The 12 UGLIEST Basses of ALL TIME | The SBL Podcast Ep. 153

[@pCeLobster]

Smartest decision ever bringing Ian into this channel. Such a good energy.

[@andyronayne7947]

And Ian is an awesome talent.

[@mattcheckleybass]

Bought a Bongo today. Oh cool, new video from SBL.... **gets attacked** EDIT: Just noticed the Sphynx cat in the thumbnail. I have one of those too. I'm coming for you Scott and Ian !

[@Kakker71]

The Bongo is a great bass. Had a 5 string stealth black for many years, but sold it eventually as I play in a bang with a more vintage precision kind of sound. Never had a bass with more punch though!

[@jonsidell3338]

You’re going to love it. They sound huge.

[@Revanant-qw5kt]

It's ugly but in like a really cool way

[@aaaaa111aaaaa]

Have fun with your toilet Seat. Jokes aside, i Hope it Serves you well

[@sabre242]

The tone is huge, no one can take that away!

[@timd801]

I was in college in the late 80’s and there wasn’t really anything I wanted more than a Spector NS-2. I think they were around $2500 at the time, which was way beyond my student means. I did, however, have access to the family business - a large woodworking shop. With help from Dad, I set about copying a Spector as best as I could, going off pictures from Bass Player Magazine. I bought the active Bartolini PJ set and all the hardware from a music store in Atlanta called Metro Music. There was a clerk there who was also a bass builder, and he gave me a lot of advice. His name was Greg Curbow. Dad, the shop, Metro Music, and Greg Curbow are gone now, but I still have that bass that we all came together to create.

[@WakizashiSabre]

Great you got something which resembles the ones you loved. Lovely story, mate.

[@chrisgardiner5952]

great story man that bass must be priceless to you.

[@robertmessing6846]

My Berger Story. In a moment of desperation on day 1 of basic tracks (in 89) I urgently needed a bass while my Sting Ray & P-Bass were both getting serviced. I ended up borrowing a Steinberger from a local musician in town (from what I was told it actually belonged to Ned) once we plugged it in the engineer, producer, and myself were all blown away by how it sounded. So much so that the next day I called my friend who's shop I knew carried them and bought it over the phone. I had my folks drive the 2 hours from NJ up to Woodstock to deliver it to me in the studio. Over the years I took a significant amount of crap over how it looked but I never cared. I still own it and It plays great and it records even better. And yes as a bonus it is very easy to carry around. Ned Steinberger knows what he is doing and has made some amazing instruments.

[@andyronayne7947]

Agree 100%. I have a sub-100 serial, 1st year production L2 and I will never sell it.

[@philippes1987]

You guys forgot the Danelectro Longhorn bass!

[@ZenBasses]

Totally agreed ...it's a 13

[@SrTubular]

I was, "ok, the Longhorn must be next", after every mention. Surprised it wasn't on this list

[@MauriceEscargot]

To me the Longhorn looks weird in pictures but pretty cool on stage.

[@NVaughan81]

Yep, worse than all the others

[@electricdawn2258]

I actually give the Longhorns a 2. I really love the design, the sound and everything else about them. :D

[@paddydaddyo]

So, the Steinberger Bass was the original series, before the XL-2 shown (which I have owned not one, but two white models over the years). There was an H-1 and an H-2 (with one or two DiMarzio Model One passive “H” for “High impedance“ pickups), and an L-1 and L-2 (“L” for “Low impedance” pickups). Most people just throw L-2 out there for all the early series basses, but that’s incorrect. The basses were a carbon fiber blend (identified as a proprietary “Steinberger Blend” at the time), and had no truss rods. The pivot plate for the strap stays EXACTLY where you put it, so the bass is where you want at all times. Incredible sustain and harmonic structure, ZERO dead spots, perfect balance, and incredible ease of transport. Ned was a genius on a level with Leo, and his bass design was the first REAL original effort since the Fender Precision 30 years prior. I have owned many, still own 3, and only need one … you really looking to get an XL-2A Ian?

[@markdaniels7174]

To me it’s quintessentially “80s New Wave.” I love it and I’d like one, if only because Geddy Lee is my hero. Can’t imagine it ever being my main axe, though.

[@cammy_moth]

I absolutely adore the bongo! It’s polarising for sure but it’s been my dream bass since I first saw it. Goes to show a brave and unique design can really win someone’s heart (or hurt it as Ian said when he saw Myung had switched to it haha)

[@CC-hg9un]

🤮

[@bulo-.]

@@CC-hg9un Bongos are cool af I don't care lol

[@DrKFC69]

The Bongo actually looks great as a 6 string

[@MrBeachMadness]

I had a White Bongo in my ABBA tribute band for a couple of years. It started a few conversations about how I looked like an alien with a death ray trying to hide in the back of a pop band. Some of these basses are in the French Bulldog area of relative beauty.

