COMMENT! You're right about the scale length of the EHB, it maxes out at 35" (probably to avoid string compatibility issues is my guess). I have yearned for a dingwall, but none have presented themselves to me in an affordable manner (I don't like spending $2k+ on a single instrument). I love ESP instruments and will DEFINITELY snag one of those multiscale ones in the future. Thank you for the tip!

[@5urg3x]

Plenty of folks tune lower than that on a regular 4 string though (34" scale), like for the lowest pitched string they'll use an A or even lower. I really don't think longer than 35" is necessary, but that's just my personal opinion. It's all about personal preference at the end of the day. For me though, the longer it is, the bigger the neck, the more likelihood you're gonna get neck dive, and just the more uncomfortable it is to play.

[@henkehakansson2004]

ESP/LTD is a better bet than Dingwall. That is the China/Asian made ones of course. First, they do have the full scale with low B at 37", as opposed to Ibanez. Probably Ibanez thing is to do have a greater chance of finding "regular" strings that fits, normal long scale. Low B does not start to sound decent until at least 36". No matter what gauge. I bought a 4 string LTD/ESP ESP B-1004SE and modded it in the nut, to take strings for BEAD tuning. A .127 gauge on bottom. Worked a charm. And ESP/LTD came with Nordstrands anyway from the start on. ESP/LTD (and as we have seen Ibanez too) can take and accept a plethora of 3rd party pickups to swap out and mix and match later on. Dingwalls with their, now, rounded shells can take...Dingwall pickups only. Same here, if the Ibanez came in headless with FULL scale fan like, at least 36.25 at the low B, I would - too - buy it in a heartbeat. Longer than 35" IS necessary for a low B. Not maybe playing just low down, and open at the low B, but if you play that low B up around 12th fret you'll certainly hear and feel the differnce, the notes doesn't sound sour (un-intonated) and doesn't fart out on the decay, the sustain is still as long as down there at the first few frets. On the contrary, I would say that longer than 37" is not necessary. Because of the increased stretch and impossibility to find strings for it. Ok, so Dingwals and ESP/LTD is not headless, and Ibanez is, but that's about all there is to it. The headlesses (!?) doesn't neck dive, but believe me both Dingwall, and ESP/LTD do. One of them a lot, but I wont tell you which....;-)

[@LowEndLobster]

@@henkehakansson2004 I'll have a loot at that ESP at some point! I can stomach spending ESP money, but Dingwall money is a bit steeper ;P. I appreciate the detailed info!

[@henkehakansson2004]

@@LowEndLobster Thank you! By and large, if having to chose only between Dingwall and ESP it's about the same high-end range prices (Combustion, vs B-1005SE) I do think ESP/LTD is a sturdier build both in neck and body with it's darker slightly heavier wood. And has slightly better hardware, and definitely pickups too (LTD has Nordstrands). But hey, this vid was all about Ibanez. If Ibanez came with a 4 string headless (they have, but not multiscale) PLUS fanned frets with the low E string set at 36.25" and G at regular 34" I would buy it in a heartbeat and have a BEAD tuned bass and run with that. And of course, with Nordstrands...:-) BTW that's my take on FANNED FRETS PLUS HEADLESS combined. Chances are - thanks to their construction - that you'll can find regular long scale string sets to run on them without having to go on a quest to find only ths or that brand. Behind the zero fret/nut there's very little slack and then the string ends (clamped down and cut), and at the bridge there's very little distance too, towards the ball end. I mean the following beats me, always did and ever will: 1. The reason for having a headpiece on headless that can take single ball end strings, was that you didn't have to hunt down double ball end string sets that only was made from a few manufacturers. You could use your favorite brand of strings. And even those you didn't. Use the same set as regular basses. Find them everywhere. 2. Now with fanned frets and longer scale, and having to hunt down single ball end strings to fit the extra long scale, you anyway have to resort to use manufacturers that makes extra long scale string sets for fanned frets basses ONLY, which forces you to choose between a few manufacturers anyway, and not your favorite brand of strings. And you don't find them everywhere... anyway. Sort of back to square one! Defeats the purpose. Beats me. ;-)

[@artisan337]

I love the Nordstrand Big Splits on my 1505 and if I thought I was going to purchase a 1005 and mod it with Aguilars, the increased cost of the 1505 to me is arguably justified. I would like to see a 5-string EHB with Ibanez T1 pickups; they're the best sounding in-house pickups I've heard on an Ibanez.

