Modulus Quantum Q5 In Depth - Timeless Carbon Fiber Goodness - LowEndLobster Fresh Look

[@pCeLobster]

To this day one of the best live bass tones I've heard was some kid, probably a Berklee student, playing one of these basses with a jazz group in Boston Common. No PA, no nothing, just a combo amp that he was sitting on. It sounded so awesome. He was a good player too.

[@JustSnowglow]

The B string almost lining up with the frame rate of the video at 3:50 is so satisfying.

[@LowEndLobster]

WOAH! I didn't notice that. That is SO COOL

[@PerezBroz-p5o]

This is like the best sounding bass I've ever heard.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Arthur!

[@kodykindhart5644]

How does it compare to the Reverend basses?

[@LowEndLobster]

@@kodykindhart5644 both are great, but at completely different price points

[@derekzelenka6740]

@@kodykindhart5644 it’s a completely different instrument

[@kennethwilson1984]

One of the best playing as well

[@perrysar5954]

Jazz tone,Precision tone Music Man tone,Alembic tone Rickenbacher all from one instrument...MIND-BLOWING!!!

[@bizibetiko9778]

I haven't seen a Modulus in a long time. When I was a kid, the music store I used to frequent had a room for the expensive stuff I used to gawk at. I remember when they got in a wall of Modulus bass's. That store was Speir Music. It closed down a long time ago, but those dudes were awesome. They didn't say a word when the poor scraggly looking kid was playing on all of their expensive equipment. They had a layaway plan and I abused that, picking up a few bass's, amps and cabs over the years that they were in business. That brings back memories. I always think of that place when I see a Modulus these days. Seems like it sounds even better now than it did back then!

[@LowEndLobster]

I have similar memories! Modulus and Warwick haha. Same shelves are full of rockbass, squier, and low end ibanez now. Thank you for sharing, Bizi!

[@blmartin2215]

Speir Music in Garland Texas? If so yes I made the pilgrimage to play all the high end stuff. I bought a Roscoe there it was amazing. Modulus Roscoe Pedulla and Warwick’s

[@bizibetiko9778]

@@blmartin2215 That's the one! The "Expensive Room" as I called it was my favorite place on this planet. I always liked the Modulus basses they had, as well as the Tobias, Alembics, Warwicks, Pedullas, and everything else that used to be in that room. There was a 6 string Warwick they had there forever. If memory serves me right, I think it was a Streamer. At the time, I remember it as the nicest bass I had ever played on. When I asked JP what kind of deal I could get, and he said $4.000.00, I was in shock. That's a lot of money now, but back then, that was nuts! JP always gave me some great deals as well. I was afraid to even touch the thing after that. I still have my Pedulla MVP I bought there in 93. I think I had that thing in layaway for the better part of a year!

[@blmartin2215]

@@bizibetiko9778 yea man that room lol. I remember just kinda standing in there looking at the functional art. I had only seen these basses in bass player mag. I remember distinctly seeing a Modulus and a Roscoe hanging and just stared at them.

[@Below-Average_Joe]

I have owned two Q5’s in the days before I began raising a family. I am almost happy I have sort of forgotten how good these basses are.😂😂😊

[@LowEndLobster]

Hahaha, they're quite special indeed!

[@PushSueAside]

I’m old enough to not think the 90’s were that long ago,but new enough to playing bass, to have never heard of these basses. It also could be that the guys that played bass in bands I was in, in the 90’s could never afforded one of these...So cheers, to the lucky owner of it. Thank you for introducing my eyes and ears to wizardry of “high end” of the “low end” of years past. Also, speaking of magic...I use to think that lobster you would wave your claw for a second or two, push pause, flick it off, then push record again.... but I f I did that, my cat would run off. So I truly believe, that pinching that like button, turns you hand back to normal. Cheers

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Tommy! You da man! I appreciate your comments so much

[@bassmanjoe83]

Such a blast from my past! I always loved Modulus basses as a kid. They played themselves and I always saw them as aspirational basses I could get when I was more of a pro. I liked the Bartolini equipped ones slightly over the EMGs, but this still brings back good memories going through a SVT-II at multiple Guitar Centers in my area.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Joe! I share those memories haha, the days when GC had loads of cool toys like Modulus, Warwick, etc.

[@t.c.v.t.]