[@itsratso.]

hahahaa well put.

[@metallsnubben]

You'd think ABBA of all contexts would be the place to bring in strangely shaped string instruments!

[@MrBeachMadness]

@@metallsnubben You'd think ...but no. It was a bone of contention the entire time. I was actually kind of relieved when I swapped it for a Stingray. The tone was far too Hi-Fi for ABBA, and the 18 volt pre was just annoying.

[@metallsnubben]

@@MrBeachMadness _Sound-wise_ I can definitely see it! Rutger sure wasn't playing a Fodera!

[@CrimsonQuandary]

No Warwicks on this list?? Also, a lot of people hate on the Ibanez BTB basses, but I love them.

[@mk.5706]

The very phallic Warwick Corvette should have been on this list for sure.

[@cd0u50c9]

BTB at least has a presence, the Soundgear basses are godawful for having no personality...

[@BretElkington]

@@mk.5706 Maybe, but the Buzzard would simply HAVE to edge it out.

[@ideitbawxproductions1880]

Love my BTB6, I don't care what anyone says, I'm never getting rid of mine! Also, a little surprised the Warwick Alien acoustics didn't make it on the list. I love them, but I could see people thinking that they just look, well, alien

[@Stringboiler]

I have Warwick Corvette $$ 5. I know what you're thinking of, but it's JUST A BAVARIAN SAUSAGE 😁😆

[@petercrawford5085]

Warwick Buzzard. JayDee thingy that Mark King used to play.

[@PjRjHj]

The Jaydee Supernatural Series i is pretty darn ungainly, but I think Jaydee got the proportions right with the Series iii, the George Anderson, and the Calibas

[@jamesmorganearley]

In the late 90's, I worked for a wholesale musical accessories distributor. Greg Curbow was one of my clients. He was funny and sweet, and brutally sarcastic. I miss that guy. He offered to build me a bass at cost, but I never took him up on it. One of my biggest bass regrets.

[@chrischilton8455]

I'm with you on this one, Ian. The Antigua finish Jazz is freaking beautiful.

[@hyperplayability6290]

5 minutes of unadulterated Bongo slander My day has been made 🤣 I give the Bongo a 11/10

[@itsratso.]

bongos are the most polarizing bass in history. if I had a nickel for everybody who thinks saying toilet seat is clever 😂

[@hyperplayability6290]

@@itsratso. You'd be able to buy a bongo! Personally to me it looks like something you'd see at circus, silly red balloon shape and everything

[@strat0871]

@@itsratso. Exactly, Bongo bass looks like a toilet seat, ugliest bass for sure..

[@itsratso.]

I have a friend who loves bongos like me but says they look like a bass from the 80s for cokeheads

[@JLeppert]

The reason why the bongo base is polarizing is because it sounds incredible.

[@adamgreenhill110]

Spectors are beautiful! I bought one because of the looks, it just happened to also sound good. Such a cool and sleek curve

[@PjRjHj]

Agreed

[@Surge_LaChance]

Talkbass is extremely sensitive. They're also extremely biased on certain topics.

[@ibassnote]

Geddy started his relationship with Wal for Power Windows, I believe.

[@stereoroid]

Geddy didn’t seek out Wal: producer Peter Collins brought his own one to the studio, and Geddy ended up using it on the whole album before ordering the black one for himself. The red “horny” Wal came later.

[@SeidellNorbel]

Miss my two Bongos that I sold a while ago. 1 for perfection! I'd buy another flying toilet seat if I had a chance!

[@ArielIsaac8111]

Dude I love the bongo shape so much though 😭😂

[@jamesatkin9412]

Where's the Fodera single cut? That's up there with the Bongo for ultimate grimness to my eyes.

[@jonessperandio]

Most single-cut basses are hideous.

[@joshuabrice3800]

I agree. Single cuts are ugly.

[@rws10923]

Yeah, I'm surprised they listed the Wal and Rickenbacker here, which are both beautiful IMO (though it's fair to criticize the Rickenbacker as overly busy), but there's no Fodera Singlecut or the *shudder* Warwick Thumb Singlecut.

[@Jesseface94]

I'd say there's not enough good-looking single cut basses and too many where the body reaches a third of the way up the neck lol

[@davidpggarrett]

That was on my list, too. Yuck!

[@ccbassc]

I have definitely heard of Antigua's referred to as "phlegm-burst" now it's what pops in my head Everytime I see one.

[@marcel-jt3dy]

I call them Zombie burst.

[@hirokokueh3541]

imo it would look much better without the matching pickguard, like Ibanez Champagne Burst looks much better

[@webb264]

FYI...from the VoxShowroom website: The unique "coffin" shaped Phantom body style was developed for Vox in 1961 by the London Design Centre and the bass was originally produced by Vox in the UK. A later version was manufactured in Italy for Vox by Eko. Phil Volk played the UK version.