[@gregpantelides1355]

I think the Nordstrand's sound much more articulate than the Bartolini's. Once I get my EHB 1000 I'm planning on throwing the Nordstrand in eventually. Although I really do like the smoothness of the Bartolini's....so I'm going to play with them for awhile.

[@LowEndLobster]

There's definitely a lot more clarity with the Nords, but you're right about the smoothness of the Barts. I'm excited to see what other tones different pickups can get out of the 1005 (keeping the 1505 stock).

[@gregpantelides1355]

@@LowEndLobster I think the Nordstrand's have just a tad too much emphasis in the higher mids for my taste. If I could get the warmth of the Barts with clarity on the top end of the Nordstrand's that would be perfect! But everything considered the EHB-1000 with the Barts checks so many boxes for me. :-) And I'm so happy kitty is back!!!

[@gregpantelides1355]

​@@LowEndLobster Would you be willing to demo the EQ, specifically the active treble control? I'm curious if it helps with the relative dulness in the high end of the 1005. Thanks!

[@LowEndLobster]

@@gregpantelides1355 Absolutely! I'm actually going to do one more follow up video where I swap the strings on both basses to a fresh set and explore the EQs of both a little bit more. Afterwards, the next EHB vid will be swapping the pickups on the 1005 with the Aguilars (they came yesterday and I can't wait to do it!).

[@gregpantelides1355]

@@LowEndLobster Thank you so much! Which Aguilars did you end up getting. I'm deciding between the DCB and the Super Doubles, myself. I love how harmonically rich the Aguilar pickups are.

[@FreeformRock]

Thanks for the reviews man, really helping me out. How many claws did the ehb 1005 get? I can't find it haha!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Stewie! That was part of a head-to-head, when I was still working out my format. It got 4/5. It's weakest points IMO are the pickups, but overall I love the roasted neck and matte finish. The preamp is solid as well, though I eventually will swap mine out for fun haha.

[@FreeformRock]

@@LowEndLobster Thanks Lobster! I'm really enjoying your channel. I wish you the best of luck!

[@sethnicholls7861]

Those stock w the stock passive Bart's and whatever pre Ibanez seems to use in most of their basses never did much for me, but I do like the Nordstrom pickups paired with the right preamp, totally seems like what Ibanez needs to address to standout like every other cool new things they're trying.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Seth, I agree. They're putting the DCBs that I swapped into my EHB1005 (after this vid) into other models, wish they'd throw a set in as stock for the EHB. The Barts do not do the instrument justice!

[@TheBeardofDOOM]

I keep coming back to this just to watch the magic trick. Comedic gold!

[@LowEndLobster]

Hahah thank you :). The trick might make another appearance in an upcoming video.

[@TheBeardofDOOM]

@@LowEndLobster perhaps 1980's Bubba Bear will resurface again too 😂

[@4the0cean]

That was fricking hilarious!

[@LowEndLobster]

:D Glad you enjoyed this!

[@gregpantelides1355]

Lobster how do you record your bass direct while recording a video at the same time and overlaying the two? Do you put your vocal mic and direct bass signal through an interface and then into a daw? I think we need a “how to make tech bass videos like Lobster video”. :-)

[@LowEndLobster]

Commenting so this doesn't show up in my not responded queue ;P. Congrats on your 15 minutes of fame in my Q&A! hahaha

[@NelsonMontana1234]

Norstrands sound amazing -- in the music store. But they don't really cut through the frequencies of other instruments -- either live or on recordings. All those snappy highs and deep lows get sucked up. Bartolinis aren't the best option because they're a bit mellow. The stock pups on a SR 400 actually work better. I know that shouldn't be the case, But it is.

[@LunatiqueRob]

How old are the strings on the EHB1005? They almost sound like the strings had been dulled instead of fresh strings. Also, if you tweaked the active EQ on it a bit, could you have matched the tone of the EHB1505 very closely?

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey Rob! That's a great question. They're the original strings, about two months old. Even though I play a lot of the EHB, I'm not playing hours a day on this thing. I'm going to swap both sets of strings out for MJC nickels to do a true apples to apples in a future short video. I don't tweaking the EQ would have done much for the Barts. The Nords are much hotter, and an EQ tweak won't replicate that. I'll be sure to explore the EQs of both basses more when I do the next EHB vid though. Thanks for the suggestions!

[@YanDoroshenko]

...costs around $1700 which is around 500 more than 1005. Something doesn't add up there...

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey now ;P, 1005 was around 1200 at the time

[@streamerlx4927]

Well, i think you put the 1505 into the bag but didn't show it! I don't think you have magic powers.