I worked for production company here in Vermont and we were good friends with gordons crew. His tech used to manage backline for us in-between running out with gordon and the rest of the crew worked up in Burlington and worked for us when not with gordon so we were all buddies. Anytime they were prepping for a tour I had to to clear a part of the shop and make a riser for them to set up the stage and get all the equipment running ready, as shop manager it was my job to make sure they were all set up and unloaded.. The best part was when they would open up the flight case with all the basses. He saw me eye mikes modulus up close so he can over and picked it up and handed it to me to check out and play. Awesome bass and those carbon fiber neck is the only thing Id prefer over a roasted maple.

[@LowEndLobster]

Great story and comment! Thank you for sharing! What an experience :)

[@t.c.v.t.]

@@LowEndLobster it was a sick bass to handle. When ever I would go out on a gig I would eye the bass and give the bass player a compliment on the bass. I would always end up having them offer to check it out. It was fun geeking out bass the rest of the day with the dude while getting payed. Pretty good gig.

[@GGS-GraphiteGuitarSystems]

Modulus has ALOT of history :) it’s super awesome to see a review like this. My boss/grandpa Jerry has owned Graphite Guitar Systems since his split from Modulus.. didn’t know modulus was still up and productive?!?

[@kevinmitchell8650]

The sound of Modulus basses cuts through anything. Great tone!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Kevin! I agree, almost piano like definition

[@Bassic778]

The notes jump off the fretboard! A beautiful bass that produces a very clean and defined tone!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Keith!

[@twocats2543]

Absolutely gorgeous bass with a killer sound. I never was a fan of Modulus with Bartolini electronics. The EMGs sound much better. Nice!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Takoneko!

[@anahowana]

That cat loves you for sure )) And the Modulus is wonderful !

[@Barry101er]

I think this this the best sounding bass I have heard on a YT video.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Barry!

[@iandavis3419]

I purchased my Q5 a few years ago, it has been on every gig with me since, love it so much I just sold my Warwick hotrod and bought another Q5.

[@honeybadger1810]

Wow. Everything about that bass is stellar. Not to mention one of the sexiest basses you can buy.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Brock! I agree

[@thefool2007]

Modulus basses are amazing. Glad to see you got to review one. Mine is in the shop getting some much-needed love (strings-setup-frets crowned). I have owned mine since December 1998 (‘97 model). I’ve owned 100+ instruments since I started playing bass in 1987. It’s the only one I’ve never wanted to sell it. I wish it had a separate battery compartment and wasn’t so heavy; but otherwise it has tone for days. And it loves to stay in tune as well as be easily moved to drop tuning without needing setup adjustments.

[@LowEndLobster]

Yours sounds awesome! Thanks for sharing, Rick!

[@michaelkeefer4293]

A good friend of mine has that exact same Modulus except his has a red finish. I've gotten to play it on more then a few occasions and it is truly a great instrument. 👍

[@LowEndLobster]

Nice! Thanks Michael!

[@cwilliamsphoto]

Ahhh yes...now you need to test one of Geoff Gould's GGi basses. If you think the Quantum is nice, just wait. The necks are even better! When I had my Q5 I swapped the Bart setup for all EMG's along with its BQC system preamp. The mid sweep was a must for me on the Modulus, but I don't need it on my GGi basses.

[@vincentmorelli1013]

I remember several years back a Funk Unlimited went for 2 and a half grand. Now they want 5 and half. Don't remember how much the Quantum or TBX went for but now they're close to $10k. Crazy times we live in. All in all, I'm more than happy with my Ric 4003S.

[@peadookie]

I bought a new 5A quilt top Q6 back in '07 for about $3200. As a stupid kid, I sold it to make a CC payment. Years later, regretting the decision for almost a decade, I came across a Q5 with lacewood top for $1k. I ended up hanging on to it and I'm glad I did - just recently checked prices and it's now worth over $3k. Then I saw new prices... Crazy!

[@LowEndLobster]

Right? Prices have gotten nuts. Thanks for sharing Vincent and Pea!

[@ianstrickland5280]

Nice! Got one behind me, an 01’ blue 5 as wel, my dad when he was my age played them and unfortunately had to sell all his gear and after me playing for a while now he bought one back

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks for sharing, Ian! Glad he got one back :)

[@chriswenkle2635]

Really nice video! Modulus basses are really stout, and the 35" scale makes that B sound massive. One thing I will say though; your cats absolutely love you! Thanks Lobster!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Chris!

[@Mantismd]

My god I’ve wanted one for years and this video… pinnacle sound. Thanks for the video fellow new englander!

