Description

This bass means business! 70s MIJ Yamaha SB-75 with a mahogany body and two single coil pickups, $799!

The Yamaha SB-75 is a vintage bass produced primarily in Japan during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Part of Yamaha’s “Super Bass” (SB) series, it was designed with versatility, high craftsmanship, and professional-quality construction in mind. Though less recognized than Yamaha’s BB series, the SB-75 stands out for its build quality and tonal versatility.

Key Specifications and Features:

  • Body: The SB-75 has a solid body, typically made from alder or ash, depending on production. This construction provides a resonant and balanced tone suitable for various genres. The contoured body ensures comfort during extended playing sessions, while also facilitating easy access to the higher frets.
  • Neck: The neck is made of maple, with a fingerboard either in rosewood. This gives the bass a smooth, fast feel, ideal for complex bass lines. The neck profile is comfortable and makes the bass well-suited for a variety of playing styles.
  • Scale Length: The SB-75 has a 34-inch scale, the standard for most bass guitars, offering comfortable string tension and a deep, clear low-end sound.
  • Pickups: The bass typically features dual single-coil pickups or a combination of a single-coil and a humbucker. These pickups provide a wide range of tonal options, from bright, punchy sounds to more rounded, warm tones. The pickup configuration allows for flexibility across genres such as rock, funk, jazz, and pop. Some models include a three-way pickup selector for blending different tonal options.
  • Electronics: Simple and efficient controls include individual volume and tone knobs for each pickup, allowing players to fine-tune their sound. The passive electronics add to the vintage appeal while delivering reliable tone shaping.
  • Bridge: The SB-75 uses a vintage-style fixed bridge known for its stability and sustain. This type of bridge helps maintain clear, punchy low-end tones while adding resonance.

Aesthetic and Build Quality:

The Yamaha SB-75 reflects the high standards of Japanese craftsmanship. Instruments from this era are highly regarded for their durability, able to withstand regular studio or live use, and have a sleek design that appeals to collectors and players alike.

Sound Profile:

The SB-75 delivers a versatile sound, offering clear, well-defined tones. Its combination of solid construction and high-quality pickups gives it the ability to cut through in a mix while still maintaining depth in the lower frequencies. The bass is highly adaptable, excelling in genres like rock, funk, and jazz. Its responsive nature makes it suitable for slap techniques, fingerstyle, or pick playing.

Country of Manufacture:

  • Japan: Produced in Japan during the late 70s and early 80s, the SB-75 benefits from the precision and attention to detail typical of Yamaha’s Japanese instruments. Japanese-made Yamaha basses from this era are highly valued for their reliability and tonal excellence.

As Used By:

The SB-75 is favored by players who appreciate its vintage sound and build. While not as widely recognized as other Yamaha basses, it is popular among studio musicians and indie bassists looking for a solid, reliable instrument with unique character.

Notable Yamaha bass players (who used other Yamaha models) include:

  • Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, The Winery Dogs) – Known for his preference for Yamaha basses, Sheehan appreciates their build quality and tonal range.
  • Michael Anthony (Van Halen, Chickenfoot) – A longtime Yamaha user, Anthony’s preference for basses with punchy clarity resonates with the SB-75’s characteristics.
  • Pino Palladino (Session bassist for The Who, John Mayer Trio) – Palladino is another example of a Yamaha bassist, although he’s primarily known for using the BB series. His need for versatility could be compared to the SB-75’s tonal range.

Collectibility and Market Value:

As a relatively rare model, the Yamaha SB-75 has gained some recognition among collectors of vintage Japanese-made instruments. Its market value can vary based on condition, but it is often regarded as a hidden gem among Yamaha basses. Due to its rarity, the SB-75 appeals to players who want something unique from the mainstream models of the era.

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