[@LowEndLobster]

:O then explain the wizard hat!

[@trevorblair5552]

The blue version sounded a little brighter which I prefer. Five bills more for the blue version, the jury is out on that one. 👍🏾

[@LowEndLobster]

Glad you liked it! The 1505MS is a killer bass. This isn't the last time you'll be seeing either :)

[@Idontlikethisever]

Those frets always reminds me of those Microsoft ergonomic keyboards when they came out. I don't like both😂🤣

[@LowEndLobster]

LOL I see it! ... man I hated those keyboards

[@Masssshysteria]

Why is the top horn longer (seemingly) and shaped like how it is new player and genuinely curious

[@LowEndLobster]

Great question! I believe it's for strap ergonomics so the bass will sit a certain way when you play with a strap.

[@fernandoperdomomusic]

your incantation was seriously the funniest thing I have seen on KZbin ever .. it still makes me belly laugh

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you :)

[@kennthy]

Nice video, Lobster. I wasn't expecting such a big difference in sound between the two basses, it was like night and day. I though about buying one of these basses in the future so I hope you keep experimenting with them :) I have some questions about the neck, what do you think about it? How do you feel it compares with other 5 string basses and even 4 string basses? Cheers!

[@LowEndLobster]

Those are great questions! I like the neck a lot. Very comfortable and easy to play for me. I will go into more detail and measurements in a follow up video to address these questions in more detail

[@josephjordan2883]

Ahhh yes! I’d seen this a while back and had to watch it again! The hair metal screams are epic! I was dying!!!

[@arturovod5847]

You Bass Maestro! Respect to you!

[@rockon856]

Keen to hear the pickup swap lobster!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Steve!

[@craighudson4382]

Wow, huge difference. Barts sound very dead in comparison. Like you say , subjective, but I much prefer the 1505 on all PU's and playing styles to the 1005.Great job Lobster!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Craig!

[@CordScott]

I'm just the opposite. I think the barts sound warmer and will sit in the mix well.

[@travatron4000]

IDK, I kinda like the Barts better....? The Nords are brighter but also harsher....? Hard to tell w/o "in the room" feel. I like the 1005 finishes better. Though when he did the Aguilar swap it made me want to swap the Bart in my Cort Curbow, but can't find anyone who sells single AG Pups.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks! Indeed I think the Aguilars were an improvement over the barts, but I liked the barts over the nordies. Not sure if you can get individual DCBs

[@kirtfulcher6288]

I'm surprised (I'm not done yet, just at 6:30), I'm liking the Barts more... sure the Nordys sound good for slap but the Barts actually sound SMOOTHER over all. Dunno if that could be different strings but the 1505 sound almost too harsh... with a lot more finger noise...

[@LowEndLobster]

I noticed that as well, the barts are definitely smoother while the nordies are a bit hotter and have more bite. I'm going to replace both sets of strings with some MJC nickels and do a second sound comparison in the future.

[@rl-ub9hx]

I've messed with the barts height and brought them up past where you'd really want them. I was able to get a lot more growl and bite out of them than I thought possible. My initial reaction to the barts was "these have got to go". I've now adjusted that thought and will replace the preamp first and see how that works out before going the nord route. Also, this is definitely a rock/metal bass for me.

[@joelanderson_t]

Lol, that magic dancing song is going to be stuck in my head XD 1:25

[@LowEndLobster]

;P

[@randombassplayer_07]

You're a wizard bro.

[@LowEndLobster]

:D

[@randombassplayer_07]

Love your videos!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you!

[@merciless2032]

Man, when I heard big enough I instantly pinched the like button xd

[@LowEndLobster]

No joke, I watch Big Enough before I shoot videos.... every time... and then I take a random screencap of somewhere random in the video, send it to one of my best friends that way he knows... and I know he knows... and he knows I know that he knows.

[@joselbajistabassbmx1124]

The 1005 It sounds cheap and not because of the Bartolini pickups or the electronics, but because the body woods are leftover pieces of poor quality woods, which is the reason why the bodies of the Ibanez 1005 are painted in their entirety to hide that the cheap body woods They are unions of surpluses. So for saving a little money what you buy is Garbage 🗑. I love Bartolini pickups, but in woods that are not sonorous they amplify the deficiencies, that is the cheap sound of the Ibanez 1005, so I recommend For $500 more buy the Ibanez1505, not only for the Norstrand pickups, because as I said I love them bartolini, if not because the quality of the wood is high-end, that is why they are not painted in their tone and you can see the lines of high-quality wood, also the woods of the Neck are of a higher range. Gentlemen, the woods speak. There is too much that the 1505 offers for only $500.