[@keytronek]

I had a Q5 Fretless back at the turn of the century. It saw regular duty for a few years, but then I crossed paths with a Warwick Dolphin I Pro V Fretless, and that became my new #1.

[@LowEndLobster]

Nice! Those Dolphins are awesome looking!

[@keytronek]

@@LowEndLobster Eventually the weight of that monster wore me down and I moved over to a Fortress 5 Fretless. I like the 2x single MEC pickup config better then the single/dual.

[@paulsnijder2031]

My favourite Bass brand! I only wish they were more available, especially here in Europe.

[@claudi0barragan]

Unfortunately it is not likely to happen . Modulus is now bassically a two man operation. Master luthier and a brand owner-do it all. More like a specialty - custom - one off builds

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Paul!

[@pczYT]

One of my dream basses from Late 90's. The only thing I can't stand is these EMGs pickups / preamp. I have a set in one of my basses and they sound trebly no matter what you do. There's this high end clickity clackity always there, even with the treble AND mids rolled down all the way.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Paolo!

[@tedbrookins]

You can disable the treble circuit and wire in a passive tone. I never found the need for treble boost, so that’s what I do on all my active basses. Amazing instruments.

[@jackshittle]

I bought a used Modulus VJ4 (vintage jazz) w EMG's & EMG preamp. It has the Chechen fingerboard option which looks great. The 4 knobs are master volume, pup blend, bass, treble. I've wanted a Modulus since the early 90's & finally stumbled upon this used one that is in almost new condition (made in April of 1997) for only $1499. I never saw one at that price in that kind of condition so I went for it. I string it w/ D'Addario NYXL's and it is one amazing bass. In the past I've owned 2 Zon's, 3 Musicman's, Yamaha, Spector, Fender, Warwick Rockbass, Ibanez ATK. Interesting note; when I first joined my band I had a MM Sterling. Then bought a Zon Sonus Special IV. Then also bought a Fender USA made Jazz V & finally a Spector Rebop 5. After we stopped playing - we decided on playing a reunion show around 9 years later & at this point in my life (married, two kids) I only had the ATK 4 string. When we got together for our first practice the other 3 guys in my band started uncontrolably laughing (but a shocked laughter) asking "What the hell kind of bass is that? What happened? You always had great basses." So after being embarrassed, I had to burrow my friends MM Stingray for the actual reunion show. I kind of knew the ATK was crappy looking but figured at this point in my life, I'm just playing in my bedroom for fun - not thinking I would be back in a real venue playing a benefit show in Seattle in front of a packed house. I'm glad my friend offered up his MM. Lots of pictures were taken and posted online. I'm glad I had the MM strapped on instead of the ATK. Cheers!

[@LowEndLobster]

Very nice! I've always been curious about those VJs and the Genesis 5'ers. Hope to check em out one day! What a bunch o jerks hating on the ATK hahaha

[@jackshittle]

@@LowEndLobster Haha, right? The thing with my VJ is is that I'm never not excited/impressed when I pull it out of the gig bag & sit down with it. I've had it for almost 3 yrs now and still cannot believe how amazing it feels, sounds & looks. I still feel like this got mismarked at Guitar Center (it was in FL & I'm in NJ) at $1499. For me $1499 is not pocket change & is a lot of money. I called them and asked for close up pics. The guy e-mailed them to me right away & after further inspection I saw no damage, belt rash, rust, cracks etc. Everthing to my eye looked perfect which made me think "Why is this only $1499?" as they are typically $2100-$2500 used. So after about 60 seconds of thinking it over I bought it. I looked today on the Modulus website and it appears that if I bought one brand new that the base price is $4200. Then when you add the options mine has (gloss neck +$100, Chechen fingerboard +$400) it comes to $4800 (they don't offer EMG pups anymore so I'm not sure if that was an additional charge or not) which is way, way out of my league. I feel like a got a fantastic instrument at a managable price (cream/yellowish color wouldn't be my first choice although I don't mind it). Maybe a boss as GC said "What?! That was supposed to be listed at $2499 not $1499!!" haha. Also made me think if it was really $1499 then how much did they give the poor fellow that traded it/sold it to them? Cheers Lobster!

[@RoadKing-ky2bs]

Lobster: I absolutely love the beauty of that bass. The color is killer and I love orange or reddish orange (sunset) colored basses. It sounds fantastic. BTW when you said you were 10 years old in 1998 I had to laugh. I was 31 years old in 1998 😆

[@LowEndLobster]

Haha thanks Road King!

