I wish on 5-strings, you'd specifically play, test & talk about the B string, that's what makes or breaks a 5-string for me, especially slapping. Thanks for your content!
First bass on your channel that i did not like. Wow. Never expected that this moment would come. Stellar presentation as always though lobster. Thanks for the review.
@@LowEndLobster it did and i am a sucker for passive basses with this certain config. Especially with vintage inspired body styles. Much love my man. Keep on rocking.
Yeah Lobster , the stacked pickups have been around to 40 years , so they should be easy for the manufacturer to put in a bass as stock. The thing is I like battery compartment doors that require screws they are harder to break off. With more and more roasted maple I'm starting to think it's more about less aging and drying of wood for years and more about using newer wood quicker.
Hello again Mr. Lobster. Well, my order was for a TMB605, but as I suspected I received a TMB505. (an error in the GC display) I was actually quite happy with the tones that could be dialed in, but as you indicated in an earlier demo, it is nose (neck) heavy making it nearly impossible to play while sitting. But that was quite manageable when standing, especially if the strap was leather with a bit of resistance. However, the deal breaker for me was the fact the neck was such a dark roast that it was impossible to see the black dot markers. It was literally unplayable for anyone who needs to see the top side position markers! It would be "so easy" for Ibanez to remedy the neck imbalance; simply make the top horn a little longer. Of course, they solve the dark roast problem; just take it out of the oven a little sooner. But, it's not for me to tell Ibanez how to make their Talman bass, but they just lost one sale. But Reverend gained one. I purchased a Mercalli 5, not what I started out looking for, but what I ended up with, and I think I'm going to keep it. Maybe review it sometime!
Super happy to see you review this. I had 2 TMB605s a few years ago. The reasons I had 2 were due to QC issues. The first one could not be played above the 13th fret, even with a good setup AND there were washers and control lock nuts floating in the control cavity. The second one got 86'd because the neck had a similar issue with the neck and the bridge was off center bringing the G string to almost the edge of the frets. Such a comfy bass with a great sound, but I can't see myself giving them another chance.
Thanks! Bummer about your issues, I'm hoping they do a 'refresh' of the Talman that addresses some of the issues as I think the line has potential. But I agree with your sentiment, I don't see myself giving them another chance for now (besides the 100, will definitely look at that as a beginner instrument)
I got a TMB100 for my sister last year. At first I didn't like the body shape and the head stock but after playing it a bit, I was like "why didn't I buy it for myself.." It is fun as hell to play, got a really comfy neck, awesome tones (especially for slapping). It is a bass which I can strongly recommend for beginners and for who ever want to add an interesting bass into his/hers collection.
That's a pretty smooth tone. Reminds me of a PJ frankenbass I had that was basically a bunch of parts screwed together to make a half-decent bass...and the tone I got back then for that little project was more than worth it haha.
I really like the paint, and that roasted neck. It's pretty, but for those dollars, I like the Sire V5. I know that's not really an apples to carrots comparison, but I like carrots!
Shout out to rotating the bass like another commenter had mentioned in another video 🤘the P pickup is indeed nice sounding! That bridge pickup at 50% tone had a nice burp to it but beyond that, agreed, the hum is lame and I’d probably never use it. Maybe if this bass cost $100 less it would be a better value.
Seems cool as I said before. Interesting points you showed to be considered on that price level ... I'm building up some learning on basses. Wish to buy a decent one someday (medium price/not budget)... and 5 strings!
I had a TMB605 for a few years that I eventually traded for a Sire V7. I agree about the bridge pickup, Ibanez should have used a big split ( stacked humbucker) instead of a big single. I think the Nordstrand equipped TMB’s are nice, but that hum is annoying.
Lobster, I liked the sound so much from your 2 videos on this bass that I just ordered the metallic forest green 4 string version. Love the roasted maple neck, not crazy about the green color but it could be worse and I may like it a bit more once I see it in person. Hard to believe it's offered in only one color. Mine is suppose to weigh only about 8.2 lbs coming from Sweetwater so not heavy at all. If that switch bothers you that much you could always file it down flat with the pickguard, for me the switch position works fine. I already have the TMB100 and this one should be a nice upgrade from that one. I think a 3 claw rating is a bit weak for this bass, even the Sterlings all seem to get 4 and I think that is being overly generous for those when a EBMM only gets 5. Perhaps you need to change the rating scale from 1 to 10 claws, or throw in a lobster tail now and then as a bonus😀.
Thanks Glenn and congrats on your bass! Keep in mind my opinions are just my opinions, and my ratings are completely subjective - folks don't have to agree with me. The one thing I do strive for is the quality and consistent audio so the bass can speak for itself. The sound of an instrument and how it feels will speak to everyone differently, and all I can hope to do is provide clips that give folks an idea of what they're getting into.