[@YanDoroshenko]

People say that those Bartolini MKs are not Bartolinis at all. If they were, they would have probably been listed on their website.

[@YanDoroshenko]

Same goes for BH (which probably stands for Bass Humbucker).

[@LowEndLobster]

Yes, they're not produced by Bartolini from what I understand and are made overseas. They're like the CND 'Nordstrands' that are in other Ibanez basses. The EHB1505 however has actual USA nordies, but the lower end ones are also produced overseas. Great comment!

[@XxonedayafterxX]

I need to see the pick up swap!

[@LowEndLobster]

Coming soon :)

[@christinamichelle8790]

I know this is an older video, but how is the low B string on these? I’ve had a sire v7 since 2019 and I hate the low B string. Looking for a better replacement--also one that’s lightweight. I know the Lakland would be good but need something easier on my back. Thank you Lobster. Good to have you back!

[@teresaravenshaw5477]

The big downside to the 1005 to me is the seafoam green, the only colour available lefty. Nice on some retro 50s stuff but not here. And the 1505 isn't available to me either. So no multi-scale headless for me yet.

[@LowEndLobster]

Bummer that they don't offer more lefty versions

[@bmasta7]

The lip syncing in the beginning. Hilarious.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you :)

[@XVENDETTA100]

How about the intonation of multiscale version compared to 1505 non multiscale with some pickup....is any noticeable thing other than subjective feeling ?

[@TheBeardofDOOM]

I am a huge fan of the Nordstrands. I own the Ibanez SRMS805 with the Bartolini pickups and though they are not bad at all, they are too *nice* sounding for my favored metal tone. I will double back and let you know when I get my EHB 1506. As for the price difference, I absolutely think the exotic woods are worth the cost, but for those who don't want to pay the premium, the EHB1000 or 1005 (plain or ms versions) are a great value. For those who want the sound without the cash, the SRMS805MS/806MS can be had for a bargain on Reverb. Paid $800 for my 805 in excellent condition with a hard case. Beard looks great man!

[@LowEndLobster]

My man! Thank you! I can't wait to hear about your 1506 man.

[@edwinacosta1354]

Hey dude! It's been 2 years! When will we receive another awesome intro?!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@joecasa85]

The main thing is the ability to sing this song as good as the Lobster does. Without to forget that disco ball. Seriously, despite the fact that this series doesn't represent my kind of bass and tone in any way, the sound seems to be better on this one than its little brother 1005. For my taste this one has more growl, more punch, more tone. Never liked the Bartolini that much, but in comparison these Nordstrand pickups seem to be effectively better. But...how can you change the strings on these headless models? I know that they accept every kind of strings, but if I would be an owner of one exemplary of these series I would be catched by anxiety since the first moment when I would think about this aspect! :D Cheers, Jöe

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey Jöe! Thank you ahaha :). Yes, the Nordstrands are better IMO than the barts in the EHB series. However, I did change out the barts later on in my 1005 to Aguilars and still owe everyone a follow up video on the sound. The aguilars are much better than the barts and give me much more of what I wanted out of the 1005. A friend also informed me of some additional options in the control cavity as well that I want to explore! Changing the strings is very easy, almost easier than a normal bass. You loosen the tuner all the way, then release the string clasp at the headstock with an allen wrench. You pop the new string in, pull on it a little and tighten the clasp, then tighten then tuner to the appropriate pitch and you're done :). I did a follow up vid where I changed the strings on both my 1005 and 1505 and explored the preamp in more detail. Thank you for the great comment :)

[@gregellevsen5280]

Hey Lobster, what amp and cab are you running your basses through when you record your videos? I'm just trying to think through the extent to which they might colour the tone we're hearing.

[@derickthomas380]

The norstrand pick ups sound much more' defined cleaner and punchier

[@EnergyChasms]

Great video, any experience with the 1506ms?

[@ramshaar2597]

Nice unic a little bit not my bass enjoy !😃

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you!

[@schmaler68]

Nice Cat ;-) Nice Bass, too. Thanx for compare this. I'm more than shure that it's 500 more worth, the sound is awesome

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you!

[@douglasdiggins8296]

What do you think about getting the 1005, then adding in the Nords? I absolutely hate the finish on the 1505.