[@ianchisholm9260]

Friend of mine bought a Vox phantom 12 string in 1969 ( then removed the drone strings ) .. Love the finish on the Warwick that Scott’s holding

[@jacobpawelk218]

Mr. Ian Allison, I sir bought an electric blue Cort Carbow from you at Mars Music.

[@unduloid]

I have owned a Cort Curbow, but I never heard of Carbow. Is it perhaps car-shaped?

[@benjaminsandeen9241]

Maybe this is the reason he was selling it.... :P

[@krzychood]

I love the bongo, the only thing that sucks about this instrument is the price.

[@gkarbee1273]

My main bass for last 12 years is a 1988 Japanese made Fender P-Bass Lyte. Tobacco Sunburst.. I put passive Dimarzio pickups in it.. The thing stays in tune forever, is so lightweight and easy on my back and it sounds quiet and awesome! Sound guys love it and so do I.. I really never considered it "ugly" by any stretch.

[@PjRjHj]

They ain't at all ugly

[@omarmoreira86]

Nice to see Scott without gloves! :) Here is my list. MM Bongo - 4 Wal Mk1 - 2 Ovation Magnum Mk1 - 9 Gibson RD - 4 Rickenbacker - 3 Antigua Finish - 5 Steinberger XL2 - 8 Vox - 10 MM Big Al - 9 Fender Performer - 9 Spector NS2 - 3 Curbow Petite - 7

[@teresaravenshaw5477]

You missed the Danelectro Longhorn bass - the single worst affrontery to bass design I can think of, it's a solid 10 without a doubt. It's so bad, it's heretical to the concept a bass design. If I believed in demons and were bequeathed a Longhorn, I'd hire a necromancer to resurrect the person who gave it me so I could end them myself. I'd then hire a priest in order to exorcise the Longhorn of the demons inside it. I'd then post the bass to someone I absolutely detest.

[@electricdawn2258]

Could you please hate me and then gift me the Longhorn? I'd take that in a heartbeat. I really like them. :D

[@JLeppert]

Necromancers are demons... Probably not the point.

[@force263]

Now I’m definitely buying a longhorn.

[@mikeswarbrick128]

I tour with a Jerry Jones longhorn VI regularly, I love em

[@iagobroxado]

I love how they look 😂

[@JoFrankHe]

Geddy played a Steinberger in the 80ies. Saw him in Frankfurt, Germany.

[@DaddyStoat]

The Bongo is a curious looking beast, for sure. But they sound immense and feel great. And the looks grow on you. :) At one point, I owned four of them, and loved them all.

[@kevinmauch5622]

Someone has probably already pointed this out but the Vox Phantom bass originally came out around 1964.

[@ianchisholm9260]

Friend of mine bought a Vox 12 string in that shape around 1969 .. ( he took 6 of the strings off like Johnny Winter did to his Fender 12 at Woodstock )

[@rossmiller7778]

As the proud owner of a white XL2 Stienberger Bass. Was my main instrument for years. If you want a big attitude piano-like tone, this is for you. No dead spots lowest action you can imagine. The neck is Jazz bass width. It can mellow up with the bridge PU for nice finger articulation. But it wants to clank.

[@kevinnewsham7934]

Sorry, but the Big Al looks almost identical to an old Electra westone bass I had in the mid eighties. It had a panel on the back with effects cartridges that could be snapped in the routing, and controlled by switches and pots on the front.it was called the outlaw bass, nearly identical, all mahogany body and neck, and sounded like a rickenbacker.

[@tiltil9442]

Unreal! Want one!

[@user-uv6ye9qe7f]

We need to talk about the non reverse thunderbird. I love it even though I know it's hideous. Let's have you dissect it in the next round.

[@Andreas_K_III]

How is Rickenbacker even on the ugly list? It’s one of the most iconic and beautiful bass shapes 🙌🏻 Any day I would prefer the RB over a jazz or preci bass

[@warehausrecordingstudiollc6648]

I beleive that Geddy is palying the WAL bass in the 'Time Stand Still" video.

[@och70]

Had to double check that. You're correct. My first thought was a Steinberger, but it's the black Wal.

[@markdaniels7174]

Also the “Big Money” and “Show Don’t Tell” videos.

[@k.h.1587]

Geddy played wal basses from power windows all the way to roll the bones. But actually the show don't tell video was the jazz bass, even though the wal was what was on the recording

[@TwoBadBassist]

Super fun! Thanks for the video!

[@devinebass]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@andrewpinner3181]

Thanks guys, great fun as always !

[@devinebass]

Cheers!!