@@LowEndLobsterAnd you definitely have quality and consistent audio and your reviews are always first rate. Your videos have cost me money however, this will be the third bass I've bought because of you😀.
Great review as always, Lobster! Any chance you could rotate your bases on the wall behind you? There’s a beautiful blue one always hidden behind your head 😀
Ibanez has a huge line of basses for every genre of music and price range. Have you reviewed any of their high end basses? Like the sound, quality of them. In some settings this bass sounds good, B string doesn't have that boom!
Thanks Ralph! Yes, so far the EHBs, AFRs, and some mid-high tier soundgears (SRMS coming, Portamento was a month or two ago). We'll be checking out more in 2021 including some BTBs! :)
Nice review, as always. Ibanez basses always sound a little thin to me, but this doesn't seem to suffer from that problem? I always wonder how much good hardware would add to the the cost of production. Some of the Wilkinson hardware seems very solid and is not expensive at all, for example. Why stick a roasted maple neck and a pre amp on a bass and then cheap out on the bridge and tuners? I don't get it. Just me? Anyhow, really enjoy the channel. Thanks!
Thanks Mark! Yeah I feel like they spread themselves a little thin here, adding cool features at the expense of cutting major corners that negatively impact the experience overall.
Thank you for using the B string for your demo. I hate when I go to view and listen to a demo of a 5 string bass and the player omits the string altogether. Frustrating when you buy a 5 string for that low end growl. I wish I had a teacher like you. Can’t find many where I live, if at all.
Yep. That's a Cor-Tek Talman lol and that is exactly what I expect it to sound like, with that pickup set. Also am surprised since the CND pickups are co-designed with Ibanez so it was an obvious overlook or for some reason left out of the feature set.
G&L Tribute SB-2 Bass Guitar - Sonic Blue 4-string Electric Bass with Mahogany Body, Maple Neck, Maple Fingerboard, and P/J Pickups - Sonic Blue You're looking at Serial 200620919 Weight: 9lbs 6oz We have 2 of these online. Choose your favorite! $599.99 just sayin - The Fallout Tribute bass is on sale too!
I had the TMB310. I loved the way that bass looked, but just didn't fit right in my hands so to speak. Id love to have one in the collection one day when I can justify buying a bass that isn't something I plan on gigging with.
I just received the TMB 500, the 4 string version of this bass. My fretboard is really dark brown. I was expecting the roasted maple neck to look and smell luscious like my EBMM Stingray Specials but that is not the case at all, instead it smells like wood stain. There is even a tiny bit of stain on the nut. It's so dark it is really hard to see the black fret markers in poor lighting such as on a dark stage or room. I'm beginning to question whether it is even roasted at all or just stained. To my mind if it is roasted what's the point of staining it afterwards, really dumb! On the good side the fret work is much better than on my TMB100 and I'm not getting any of the hum on the single coil bridge pickup as you were. I so far prefer the bass in passive as its sounds very natural, the active mode can be a bit harsh unless you tame the treble. Also the tuners are still the same old crappy ones like Sterling uses, really wish they'd wise up and use something better. I agree with you, the battery cover is a cheap shortcut and for the price it needs something that you just push and it opens up. Lastly the knobs are on crooked just like they were on my TMB100, I'll have to take them off and reinstall. By the way the tort shell pickguard on my TMB100 was fake tort, just painted on. I found out when I tried to buff out some scratches and the painted on tort design rubbed right off. Still debating on whether to keep this new one or send it back and get something like the G &L Tribute for $100 more. What do you think Lobster? Anything else around this price I should consider? I already have the Sterling short scale. I am going to play this thing for a few days and see if it grows on me. It does sound nice. Still can't get over the stained neck/fret board!!! Geez! My hands smell like wood stain not the roasted maple I was hoping for 😕.
Thanks Glenn! That's a bummer. Yeah the inconsistency on the roasted necks of has been a major turn off. G&L Tributes are great basses but struggle with different problems (mainly weight and some QC consistency).
@@LowEndLobster I wouldn't mind dark roasted maple if it had white pearl fret markers so that you could actually see them, but I'm questioning if this is a poor job of roasted maple with a a coating of walnut wood stain to hide the quality or just a dark walnut wood stain on maple with no roasting at all. Smells like wood stain, not roasted maple. The cost of shipping it back plus being charged for the initial shipping is a bit much to swallow on a $500 instrument so I'll most likely keep it. No hum, decent fret work and it does sound pretty good so those at least are pluses.
