Upgrading an inexpensive bass

[eatswodo]

A couple of years ago, I bought my eldest son a Yamaha RBX 170 bass, when he expressed an interest in playing. It was only $129 on sale at GC, so I wasn't out much if that interest came to nothing.

Which it did. It sat there gathering dust until about 6 months ago, when he suddenly discovered (among other bands) Rush, Dream Theater and Yes. All of a sudden, he's a youth possessed - practicing at all hours of the day and night, downloading tabs from all over, and listening to all sorts of stuff. During this time, the limitations of the Yamaha have become prominent. It plays just fine, but the pickups are definitely lacking.

So, for his recent 18th, I got him a set of EMG Selects (a P/J pair) from StewMac. Less than $50. We installed them yesterday afternoon, and all of a sudden this cheap - I mean, inexpensive - bass sounds fabulous. It growls and clanks, and does not buzz any more - worth every penny, and still not out of proportion to the overall cost of the instrument.

I fear RIC GAS is next. He's very taken with earlier Rush, and Mr. Squire. I'm so proud

[kiramdear]

Nice story, David.

It seems that it really doesn't take a whole lot to please a fellow with so much youthful enthusiasm. That said, I fear that once he signs up with the RRF it's a slippery slope till he's GASsing along with the rest (and the best) of us. I predict he'll be wanting that CS model any day now.

It's good to hear that young people are still reviving the classics. He'll be just fine with heroes like Rush and Yes, IMHO. Maybe toss a Macca album or two his way as well ...

[weemac]

Nothing wrong with Select "P" pickups they are the fastest and cheapest way to make a nasty bass work....
Eden.