Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

After messing around with a couple Alembics recently and a 4002 at MARF, I've become enamored with the tone of ebony fretboards. So I'm on the hunt for a bargain [since a 4002 ain't gonna happen.]

Anybody know who else makes basses with ebony boards in the 2k range? I can get a new Alembic for $2200, but the body shape of that model leaves a lot to be desired IMHO.

Carvin uses ebony. You can get one decked out with quilt, 18v electronics and about any option you can think of for less than $1500.00

I've used a "budjet" model B4 for years. Great little gigging bass.

Their new "Icon" bass looks interesting.

www.carvin.com

scott, how did you like the carvin b4. is it comparable to the fender american jass or better?

Thanks for the tip, Scott.

Anybody else have any experience with Carvin?

michael, i've never played one before but i have friends that own them and are very pleased with them.

I've used Carvin stuff for years, never had a problem. Had a real nice LB-76 six string a few years ago, but couldnt get a handle on the 6th string.

My B4 is set up pretty much like a Jazz bass, and sounds good. Kindof an '80's sounding bass, if that makes any sense.

I've gigged with it so much it buzzes like crazy and needs a refret.

My Carvin SC90 is a great guitar, although some of the hardware could be better. (I feel that way about lots of instruments and their hardware, so this really isn't a knock on Carvin, per se.)

I agree with the hardware, although I see that they use the Hipshot Style "A" bridge on their basses now.

I've been thinking of ordering a new 5 string for a while.

The only downside on Carvin is re-sale value. Pitiful. Check Ebay for some real bargains.