[@blacktipbassmods8837]

hey lobster, I’m a 5 stringer and a modder. the one thing that I noticed that most reviewers fail to mention in reviews is string spacing at the bridge and nut width. This may sound petty but it took me 20 years to find my “ neck specs “ and I find even manufacturers don’t understand the importance of including these specs in there descriptions. If you could add this in your. videos, I ( and maybe others) would appreciate it. I prefer a minimum of 18mm spacing and at least 45 mm nut for example Warwick offers a Broad neck that has a wider spacing , but no you tuber to my knowledge has ever mentioned that. sorry for rambling, may I need to start a bass spec channel. blessings

[@garrydhintz8017]

I feel you there. It definitely makes a difference when you switch spacing. I know I had an adjustment when I started playing Warwick.

[@claudi0barragan]

I noticed modulus offers a ""wide" string spacing wich is a six string neck with a 5 string bridge resulting in 21.5 string spacing at the bridge. I order My first Q5 and i loved it

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey Blacktip! Thanks man! I definitely try to mention it when I can but I definitely forget a bunch heh (I did here). Sorry!

[@blacktipbassmods8837]

@@LowEndLobster , thanx, manufacturers will give a nut width, but all forget width at 22 or 24. This is important to me because with those 2 specs I know what i can do at the bridge for spacing if I want to modify. I love your eclectic collection. I have one as well. You should do a deep dive into Cort’s “knock offs” some time. Elrick, Sandberg, Curbow ect. I’m still searching fot a Cort JP5. keep up the good work blessings Mark

[@Bass.Player]

I played a carbon fiber neck 4 nights a week for over a year in the 80's and what I did not like was that the neck was always cold and that gets old but the neck had no dead spots and did sound nice, however in the end nothing beats wood for feel. I can't remember for sure but I'm pretty certain it was a Modulus brand neck I put on my American Schecter with a solid Koa body (J-style)... These necks were sold to fit various brands at the time and were available before complete instruments were marketed. (If I remember right?)

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks BP! You're right, they both offered J necks standalone (kick myself for not buying one, went status instead. I don't regret the status, but the rarity of the Modulus would have been cool). They also did the full J builds, both modern and vintage.

[@davidpost4216]

When I was much younger and often playing in bars I lusted after Modulus basses but really couldn’t afford one. My main interest in them was because of the graphite neck which I thought enhanced the sound and helped it stay in tune. I even considered getting a new Peavey bass offered with a Modulus neck but even that was too expensive. Many years later I became totally obsessed with natural wood necks with no paint or lacquer. I love the feel and that my hand doesn’t stick to the neck when it gets sweaty. Nowadays the only basses I will ever consider buying are ones that have natural necks and now roasted maple necks are my new fetish. I never played a Modulus with sweaty hands but I imagine that neck would be sticky!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks for sharing, David! I do like a good natural feeling neck. I have a P-bass build video coming Sunday with a Fender roasted maple replacement neck and feels just like what you describe. I may have built my favorite P bass. Anyways, thanks for the great comment!

[@davidpost4216]

@@LowEndLobster Thanks for the reply. I am looking forward to seeing your video on the P-Bass with a new Fender roasted maple neck.

[@alessandroborghese8148]

My god this bass sounds incredibile, i've been watching demos of this bass everywhere and i'm really thinking on buying one! The only problem is that they are so expencive... Awesome video!! You have been extremely detailed about every kind of sound you can get with it and it just sounds enormous

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! I really enjoyed borrowing this one. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@buildingwithtrees2258]

I bought one in '05 from a guy who had custom ordered it, had all the paperwork. $1,000. It sits up on my shelf collecting dust now. I got it out last week, 1st time since '11. It really is worth what they charge. I'm just glad I got mine from a guy that fell on hard times, and reverb didn't exist then lol.

[@russellzauner]

What you're noticing is the fundamental frequency response of the overall platform is not altered, but enhanced, as the carbon fiber necks are generally less colorful or even fully transparent - they add to sustain and stiffness of the instrument which make the tonewoods that are present punch through with more clarity and separation but maintain all the beef and then some. This unit will soak up a lot of aggressive knob frobbing and always sound good. I have no idea what the long term issues or maintenance things might be, but If it's a completely non-wood neck (my heartfield DR5 has a laminate neck, but it feels - malleable, soft, plasticity under my thumb); Some finishes are like that too, though) then there might be some heel pocket working loose or bolts not keeping their torque due to difference in material expansion/contraction coefficients - I would guess the deep pocket helps keep it stable and anchored. I'm going to assume that the neck has inserts, being composite, and the body is literally bolted with actual bolts/machine screws instead of lag screws, and if it's captured well in the joint then I can see how it might be completely stable as the part where the bolts are doesn't get to move/flex as much..