[@Bassdriver]

Wal Basses are actually beautiful. Especially the headstock - GOD, I love it. They get a 1.5 - 2 on your scale from me, although I do prefer the Mk2. I also like the Steinberger - although I prefer full-bodied headless basses (like a Status - I have a Washburn by Status S-1000 with Bartollinis and I absolutely LOVE it). The XL gets, say, a 3.5, maybe a 4. It's ok - not beautiful, not ugly, but really cool. The Rick - are you kidding me? Absolutely iconic design with some Art Deco influences. 2-2.5 for me. And the Antigua (I call it slimeburst) is my 2nd favourite Fender finish (after black/black/maple, like JJ Burnel's P-Bass) which is absolutely beautiful. An Antigua Jazz with maple board (I prefer maple on Fenderoids) and rectangular pearloid markers easily gets a 2. As for basses I *hate* visually - yup, the Bongo. Easily 9.5 out of 10 on fugliness scale. God, I can't stand these things. And the BMW contribution isn't surprising - remember the absolutely disgusting E65 7-series came out around the same time and might have been designed by the same people. The Big Al is one ugly bastard, too. 7.5 out of 10. The Ovation - UGH. What were they thinking?! 8.5-9/10. Same with the Vox. Horrid, horrid idea. I have no strong feelings about the rest though.

[@andrewpappas9311]

I was surprised by the mention of the Rick as well, I have a 4003S that I bought back in the summer of 2020 and it's been my number one bass for recording and stuff as well as what I play in my band and it's definitely one of the best basses I've ever played. Not to mention that it's also up there with the P Bass, Jazz Bass, StingRay and Gibson Thunderbird as being one of the most iconic basses of all time as well as how versatile it could be (been used from rock players like Paul McCartney, Geddy Lee and Roger Glover from Deep Purple to metal with Lemmy and Cliff Burton to everything in between) so it definitely baffles me that there are some people that think it looks hideous lol

[@bassandhotrods]

The NS2 is my favorite bass for many reasons, not the least of which because I've been battling chronic elbow tendinitis for several years. The NS shape repositioned my right arm just enough to stop aggravating my issue and saved my playing career

[@koravable]

Ian’s got the best taste

[@B.IN.MY.HEART.RECORDS]

Ibanez EHB ergonomic bass has to be the ugliest for me. Followed closely by the Warwick Buzzard.

[@jasontrebilcock6496]

Part of this feels like a "Pick on Jason's bass choices" video. Bongo? Check. Love my Bongo. I'd love to get another one...but, they're kinda 'spensive. Y'know? Steinberger? Check, check, and check. (Have to account for all three basses I own.) Wal? Never owned one nor have I played one...but, I have desired one ever since Geddy picked one up in the 80's. (Btw, what's with picking on Geddy's bass choices?) Rickenbacker? Similar to the Wal, I've never owned/played one...but, yeah, I want one. Or two. As far as ranking/grades goes, I'd give the Bongo a 1...the Steinbergers...well, yeah, they're not exactly pretty instruments...and I'll leave it at that, for now. Side note: Color me slightly amused by Ian's hat with the Minnesota flag. Not sure how I feel about the new flag yet. Kind of wish it had a little more color...perhaps a little red, similar to the MN Aurora logo.

[@geepike]

They tackled Bongos, Steinberger, Rickenbacker, Wal, Spector, and Cort Curbow. Me: “You sure about that?!” Lol Granted Steinberger is kinda bland and the Wal in question looks like it was made from an old door…but I feel like those companies are some of the coolest innovators, though Fender purists will definitely disagree.

[@OwiggumX]

I know this is a bass channel, but I'm a bit of a car nerd as well. While we are speaking of ugly designs that ended up growing on us, the original Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen Touareg were absolutely hideous to me at first, but I now prefer that look over the newer, "nicer looking" ones. This resonates with me more than basses, which I definitely know a nice looking one when I see it, but I don't find anything particularly ugly about them like I do with automobiles. Bass is more about the sound than the aesthetics to me, whereas cars almost have a face and a soul, and I can relate "ugliness" to them much more naturally.

[@MeatballCereal]

Myung played a Tung Wingbass, made by a former luthier at Tobias, not a Tune. Easy mistake.

[@ifgwelf]

And he also used Tobias basses for awhile.

[@OdhranWAR]

The bongo was my first serious bass, was firmly in the this thing is the most stupid looking thing I’ve ever seen, and kept going on about how much I hate it, slowly realised I was spending way too much time talking about it and then realised I actually love it. Mostly play my P bass these days but my bongo gets a bit of love for my covers gig, super versatile

[@lebassdesign4850]

Violin bass and the Danelectro Longhorn 🤢

[@PjRjHj]

Absolutely

[@d3lt452]

​@@PjRjHj absolutely not!

