Description
Shop fav! 80s MIJ Yamaha M-III 32” medium scale motion bass, $799!
The Yamaha Motion-III Bass is a lightweight, compact bass guitar that was part of Yamaha’s Motion series, popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Known for its sleek design and versatile sound, the Motion-III is a short-scale bass that offers excellent playability and tonal flexibility, making it ideal for a wide range of genres. Its smaller size and comfortable body shape make it a great option for players who prefer a bass with a more ergonomic design, without sacrificing tone or performance.
Key Features
Compact body design, providing a lightweight, ergonomic feel for comfortable playing
Medium scale length (32 inches), making it easier to play and offering a warmer tone with less string tension
Maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard, ensuring smooth playability and durability
PJ pickup configuration (Precision-style split-coil at the neck and Jazz-style single-coil at the bridge), delivering a wide range of tones from deep and punchy to bright and articulate
Master volume and tone controls for easy sound shaping
High-quality hardware and tuning stability, typical of Yamaha’s craftsmanship
Available in various finishes, including black, white, and metallic colors
Sound Profile
The Yamaha Motion-III Bass offers a versatile sound thanks to its PJ pickup configuration. The split-coil Precision-style pickup at the neck provides a deep, punchy low-end, making it great for genres like rock, funk, and reggae, where a solid bass foundation is essential. The Jazz-style single-coil pickup at the bridge adds brightness and clarity, making it perfect for cutting through the mix in more aggressive or melodic bass lines. The combination of the two pickups allows for a wide tonal range, from warm, rounded lows to snappy, defined highs. The short scale length adds a slightly warmer, more midrange-focused sound compared to full-scale basses.
Applications
The Yamaha Motion-III Bass is ideal for bassists who want a versatile, lightweight instrument that can handle a wide range of musical styles. Its compact design makes it perfect for players who prefer a smaller, more comfortable bass, whether for extended practice sessions or live performances. The PJ pickup configuration allows the Motion-III to excel in various genres, from rock and funk to pop and jazz. Its shorter scale length also makes it an excellent choice for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more relaxed playing feel.
Build Quality and Aesthetic
Made in Japan, the Yamaha Motion-III Bass is known for its solid construction and reliable performance. The compact, sleek body design makes it highly playable, and the maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard ensures smooth and fast playability. The bass’s overall aesthetic is modern, with clean lines and minimalistic hardware, giving it a stylish, professional look. Its high-quality components and durable build reflect Yamaha’s commitment to crafting reliable instruments for both beginners and professionals.
Country of Manufacture
Japan
Collectibility and Market Value
The Yamaha Motion-III Bass is appreciated among collectors and players of vintage Japanese instruments for its unique design, compact size, and tonal versatility. Although not as well-known as other Yamaha bass models, it holds its value well on the used market due to its rarity, solid build quality, and reputation for reliability. It’s particularly sought after by players who prefer short-scale basses or are looking for a lightweight, versatile instrument that can handle a range of musical styles.