[@russellzauner]

I'd really like to prove the first paragraph on a legit debug bench someday.

[@LowEndLobster]

That'd be really cool to explore. You see some CF hate on forums in regards to the neck's impact on the tone. I've had the opposite experience and have loved the CF necks that I've used and plan on having more in future projects.

[@bassimprovjams3772]

What a monster sound!!! Tha ks to the viewer for sending you this for us to see!!! Killer review lobster!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jeremy!

[@Dima-ek4zj]

2:48 "man look at this neck, it's beautiful" MAN, look at this cat, so beautiful!!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Hehe thanks Richard!

[@stefankamphausen6524]

Owner of a Q6 from ca 95 or 96 (bought it used from my bass teacher back then, not entirely sure) here. Never needed anything else since then. 🤘

[@thecrayondemo]

Killer bass, great review. Love the passion you have for the bass

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Crayon!

[@wtcornet]

Still love my 93 TBX 6 string, It has Barts with coil tapping.

[@claudi0barragan]

Coil tapping is the way to go

[@LowEndLobster]

Nice!

[@ivanmike1968]

I wish I still had mine. I might get another one if I find the right one at the right time at the right price. I always had a love-hate relationship with it. The B string is second to none. Even at the 12th fret it sounds like it could be the Estring or the a string. All the notes have a lot of fundamental. It’s easy to overdrive a cabinet with the B. There is a certain sound that you just can’t get rid of. I think the variable mid range control would have been a good addition on the one I had and I probably would have cut frequencies rather than boosted. You’ll never ever get lost in the mix but it is a bit difficult to get a more mellow or traditional tone. I live in New England and that base never went out of tune or needed any sort of adjustment. Literally brought my bass into an 80° establishment from a 0° car. Instantly in tune played fine the entire night. It is absolutely not a one trick pony by any means but it sounds like a modulus. That works for me 90% of the time except for those times when I really wanted another sound. I do miss mine. They make fantastic instruments.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ivanmike! Great comment! Thank you for sharing! The guy who lent me this bass sent me an offer that I'm considering hahaha. I agree a BQC with the mid freq control would be even sweeter and allow you to dial things in a bit more.

[@chicagobassplayer7175]

Other notable players of Modulus - Oteil Burbridge and Taylor Lee. I was fortunate enough to own two during but sadly had to sell them. Great basses and great review!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks for sharing Chicago! Hope one finds its way into your stable again :)

[@48streetrat]

Love the original Modulus basses, had a four string for awhile E string had booty. That's a dynamic sounding bass.👍

[@LowEndLobster]

Hell yeah! Thanks Richard!

[@patrick-verheij]

I once had Modules which could be its twin. My first thought was "what's my old bass doing there?". But I think my bass stayed in Europe after I sold it. Mine had awesome sound and playability. I eventually sold it because it was rather heavy and had too much neck dive to be comfortable on stage.

[@claudi0barragan]

Neck dive?!?!?! How so? Maybe an anatomical missmatch😉

[@patrick-verheij]

@@claudi0barragan I can't help it. My Modulus was a pretty heavy bass. The neck felt heavier than the body. The headstock tended to drop down and level the bass, even when using different straps and strap heights. I can only hope mine was an exception then.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Patrick! That's very interesting! Thank you for sharing

[@KozmykJ]

Happy 25 year owner of a Q5. Mine's a 1996 model. EMG DC40P5 pickups, 2-Band EMG BTS EQ, Gotoh bridge. The DC40P5s are like P-bass pickups inside that soap-bar cover Pre truss rod. That means the neck is 'right' for just one tension. 45 to 130 (135) sees the relief where I like it. Some sales guy tried to BS me “It's carbon fibre, it never bends” when I made enquiries at the vendor (a London bass shop) And Modulus about recommended string gauges … actually Modulus didn't reply. Lo and behold a year or so later … Voila - truss rods !!! Not the end of the world but a restriction nevertheless. It Did need the nut raising a little when it was new. Luthier built it up with powdered pencil lead and superglue. I nearly bought a Petersen SEI Bass on that shopping trip. Lovely lovely basses too, I often wonder … Still, no regrets though.