[@davidclaassen2448]

Owned an RD Artist. ..the (playing position) RH switch is bass boost (down) and bright mode. The LH switch is Compression (up) and Expansion (down). Drove pedals crazy. The bass also acted as a big radio receiver for CB signals...not good when your gig is right off the motorway in the 80"s. Great bass though...sorry I sold it on.

[@copasetic1]

Scott’s hate on the Bongo is peculiar when you consider that his most often featured bass looks like someone shit on a p-bass and then threw it down a rocky hillside.

[@cd0u50c9]

THIS.

[@speelbergoMF]

That has nothing to do with body shape

[@rhoodj]

The Bongo Stealth black 6 HH is an unbeaten king. The first choice😅❤❤

[@matthewwithanm]

The whole time Scott was talking about these "ugly" basses, I couldn't help but think of that episode where he talked about how much he loved his ugly dog 😂

[@rome8180]

I'm amazed that anyone could ever find the Rickenbacker ugly. For me, it's the most beautiful instrument ever made.

[@eldoctordeltac]

I own a 4003 jetglo, and every single gig I play, I get comments about how beautiful is that bass. I Don’t think there’s a more beautiful bass ever.

[@markdaniels7174]

I’m with you, and so are Scott & Ian. It’s the best! Haters are crazy; bring them on.

[@scottdeakes8494]

I hate them. Especially in punk rock. Sorry.

[@eldoctordeltac]

@@scottdeakes8494 it’s ok, man. I hate the Jazz bass, don’t ask me why ;)

[@customimprovement]

Purple five string fretless bongo player chiming in. I love it!

[@WilDBeestMF]

As a former TB user (note, former) you're not even WRONG about that, Ian. We were not allowed to draw the obvious connection between the Bongo and a toilet seat. It just wasnt allowed and your post would get eaten. It must have been seriously widespread. 😆 That forum is Boomertown, though. That's your explanation.

[@CrockettsCabin]

Yes. I was there too. Also a former member.

[@raybirdman]

So, the Bongo came out in 2003 and was designed by DesignworksUSA which is owned by BMW as you’ve said. Now you say that like it’s a good thing, but this is the same studio that helped design the E65 7 series and the E85 Z4. Go ahead and check them out. They weren’t very good at that time.

[@munkygrip1977]

Honourable mention for the original Warwick Adam Clayton Sig model. Like a reverse Explorer shape and simply hideous!

[@wolfwarren6376]

My first bass was a Vox Phantom. The originals were made in the early 60s in England, then by about 1965 they moved to Italy. Mine is from 1965/1966, during the Italian production run. They’re very unique, extremely subby for single coils, and surprisingly comfortable. However, they neck dive like crazy, the neck is very long for being a 34” scale length, and the pickup selector only allows you to run either the front pickup or the back pickup. Quirks and all, it’s actually a very fun instrument to play, and if you can re-balance the front strap button so that the neck dive is less, it’s actually a pretty comfortable instrument to play as well. Be warned, though, the reproductions don’t hold a candle to the original. If you want a good, modern recreation, go to Phantom Guitarworks. He makes versions of the instrument based on the UK version of the Phantom guitars and basses, and from all accounts, they’re quite good.

[@peterschraubzwinge6102]

Bongo looks great.

[@devinebass]

They're a real love/hate bass!

[@pauledwdz]

I don't like the look of Stingrays with two pickups either

[@basscoup]

I have one but agree - single HH looks butter

[@robertmessing6846]

The 2 pickup Musicman Bases were not Stingrays. I believe they were called the Sabre. Not that it matters. They were not nearly as popular as the Stingray.

[@MrBassflute]

Greg Curbow was one of the greatest bass builders of all time. His designs were innovative, and acoustically, electronically, and ergonomically fabulous. And I can’t believe you have that on this list. And there’s so many bases you missed. What about Wishbass?

[@BassPlayerNcl]

Surprised the aluminium necked Kramer and Travis Bean basses from the 70s didn’t appear on this list!

[@Nanooky]

A friend had one of those Kramers. Very heavy and not fun to play. Probably why they keep moving between pawn shops.

[@andyronayne7947]

They’re gorgeous basses imho. Just wish they weren’t so expensive.

[@andyronayne7947]

I owned a 1st year 5-string Bongi and imported it from a seller on TalkBass. Great bass, but not for me. I also own a 1st year of production Steinberger L2 with a sub-100 serial number. The early L2 basses had a plug in leg rest. With fresh double ball end strings it sounds like a grand piano. The neck is very similar to a modern Warwick bass. It is heavy on a strap, but effortless to play and the tone and sustain are to die for. So much ergonomic design was applied. The rear mounted output Jack makes complete sense and the screws holding the boomerang strap holder and the battery cover are designed to be turned using nothing more than a coin. The two ends of the body are designed to allow the bass to be propped up without using a guitar stand. The high ratio turners are incredibly good too, and the tuning is rock solid and insanely stable. I check the tuning often, but the last time I had to tune in was 2008 when I put new strings on it.