[@LowEndLobster]

So the nord dimensions are slightly different than the EHB1005 pickups, but you can order a custom set from Nordstrand that will fit! That's not a bad idea

[@douglasdiggins8296]

@@LowEndLobster i actually just watched you Aguilar swap video... I think Im sold.

[@marcusbjerknes8049]

Nope. Didn't work. My bass was transformed to a Ukulele. Now my recordings don't sound quite right.

[@shamrock3639]

I played both basses. And I bought the 1505. It‘s worth every Dollar. I‘m very happy with it.

[@vanpet1993]

I consider buying one of these bad bois. :D Are there some noticeable cons worth mentioning for these basses?

[@javierparravillegas9535]

So the 1005 is coming with bartolinis and the 1505 with Nordstrand - which means North beach in German btw 😂 but... Is it the same pre amp in both basses ?

[@12resurrected]

Basswood is always a hollow sounding wood for a bass. Never like them as they just sound shallow and thuddy. I like the green color better but can’t stand basswood on the few others I’ve played in that wood. I think I’d like the blue bass with the Barts as the Nordstrand pickups are so hifi that the high end sheen wouldn’t cut through a heavy band mix as well. It sounds great as a solo instrument!

[@5urg3x]

I'd rather have the roasted maple neck. The nordstrand pickups do sound a bit brighter to my ears. Crazy that they priced it at $500 more though, there's no way there's that much more worth of wood / hardware. Probably costs around the same for them to make :|

[@LowEndLobster]

I too prefer the feel of the roasted maple, plus I dig the seafoam!

[@spynae]

Jeez, the A/B comparison just reminds me how ucky the Korean Bartolini MK-1s are. It's kind of shameful that Bill really thinks pickups with tone that sounds that thickly blanketed is passable when the US Barts are so bright and responsive.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Stephanie! You're absolutely right. One of the other crustaceans roaming around here sent me some clips of his EHB1005MS and he replaced the neck pickup with a really nice US Bart "P" soapbar and WOW what a difference. The MK1s really are just so mediocre, I really wish they'd do away with them (LAKLAND TOO!)

[@davidpost4216]

I have owned a Seafoam Green EHB1005MS for 3 months now and it has totally spoiled me. I have lots of other basses including some very high end USA made basses and I don’t even want to play them anymore. I just put my first set of replacement strings (Ernie Ball Slinky’s) on the EHB and WOW! It even sounds better than when I first got with the original DiAddario strings. I love the sound of the Bartolini pickups. I would suggest that anybody that owns an EHB1005 try some different strings before they spend a lot of money replacing the pickups.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks David! Indeed! Great comment :)

[@rickrolli7091]

The Nordstrand pickups are much better than the Bart's. I wonder what the actual price difference is? To buy them outright is probably at least $200. The color of the 1505 is way better. However I would like it as a gloss finish than a flat finish. It's an ocean floor bottom. It should look like it's wet. It's kind of like the SR1605 with the Nordstrand in it.

[@LowEndLobster]

Oh man, Rick. I agree on the finishes. The 1505 with some gloss behind the ocean floor finish would be KILLLLLLER

[@SinnedToy]

Does the locking mechanism for the strings look they they'll be able to take larger gauge strings? (130 from the factory, but say a 135, 140 or 145?)

[@LowEndLobster]

I would think so. I don't really use those heavier strings. The top loading mechanism looks to support a wide variety of string thicknesses.

[@SinnedToy]

@@LowEndLobster Awesome! Thanks!!

[@robsimmonds7685]

Thank you for this review Mr Lobster! This confirms my own findings that Nordys are more open sounding with a clearer top end than Barts. Some Barts can tend to sound a little too dark, muffled and 'humbuckery' for my tastes. P.S. What do you use to process your bass' signal? I always hear a little compression 'popping' on the attack of your notes... Is it a dedicated compressor that you use or is it just KZbin's compression? Many thanks and keep up the great work! ;)

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Rob! My bass signal goes into my Orange CR50BXT, and I go direct from the line out on that into my Focusrite. The bass audio is recorded on Reason 11. I used to have a dedicated compressor long ago, but in this case I believe it's the Focusrite and nothing KZbin related. I notice that it does a little bit of compression and I think that's where it's coming from.

[@ikigai47]

@@LowEndLobster Focusrite? Reason? Wow I have the same exact setup. My Focusrite is the Saffire Pro 40

[@berger912]

Do you know the weight of the 1505ms and the 1005ms weight is a big concern to me I have herniated discs in my back

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey David! Sorry to hear about your back. The 1505MS is 7 lbs, the 1005MS is 7.2 on the digital bathroom scale I use. They're very light basses.