[@KozmykJ]

It's worth remembering that 'Modulus Graphite' pioneered this neck technology. Re the Carbon Fibre 'pattern'. The neck structure is 'regular' graphite woven matting, and it's largely hollow along it's length, so I'm told. It's just the outer skin that's 'marbled ' with little pieces laid at random angles for aesthetic effect.

[@marks5s603]

That neck...just Wow! Your vid makes a very strong case for saving up for one of these. Or selling off some gear for one...or a kidney, or bone marrow or something. Maybe I will have to return the kids braces. LOL!

[@LowEndLobster]

LOL Thanks Marks5s!

[@1977jazz]

Great analysis. My Q5 has the Aguilar OBP3 pre w Bart Soaps and I LOVE it! Currently running it through an Aguilar AG700 head and Aguilar SL212 cabinet. Ooof! It really is something special.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Joshua! That sounds killer! What color is yours?

[@1977jazz]

@@LowEndLobster Mine is the quilt maple sienna burst. Love your channel lobster!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! Ooon that sounds killer!

[@SoCalGuitarist]

Oof, that mid pot is reliably scratchy enough to be used as effects in songs. Likely needs replacing. Absolutely beautiful bass!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks! Hopefully just needs a cleaning

[@ChipsA17]

A modulus I actually like. Looks and sounds great

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ross!

[@ejjacinto5014]

Man! That sounds killer 💪🏿 Yeah the B string is clear and unique 😍😍

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks EJ!

[@jeffjones1143]

That's a beautiful instrument! The B string sounds tremendous. Very defined. Too bad it's a 35" scale. A little bit long for me.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jeff!

[@matthewnewman1446]

Nice funky lines! I have a Q5 from 2001 with Barts. Love love it. Always in tune, can play everywhere on the feet board, great sustain and of course that low B. Had to upgrade my amp and cabinet to allow the thickness to shine through clearly! Chasing the sound of Phil, Mike, Schools, and Oteil. I also have a G&L 2000 in the sunburst finish, looks just like what's on your wall? Fun video, thanks

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Matthew! Your Q5 sounds killer :). I think that's my Sabre, similar to a L2000 (hoping to snag a CLF L2K soon to match my L1K!)

[@richshields6692]

Wonderful bass. Another great sounding bass.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Rich!

[@brooksonly7337]

I had looked into a modulus many years ago. It was between modulus and a pedulla pentabuzz. I went with the pedulla. As far as barts and emg. Emg by far. You can put them on a broomstick and they sound good. Love the review lobster as always! Tony franklin fretless coming! Yessssss!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Brooks! Those Pedullas are slick! I had the chance to play one at Boston Guitar Center a looong time ago and it still haunts me hahaha. The Franklin is indeed, trying to line some things up for that ;). They're very popular basses!

[@brooksonly7337]

@@LowEndLobster thanks lobster. Dedicate or mention me when u review it please? Seeing as how i bug u about it for so long. Thanks lobster. Looove your channela

[@LowEndLobster]

Wait who are you again? ;P kidding my dude haha

[@SteveBlancoMusicianWarrior]

That's a sick bass. I need to try one! Thanks for the vid.🥂

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Steve!

[@thesnapperkeeper]

Thanks I’ve been wondering about Modulus Basses for years.I think Alex Webster from Cannibal Corpse played them as well

[@LowEndLobster]

THE SNAPPAH STRIKES! Thanks Mike! As a New Englander, when I see 'snapper' I just want to say 'SNAPPAH'

[@manlioyllades]

I own a Quantum 6 and I must say it's the best sounding of my 16 basses

[@Nakopeth]

I love modulus basses. Great job man!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Nakoa!

[@rubenriverarojas7910]

I've never heard the name before, sounds really cool

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ruben! Modulus basses are suhweeeet

[@bevinmodrak4997]

That B string reminds me of a Bosendorfer concert grand. I think you need to sell Pinky and get one of these ;-)

[@LowEndLobster]

The owner of this actually sent me an offer yesterday that I am very much considering.... hehehe. Pinky isn't going anywhere though ;P

[@bryancorley5068]

The diamond pattern is the wrap design of the carbon fiber this design leads to a stronger neck then just conventional carbon fiber!

[@Mr._Bassman97]

I own a q6 with EMG’s. To me the EMG’s crush barts on a modulus.