[@klausgarten2050]

i missed the JENS RITTER BASSES! 😁The Wal bass is so nice!

[@stuckinarabbithole]

I too was surprised there was not a Ritter included in this list.

[@utkuhancer4206]

Great video again. Waiting for city pop

[@BenMifsudJoslin]

Ibanez EDA basses by a COUNTRY MILE

[@VeitLehmann]

Yep, definitely missing from the list. They might be incredibly comfortable, they have a unique sound, but they just look so aweful that I'd never play one in public.

[@tiltil9442]

Aria Sinsonido following rather closely

[@VeitLehmann]

@@tiltil9442 Oh yes, I didn't think of this one. But another headless Japanese beauty without meat on the ribs comes to my mind: Westone The Rail Bass! Ugly, but brilliant, but... ugly AF

[@VeitLehmann]

​@@tiltil9442 Oh, absolutely, I didn't think of this one. And another headless Japanese beauty without meat on the ribs comes to my mind: Westone The Rail Bass. Ugly, but brilliant, but... ugly AF!

[@metallsnubben]

I expected what a further google revealed was called the EHB (headless). But the EDA was a real jumpscare haha

[@Macna333]

Outstanding episode! Love you guys. Thank you

[@christophlucke5654]

Alright: MM Bongo - solid 9 WAL MK1 - 2 (but the wood looks like a Grandma Kitchen from the 80s) Ov. Mg MK 1 - 10 Gibson - 7 Rickenbacker - 9 Fender JB Antigua - 6 Steinberger XL2 - 5 Vox Phantom - 10 EB MM Big Al - 8 Fender Performer - 8,5 Spector NS2 - 1 - The Body is maybe a bit too streched but its ok Curbow Petite - 5

[@christophlucke5654]

Unpopular Opinion: I hate the Jazz Bass Body. I have (had) a Sire Jazz Bass and it was so chunky and i disliked it so much that i took it apart and let someone make myself a custom Body with P-Bass Shape and for Jazz Bass Pick ups. Its now soo much better. It feels better and it looks better. Althougt it was a ***** of work and yet its not perfect xD.

[@-processdrone-]

@@christophlucke5654 I love all the chrome appointments on a Jazz Bass, but that knee rest curve is just in the wrong place, It takes a bass which is already a long reach instrument, and pushes the neck an extra 2 inches away to make sure you have to stretch your arm further and get a repetitive strain injury if you play low notes sitting down. It's not truly ugly , but it is an ergonomic disaster.

[@christophlucke5654]

@@-processdrone- Yeah i guess you have a Point. Its not ugly. Especially looking at The Mike Lull Basses. They look stunning. But ergonomically its just not my cup of tea. :)

[@bassplayer2011ify]

Spector NS2 is a -1 in my book. They are so comfortable to play. Smaller body so i dont feel pike I’m reaching over a table to play like on a slab body. And they sound amazing. If ypu are bassist and you want to cut through the mix you have two options. A Stingray or an NS2.

[@zorrgal]

Gibson Victory and Grabber,

[@ChurchOfTheHolyMho]

Mars Music: I regret not picking up a Yamaha RGX-TT D6 for $350 w/hardshell case when they went under. Can you imagine that as a very first guitar? My coworker picked up the non D6 version, and I played a few notes on it - and immediately realized my mistake. lol

[@kimballowen-brown4771]

You two guys are the best co host ever. It’s not work uou enjoy it way to much 👍🏻

[@BobbyColorado]

Fender Aerodyne, Ibanez BTB, Ibanez Ergodyne, ESP F models, Conklin basses, Gibson Thunderbird, Dan electro longhorn

[@theonecalledvino8165]

I for one cannot say anything about any of these basses, they are all above anything I could afford. But those Czech made Spectors are amazing, The Cubrow was cool but too small for me.

[@bassvapegeeza4431]

Scott....are you insane?!? The Wal is one of the most gorgeous looking, as well as sounding, basses in the history of basses! Love your work guys

[@AnonYmous-vu1lw]

The ovation comes equipped with a gum guard for when anyone in the crowd rightly punches you in the face.