[@DanielPerez-vt5ez]

Great job lip syncing all the yells! 😁😄 In my dreams, I have a beard just like yours!

[@kirtfulcher6288]

you could get roughly the same Nordy pups for ~$250, so if you can get the right sized ones, you could keep that beautiful seafoam and get the Nordys for less than that $500... even better if you can sell the Barts. But again, I actually found the Barts to sound more "clean" and "smooth"

[@LowEndLobster]

Indeed, though the housing size is slightly different (1mm narrower, and 1 mm longer), I believe someone was quoted 279 plus shipping for ones that would fit. I want to see how the Aguilars fit into the mix compared to these two sets of pickups. Perhaps they'll be a nice middle ground between the harsh Nordies and the smooth Barts?

[@Saxoprane]

Clickbait. I'm subbed.

[@LowEndLobster]

Welcome! Sweet Dingwall in your profile pic!

[@scarysharkface]

I've got the EHB1506MS and really like it so far. I sold a pristine Cirrus Tiger Eye 5 that just didn't have the sizzle of the 1506 with the Nordstrands. Your A/B comparison somewhat mimics the issue I was having with the Peavey (which had the nicest neck I think I've ever played, but oh well). Great video!

[@MattCitrano]

Looking into the EHB series and wow…that incantation was something else hahahahaha

[@LowEndLobster]

Hope it helped ;P

[@steverolfeca]

I know this puts me in the minority, but I’m not knocked out by the Nordstrands… Too crispy. The Barts do lack some character in comparison, but I wouldn’t pay an extra $200 for the 1505, never mind $500. And I LOVE the look of the 1505’s fingerboard!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Steve! I'm with you

[@jeffjones1143]

Hey the woods and the nordys make the 1005 almost worth it!! Yes and your kitty is very fuzzy... Sort of like your beard... Anyway I didn't like the Barts at all very muddy . I can't wait to hear it with the Agulars.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jeff! Yeah the stock barts in the EHB are honestly a shame. Swapping them out is well worth it IMO!

[@lawrencebyrdsong7570]

Nordstrand for the win hands down

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Lawrence!

[@milocabral7428]

I’d definitely say this is the superior bass of the two as compared to the 1005. The Nordstrands sound far better and with the cost of of the pickups on their own you’d end up spending a very similar amount of money if you put them in the 1005 and the rest of the cost is explained by the rarer woods and finish.

[@bassimprovjams3772]

I really think the northstrands are better cant wait for the mod video!! $500 is a lot more i can see $250 more.. oh nvm I'm 7months behind you already dis the swap lmao heading there now lol

[@LowEndLobster]

LOL XD KZbin is like a time machine

[@moose656]

So is the neck curved or is it an ilusion?

[@trivu5951]

Does anyone try to fit JohnEast uni pre 4 knob into EHB1505? Thanks.

[@nathanmccook133]

U can't just disregard the wood change though that 100% is what changes the price. Yes the pickups raise it some too but panga panga cost way more then roasted maple. Plus mahogany and poplar burl cost close to double the cost of basswood...as a luthier I can tell you that's why the cost is more and if you don't care about tonewoods then don't buy the higher model and switch pickups in the lower one. But it still wouldn't be the same nor the same value because wood cost is 90%+ the thing that determines and instruments cost

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Nathan!

[@haskellthompson6310]

I like barts the real USA made ones but I find the weak point is the preamp not the pickups

[@krazyolie]

The Nordstrands sounds really nice -the blue burled top doesn't work for me here though - the 4 string colour is nice, though

[@johnmoser2689]

Ok don't ever do that again

[@LowEndLobster]

I can't make any promises ;P

[@oleran4569]

Oh my! You...responding to a recent comment from a months old video just shows that you are a KZbinr of dedication. Your videos are excellent as is your apparent knowledge of craft! Of course I subscribed (after forgetting to do so for months). I hope you become the talkbass of KZbin.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! I enjoy interacting with folks who are passionate about bass and learning about bass. So glad you're enjoying the content

[@prestonpigg8405]

Hey, dig your channel, just watched your epiphone tbird pro v video... I’m looking to buy one as a gift for my dad and have had no luck finding one on eBay or reverb in the USA listed. Any suggestions?

[@LowEndLobster]

Reverb is where I found mine. Ebay and talkbass are probably your best other bets.