That's a really tasty looking one! However, I have never really liked the Nordstrands that Ibanez put in their basses. I wonder if it's a similar deal as with the Bartolinis, that the U.S made counterparts are just way better than the ones that Ibanez produce. I don't think I've ever played U.S made Nordstrands, so I couldn't say. It could simply be that I don't prefer the "Nordstrand sound". EDIT: Just noticed that this is a 2 year old video 😅
Haha no worries. TBH I think Nordstrand pickups can cover a wide array of tones depending on the models. These style pickups to tend to be on the brighter side. I'm a big fan of their blade pickups more
That bass imo should have just been passive, idk why Eq's are added to basses. Its just stacking preamps. you have pedals with eq, the amp, and basses i just dont get it.
Hi man!! Love your channel!! I would like to see you reviewing the Jackson X Signature CBXM-IV David Ellefson Concert 4-String Bass Guitar White, it seems its a good bass. See you man!! Thanks a lot for your videos.
Hey JP. There's a lot of choices. 3 claws doesn't make it a bad bass but an average value. It really depends what you are looking for tonally and feel wise as there are a LOT of options.
@@LowEndLobster Thanks for taking the time to reply! This one appealed because I’d heard it did the classic P sound well. If your only requirements were 5 strings and no soap bars what would be at the top of your list?
@@JPStephens Hrm... If you want the wider spacing that this has (18 or 17.5 I think), the Yamaha BB435 is a really cool option. If you want tighter spacing, the Ray24Ca is a good choice as well, or a used Ray34HH. I think the SUB Ray5HH delivers more than the Ibanez at its lower price point, but it's still a tier below and would compete with the next tier of TMB down. Hope that helps!
@@LowEndLobster I really appreciate it! I've definitely been looking at the SUB Ray5HH, and your review of it is far and away the most helpful I've seen. I'll have to take a closer look at the Yamaha. Thanks for taking the time to answer even as your channel is blowing up, and deservedly so!
Hello, I was planning to buy the tmb500 4-string version. I have the tmb100 and I like it very much. No I am a bit unsure because of the bad feedback it gets here. I really like the option to play it active or passive with a passive tone controle. And I like the vintage look. Do you have an other recommendation in this price range? Thanks for the review.
Hey Lukas! Great question. The Yamahas that Lucy suggested are solid basses. I reviewed a 735A, and though it wasn't perfect, it's definitely a solid bass and the B434 would be a great passive option (I didn't like the B on the 5'er). I have yet to play a TRBX though. Other options would include the Sire P7 4 string and Cort options.
@@LowEndLobster I have a TMB35 coming, so I will evaluate it and decide whether it justifies and upgrade to the electronics, presuming there is a PJ set of EMG or Bartolini that can replace the Dynamix without major modification. Or do you suppose Ibanez had the Dynamix designed so as not to be interchangeable? I'm still in pursuit of, at least, a medium quality 5 string short scale bass. I must also have a look at the Ibanez SRMD205 32 inch scale.
Anyone else notice how this has so many similarities with the Harley Benton JP55OP but somehow falls short even though its more than double the price? You could buy 2 of those for this price and get better basses.
I.would love to get a Talman TMB 505 or 605. The 605 natural is beautiful. Butt it looks like Ibanez discontinued those. I only find TMB35 and TMB10O or 105 a Sweetwater and Guitar Center. Why did they discontinue this model?
I had no idea this was discontinued! I chalk it up to Ibanez being Ibanez, they've discontinued more basses in the span of a few years than some companies have produced in their entire lifespan.
@@LowEndLobster I found a place on Reverb selling them and also Alto music says they are selling them. Confusing since so many places don't have and say they are discontinued.
Not a fan of the lower end Ibanez. I almost bought an Ibanez instead of the Sterling; they were the same price. To be honest, I don’t remember the model name, but I feel like it sounded better at $230. It also had a battery door and no active/passive switch. The high end Ibanez is where that brand shines.
Thanks Everett! I agree, the low-mid range Ibanez basses seem to have potential but are missing the mark in several ways. The cheaper ones seem to be a lot more focused, and the more premium models also seem to be a lot better and more well rounded.
@@LowEndLobster Yeah, that was my concern from looking at it. I'm digging it otherwise. I just sold a killer USA G&L bass of mine, along with a Les Paul cause of some neck heaviness. I can't live with that anymore.
That body shape annoys the daylights out of me, but it does sounds great! But why doesn’t Ibanez put a A/P option on their higher end Basses? I like the preamp set up on it, can’t stand that body shape.🤨🎶👍🏾
@@stuntmusician6398 Yeah, I’m aware of the SR650 series, and Nordstrand sells the ‘official’ CND pickups for the Ibanez SR650 series. My only grip with the SR series it doesn’t have a A/P option as oppose to the talman series.