[@alexplorer]

Several trends become apparent by the end of this: *Older models are more accepted for their eccentricities than new models. They are almost literally grandfathered in by virtue of having been around so long that we haven't known a time when they weren't in existence being played by people we admired, whereas newer things are rejected for being something that hasn't been tried before. (Examples of this phenomenon can be found in just about any art form. For example, note how there is a generation who completely love the Star Wars prequels because those were the movies they grew up with, whereas O.G. fans largely rejected those films at the time and are mostly ambivalent at best today.) *Many of the bass models are getting boosted or knocked on the basis of one or two salient traits. For example, the slanted pickup on the Curbow really skews (no pun intended) any assessment of the overall design. I realize other traits were mentioned, but none alone stands out so much as that one out-of-place feature. *Most of the models are getting reviewed in sweeping terms rather that on just that instrument. For example, the finish alone can make an instrument ugly just by being a poor fit for the style. Sometimes what's "ugly" is just a mismatch of two perfectly good features (e.g., the wrong headstock for the body), neither of which is "ugly" on its own, only in context. *It matters whether form and function are in agreement. I'm a big fan of Steinberger instruments in general, and especially the idea of minimalist designs. The original Steinbergers worked because they weren't trying to make a statement so much as Ned just reimagined the instrument in terms of essentials (e.g., the headstock wasn't essential; wood wasn't essential; and so on). In full disclosure, I'm actually far more of a guitarist than a bass player; I have several Steinberger guitars and none of their basses, but I have a Westone Rail bass that comes from Steinberger's peak era and aesthetic. No one would say it's "ugly," just that it's weird. Non-musicians always want to know what it is, and musicians enjoy that the "look" actually results in its sound (i.e., the pickup slides along the rails that form the body). The Vox Phantom is a fail because it's trying too hard to be a weird shape for purely aesthetic reasons. There are no aspects of the instrument that take advantage of that shape (e.g., the control layout) that would justify it. Someone in the comments mentioned the Danelectro Longhorn, and that's another one where there's nothing to justify the "horns" in terms of playability or tone. Imagine if Bootsy Collins' "Space Bass" was just a big star. No glitter, no lights, and just a couple pickups (instead of, say, 4 pickups and a solar system full of switches). See, you have to go all it or it isn't "over-the-top"'; it's just ugly. Speaking of which... The Fender Performer is also a fail because it won't commit to the aesthetic. It wants to rock harder, but it still wants to fit in the Fender catalog. If you're going to have spikes and call yourself a "performer," you can't do it with a candy apple red finish and dot inlays. The headstock is just a stock Fender that's had the lower curves sanded away to make it straighter. Blah. Art is subjective, but it's worth recognize reasons why some attempts fall short with most of us. It's also important to recognize where your own prejudices and preferences leave you unqualified to give a general appraisal. (Returning to the movie example, Roger Ebert was a mediocre critic at best, but he was absolutely worthless at reviewing horror films. He gave almost every horror or horror-adjacent film (e.g., sci-fi or films by directors who used horror elements in their work) "thumbs-down" or low scores. He had a visceral reaction to the entire genre, but he failed to acknowledge that he couldn't assess a film's qualities or look past surface aesthetics to appreciate its merits. He should have recused himself but didn't.) If you have an aversion to some varieties of instrument, then you really can't say, "That bass is ugly" when it's something else you're reacting to. Personally, I couldn't review any models as broadly as this video does. I mean, I think the Rickenbacker 4003 is great and an absolute *classic*... but I hate the checkerboard binding. I also only like certain finishes, which excludes the fireglo. It literally comes down to that specific instrument (not the model) and all the details that comprise its look. It's possible to get one feature misaligned with my preferences, and that's a deal-breaker.

[@edwinmyers900]

Warwick Buzzard has to be on the list. Put the Thumb on there as well. I remembered seeing somebody play a Thumb for the first time and I thought a four year old had molded the design from playdough

[@sergiotoucourou1026]

During a violin making course, I discussed the traditionalism of guitar and bass design with the teacher. We agreed that this reflected the lack of creativity of the period. For example, making metal with a telecaster or precision is not visually and artistically an extension of the universe in question. In addition, the ergonomics of the aforementioned instruments or the technical characteristics when we take into account the example of the fanfrett and its suitability to modern styles and the optimal design of the instruments goes in the direction of my argument.

[@PollyBonanzas]

Bongo - 7 Wal Mk1 - 1 Magnum - 3 Gibson RD - 5 Rickenbacker - 1 Antigua Finish - 6 Steinberger XL2 - 3 Vox Phantom - 4 (looks like an oar) Big Al - 3 Performer - 6 Spector NS2 - 7 Curbow Petite - 6 Honorable mention, Danelectro Longhorn. Personally I love the bass, but I know many people don’t like it. So I’m curious what y’all think about it.

[@cortwashburn86]

I'm a firm believer that there are no ugly basses, only ugly paint jobs. I also own a Bongo 5, Danelectro Longhorn, and used to have a Spectorcore 5. I might have the worst taste in bass visuals, but I wouldn't switch to anything else.

[@sherwinparker9031]

John Myung was actually playing a bass called Tung. They have since been discontinued. They looked similar to Tobias basses with bartolini pickups and electronics.