[@frederickdoyon]

I swear, EMG got so much hate for a while because it was trendy. Watching a lot of video lately and they always impress me. My Spector always did impress people at show also. EMG are solid at way they do. Not for everyone for sure but not bad at all.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Frederick, right!? I was never a fan of their lower end pickups in the past, but I'm a HUGE EMG fan now. I'm glad I've seen the light

[@frederickdoyon]

@@LowEndLobster I don't have much experience with their lower end but I didn't rate them too much in the past also. But these pickups in the video paired with that preamp gives so much versatility. The EMG DC got a very wide spectrum of frequency and with that mid sweep the possibility of tone shaping seem endless. Awesome bass, awesome video again. Now I want a modulus lol...

[@BrettAdelman125]

I just bought that exact Modulus!

[@ivanmike1968]

I really miss mine I had a Q5 with EMG DC’s in it.

[@LowEndLobster]

:) I hope you cross paths with another someday!

[@toddstropicals]

Those are killer basses!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Todd! Indeed!

[@mallexandre69]

Great great biggest Bass boutique !!!!!!! I love módulos Quantum basses !!!!! I like with aguilar obp3 + emg DC!!!!! Fantástic sound! Cheers from Brasil!!! Yeahh i love cats !!!!!more cats on your vídeos guy

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you M.A.O! They come and go as they please ;P, though Bebe seems to love being on camera (the fluffy one haha)

[@GozhouCS]

That's simply stunning! Great tight sound.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks B@ssiCS!

[@klaymeister]

More EMGs you like 😁 try out the CS humbuckers in something

[@LowEndLobster]

Moar EMG! We're actually going to be doing some sponsored EMG content too! We have a really fun/over the top project coming :)

[@TheBeardofDOOM]

That thing is slick!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks dude!

[@flipper2gv]

Something about Modulus necks make their basses sound almost hollow body. Almost bought one back in the day and regret it ever since.

[@WildWildWeasel]

I remember my brother irl bought one like this one from a friend of his thinking it was a guitar (he had no fucking clue back then xD) and I was like: "Uh...that's a bass dude .w." I had a Flea signature, sparkle red, but sold it to pay for my college expenses. It even had a Lane Poor pickup too.

[@LowEndLobster]

LOL folks don't know ;P. That's a funny story! Bummer you had to sell your Flea. Thanks for sharing, Jack! Great comment as always :)

[@bazazzzz4347]

Not a fan of carbon fiber necks. But this one sounds good. Its body resembles the Peavey Cirrus body...

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Bazaz! Indeed I see some similarities in the design between this and the Cirrus

[@coolaxe-dw4840]

Age and Old are two different actualities 💫

[@LowEndLobster]

The truth! Well said

[@canadulce3697]

That bass and I share the same year :)

[@LowEndLobster]

Sweet :)

[@jamesmarkham7489]

While very cool. Idk if it's 4k cool. Sounds great tho

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks James!

[@basscubs]

Any chance you have tried G.Gould basses yet ? Very interested in a demo.

[@2cv666]

those were excellent basses ..i wonder why they had to end production and go off the business ...now that basses are extremely expensive. You should review ZON basses , great basses even in the less expensive line ..Salutations !

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you Patricio! I think they still make these. I would LOOOOVE to try a Zon. One day!

[@garrydhintz8017]

I almost bought one. I'm still regretting not going after it.

[@claudi0barragan]

That is quite the story. Not for me to be told though. They are at full force for some time now as a two man company.

[@Metalbass10000]

Nice bass! I love my EMG BQC System preamp in my main bass, paired with the EMG PJ-X pickup set. Don't forget the added versatility of the 2 dip switches in the control cavity, which gives you four different treble curves to choose from,. This determines how you are affecting the treble portion of the tone, including some upper mid frequencies, when you adjust the treble pot. It actually does have a noticeable effect on the tone of the bass and I really like that

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Metalbass! I do love that about the EMG preamps, the treble dip switches!

[@ampthebassplayer]

Who else giggles any time they hear the words "swamp ash"?

[@LowEndLobster]

Huehuehueh, I mean with summer around the corner it's definitely going to be a problem with the increased humidity... wait what are we talking about again? ;P

[@stainless641]

Carbon fiber necks on a bass are the best in my opinion.

[@LowEndLobster]

Indeed, I love em!

[@paulsteezo1772]

KLD THOUSAND LADIES DANCING! That's what Modulus nicknamed the mosaic pattern in the back of the neck!!! Sorry I sold all of mine....

