Description

A little treat from the 90s! MIJ Heartfield DR-4 Bass built for Fender with active and passive electronics, $699 with a hard case!

Overview: The Heartfield DR-4 is a bass guitar produced by Heartfield, a sub-brand created by Fender during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Heartfield instruments were known for their innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship, combining modern features with Fender’s classic legacy. The DR-4 model is particularly noted for its versatile sound, ergonomic design, and build quality.

Key Features:

  • Body:
    • Material: Alder
    • Finish: Gloss finish
    • Shape: Double-cutaway design for easy access to higher frets
  • Neck:
    • Material: Maple
    • Construction: Bolt-on neck
    • Fingerboard: Rosewood
    • Scale Length: 34 inches (86.36 cm)
    • Frets: 24 medium-jumbo frets
    • Inlays: Dot inlays
    • Nut Width: 1.5 inches (38 mm)
  • Hardware:
    • Bridge: High-mass bridge for improved sustain and stability
    • Tuners: Sealed die-cast tuners for accurate tuning
  • Electronics:
    • Pickups: Two active single-coil pickups
    • Controls:
      • Master volume
      • Pickup blend control
      • Active 2-band EQ (bass and treble boost/cut)
    • Preamp: Active electronics for enhanced tonal versatility and output

Design and Aesthetics:

  • Body Shape: Ergonomic design with a contoured body for player comfort
  • Headstock: Features the Heartfield logo and Fender branding
  • Finish: High-gloss finish available in various colors, adding to its modern aesthetic

Sound Characteristics:

  • Versatile Tone: The active pickups and 2-band EQ provide a wide range of tones, from deep, punchy lows to bright, articulate highs
  • Balanced Response: Suitable for various playing styles, including fingerstyle, slap, and pick playing
  • Dynamic Range: The active electronics ensure a powerful, clear output, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings

Applications:

  • Genres: Ideal for rock, funk, jazz, pop, and more
  • Usage: Suitable for both live performances and studio recordings due to its versatile sound and reliable build quality

Manufacturing Location:

  • Country of Origin: Japan. Heartfield instruments were primarily produced in Japan, known for their meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality standards.

Notable Users:

  • Rock: Billy Sheehan, known for his virtuoso bass playing, has been associated with Heartfield basses for their playability and tone.
  • Funk: Bootsy Collins, although known for his work with other brands, has praised the versatility of Heartfield basses.
  • Indie: Joe Lester of Silversun Pickups, known for his melodic and atmospheric bass lines, has utilized Heartfield basses to achieve his unique sound.
  • Jazz/Fusion: Gary Willis, a renowned bassist in the jazz and fusion genres, has been known to use Heartfield basses for their dynamic range and tonal versatility.

Conclusion

The 1990s Heartfield by Fender DR-4 bass is a high-quality instrument that offers a versatile sound and modern design, making it a valuable addition to any bassist’s collection. With its active electronics, ergonomic build, and exceptional craftsmanship, the DR-4 is suitable for a wide range of musical genres and playing styles. Whether for live performances or studio recordings, this bass provides the reliability and dynamic range needed to excel in any musical setting.

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