[@acewalters]

Just a quick note, the phantom was around in the 60s. It doesn't make it any less ugly, but there is some history to it.

[@nathanverni9143]

My wife refers to all stringrays as toilet seat basses because of the pickguard shape. Can't unsee it

[@TheEldorado1991]

Hot take -- I've always been a fan of the design of the Ovation Magnum bass because of its very unique body shape! Granted it doesn't look the most comfortable to play but I always admired its rather avant-garde design. The ovation III and IV is actually my least favorite designs for abandoning their more traditional design but the original 2 models are awesome.

[@baruteku]

Bongo - solid 8 Wal Mk1 - I actually like it 3 Magnum - around 7 RD - hard to say i would say 5 Rickenbacker - 7 (I hate it but it was a first bass i had in my hand and made me fall in love with bass) Antigua finish - 1 (absolutly love it) Steinberger - 1 (as above) Vox - 9 E-ball -8 Fender - 6 (I agree it looks a bit for metal. But I like metal so....) Specter - 1 Curbow - 4

[@Heart_Reaper1]

I wanted a Bongo From the first day it came out in 2003. Now I’m 61, and finally Found the right one last year. Left hand 4H in Medallion Gold. Amazing to play, killer sound, and It’s Gorgeous!

[@optiTHOMAS]

Hmmm. Maybe I'm the crazy one, but I don't really think any of these are ugly! 😅🤣👌🏻 any thing art deco or retro futuristic I automatically love as those are my favorite kinda styles! I quite like the Rickenbacker! It kinda has an art deco vibe like Ian said! Good stuff, man! I can usually find something about an instrument that I like! 😅😎👍🏻 also, yeah, that finish is glorious!

[@jpg7861]

Ey qué crack sacando a Miki Santamaría 🙌🏼

[@2dazetake]

You two gentlemen are great together, I haven't had this good of a belly laugh in quite awhile,plus your knowledge and laughter is infectious, always such a good time on this channel, thumbs up.🤣👍

[@tommullarkey1955]

You need more Steinberger love! Steinberger’s represented the 1980’s and many of the top players had one. I saw The Police play at Madison Square Garden in 1982 for the Ghost in the Machine tour (with Go-Go’s warming up). Sting played a Steinberger and absolutely slayed the place, one of the best shows i’ve ever seen.

[@andrewj.browncomics7348]

In order of appearance. 5, 3, 6, 6, 1, 1, 4, 7 (but it looks better as a guitar somehow), 8, 8 1/2, 5, 7 1/2. As a bonus, Carl Thompson. I actually can’t decide if it’s a 3, or 8. It’s either bad, or so audacious it’s beautiful

[@Chad_Sandridge75]

Bongo - 7.5 Wal - 2 Magnum - 9 Gibson RD - 4.5 Ric - 3.5 Antigua - 5 XL2 - 9 Vox - 6 Big Al - 6 Performer - 3.5 NS2 - 3.5 Curbow - 8 Honorable mention: Danelectro Longhorn - 10

[@ryckjunior9911]

Fodera Imperial - 11

[@katolecho]

Bongo design is dope.

[@damonoleary3929]

You forgot the Warwick buzzard… that thing looks like a steamrolled thanksgiving turkey…

[@williambattline3420]

Little late to the discussion but the Kramer Duke needs to be here.

[@kennethyoung430]

Warwick stopped paying Spector for the license once He sold to Kramer. What's the difference between Lull, Sadowsky, Lakland, Ect. All use the Fender design? Love the pod, I watch every episode.

[@Sphynx76]

I have always craved that beautiful Bongo. One day…

[@rhoodj]

I will never sell my Bongo 6 HH stealth black.

[@romelshowell7638]

IAN...I'm praying for your soul that you included the Curbow in this list!!!!!

[@johnmoser2689]

OK now you guys need to do a top twenty most awesome basses

[@manobap]

The first time I saw a Bongo was in a store here in São Paulo Brazil and I started to play like not showing my muscles but exploring all the possibilities this monster could get with patience, covering since punk to jazz and dub… and all the guys working there said “Finally someone who did it! This bass is ugly as phuck but you brought it to the limits…” I said “No way this bass is ugly, this is a masterpiece!!” and the guys started laughing at my taste. Yes, I look at it and see beauty all over this amazing design.

[@Whos-That-Guy]

First time I saw an Antigua jazz i had a Wayne's world moment.... I now have a 78 and F'ing love it.

[@devinebass]

🔥🔥🔥

[@planefixerguy5188]

Warwick lover here but surprised the Vampire and Buzzard didn't make the list.

[@munkygrip1977]

Always associate the MM Bongo with Gail Ann Dorsey. No one looked cooler rocking one of those than her!