[@chrismorris3897]

Awesome sauce!

[@triconte4418]

Hey Lob... How do you deal with the "thin G" problem of the stingrays?

[@LowEndLobster]

Great question! I've never really had much of a problem with thin sounding G's on my Stingrays. Not sure if I just don't notice or it's the strings/setup that I've applied. Let me know what you think in my Stingray videos! I always appreciate a fresh take :)

[@bobdiaz204]

Lobster have u ever had the chance to review the MG dessert bass ?

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey Bob! I haven't checked out any MGs yet but hopefully that will change :)

[@aodhanodonnell2148]

I love your cat

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you

[@bassistdc]

Hey, when are you reviewing a Fodera Monarch 4?

[@LowEndLobster]

Oh boy... you had to ask hehehe... I uhh... sort of... have one?... kind of... it's not what you think... uhh... you're all going to hate me ahahaha

[@bassistdc]

@@LowEndLobster I have a Fodera Monarch 4 Yin Yang standard series II on order. Due in August and would love to get your opinion on one.

[@TheGAMEGod_YT]

LET’S GOOOOOOOOO

[@LowEndLobster]

WOOOOOO!

[@steveschenker1380]

So you're going to award that bass as a prize to 98th commenter, right Lobster?

[@LowEndLobster]

WINNER ;P

[@claudi0barragan]

Modulus ranks on top of boutique basses elite. IMHO. My 3 Q5 WIDE sports Bartolini quad coil PU's. Wich makes them versatile as Unique. People just don't know how superior carbon fiber is . Only multilaminated necks stands a chance against it.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Claudio! I agree, CF necks got a bad wrap and got tied to a bunch of (IMO) incorrect adjectives like 'sterile', 'lifeless', etc. That couldn't be further from the truth!

[@lummond]

Wait till he finds out that there are dip switches to change the treble knob frequency to one of four settings. Best preamp there is, and there's a passive version that works with all bass pickups.

[@firstnamelastname500]

This is the best type of carbon fiber in my opinion, its called "forged" carbon fiber.

[@claudi0barragan]

Indeed it is. If i recall correctly, carbon fiber layers are set by hand in a cast and then " cooked" in an " oven"

[@LowEndLobster]

Very interesting! Thank you for that info!

[@unicornwarhammer1926]

@@claudi0barragan that is 100% correct. it was sandwiched in a mold that had physical pressure applied via clamping bolts and then cooked under pressure in an autoclave

[@marcoesposito8753]

I've seen Dave Ellefson use this bass

[@vincentmorelli1013]

Alex Webster too

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Marco! It's so cool to hear about so many artists that used this bass (that I didn't know used em!)

[@davidonguitar]

Good grief I would love one of these.

[@jrbass62]

I see you have an over abundance of basses there, I'm willing to help you out and take a few off your hands...

[@LowEndLobster]

;P

[@kurdtx27]

Sorry if it out of topic, what do you think about yamaha trbx505?

[@LowEndLobster]

No problem James! I definitely plan on checking out more Yamahas soon :)

[@McBurnside6380]

This was one of those bases that I passed on in the nineties. I loved the sound, but couldn't get past the awkward looks. For example they all seemed to have quilted maple tops, which I think is just kind of ugly.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jusztin!

[@twiglurid666]

have you ever tried the earl slick p basses from guitarfetish.com ?

[@LowEndLobster]

I have not, though we built a bass using parts from that site (Project Surf n Turf). I definitely plan on trying one at some point :)

[@PhilosophicalCat]

Hey Lobster, how does this one compare to your Dingwall NG3?

[@LowEndLobster]

Great question! The CF neck definitely has a different feel as opposed to the maple on the Dingwall. It's hard to describe. I like my Dingwall more electronically because of the mods that I've done, and if this Q5 was mine (considering buying it lol), I'd potentially mod it as well to add a smidge more flexibility (reversible mods of course! would never permanently mod a rare beauty like this).

[@PhilosophicalCat]

@@LowEndLobster thanks for your response! It's hard to beat your Dingwall with the 6-way switch and East preamp. I was amazed at how good a stingray tone it did. I guess my real question is: how does the low B of the Modulus compare to the 37" scale of the Dingwall's B?

[@albundy2239]

Well, I certainly want a Modulus 😂 But my bank account...? Nope 😉

[@LowEndLobster]

Haha I hear that ;P

[@Mantismd]

Does this one have a Truss Rod?