Did Ibanez produce a more expensive block inlay version of the Talman? I think i saw Steve "Baze" Basil from Machine Gun Kelly play one, but I didn't find any information online.
I have a tmb310 with block inlays and binding. I love block inlays and I really wish they would bring them back. Tmbs have my favorite necks and I would love use them for other projects, but I want the inlays
I think their budget allowed for one or the other. An oven or shielding. Oven: “I can roast necks/fretboards and cook pizza” Cort CEO: Ok, nice Shielding: “I can stop that annoying hum, therefore making the the bass useful for live shows and recording” Cort: what else? Shielding: “I can help keep snails out of your garden” Cort: “PIZZA FOR LUNCH GUYS!!!”
I'm a huge fan of Nordstrand pickups and have used them for years. Carey's designs translate to great tone. I agree with you on the active/passive switch's placement. Plus the body shape is odd. I'm ambivalent about it, but it still is oddly shaped. You should get a RUclips award for best bass reviews. Totally cool, as always.
Thanks Ram! I appreciate your enthusiasm :). I'm more about showcasing the bass rather than showing off my chops. My goal is to illustrate how the bass will sound for folks rather than trying to play fancy songs.
About battery door ...for my personal opinion...it's not good ..I have battery door of my Yamaha TRBX 304..it's jumping out.....well screw battery door is better I think
Lobster, I have the TMB600. Ash body that weighs a ton. And fret ends were some of the worst I've seen on any bass in that price bracket. Now that its playable, I can say I do enjoy the sound. Only problem is that its not a 5 string. They didn't bring any 5s in to my home country. So......... I think we need to have a private chat........IYKWIM 😉😊😂
Thanks Jean-Paul! Hit me up privately if you're interested, I think I am going to sell this one. I have a biz account so shipping shouldn't be as terrible. Instagram or discord is best :)
Ugliest headstock of any guitar or bass ever made, I would buy this bass if not for the boat paddle headstock. Ibanez typically gets everything right and I own many Ibanez bass’s and guitars, but no way will I ever buy this boat paddle headstock bass.
I wish on 5-strings, you'd specifically play, test & talk about the B string, that's what makes or breaks a 5-string for me, especially slapping.
Thanks for your content!
First bass on your channel that i did not like. Wow. Never expected that this moment would come.
Stellar presentation as always though lobster. Thanks for the review.
Thanks Swain! Indeed, this has potential but Ibanez definitely fell short.
@@LowEndLobster it did and i am a sucker for passive basses with this certain config. Especially with vintage inspired body styles. Much love my man. Keep on rocking.
You are the only honest reviewer I’ve seen .
Can you review the new trace Elliot pro line
Don’t sell out 😁👍
You're quoting some measurements in metric. Love it! 😆
:)
This is the way.
Yeah Lobster , the stacked pickups have been around to 40 years , so they should be easy for the manufacturer to put in a bass as stock.
The thing is I like battery compartment doors that require screws they are harder to break off.
With more and more roasted maple I'm starting to think it's more about less aging and drying of wood for years and more about using newer wood quicker.
Thanks Michael! I think you might be right on the roasting for the likes of Cort (and the basses the OEM build for)
Hello again Mr. Lobster. Well, my order was for a TMB605, but as I suspected I received a TMB505. (an error in the GC display) I was actually quite happy with the tones that could be dialed in, but as you indicated in an earlier demo, it is nose (neck) heavy making it nearly impossible to play while sitting. But that was quite manageable when standing, especially if the strap was leather with a bit of resistance. However, the deal breaker for me was the fact the neck was such a dark roast that it was impossible to see the black dot markers. It was literally unplayable for anyone who needs to see the top side position markers! It would be "so easy" for Ibanez to remedy the neck imbalance; simply make the top horn a little longer. Of course, they solve the dark roast problem; just take it out of the oven a little sooner. But, it's not for me to tell Ibanez how to make their Talman bass, but they just lost one sale. But Reverend gained one. I purchased a Mercalli 5, not what I started out looking for, but what I ended up with, and I think I'm going to keep it. Maybe review it sometime!
Hello! I remember you mentioning this on talkbass. Congrats on the Mercalli, those look sweet! I am excited to try one out hopefully soon!
Super happy to see you review this. I had 2 TMB605s a few years ago. The reasons I had 2 were due to QC issues. The first one could not be played above the 13th fret, even with a good setup AND there were washers and control lock nuts floating in the control cavity. The second one got 86'd because the neck had a similar issue with the neck and the bridge was off center bringing the G string to almost the edge of the frets. Such a comfy bass with a great sound, but I can't see myself giving them another chance.
Thanks! Bummer about your issues, I'm hoping they do a 'refresh' of the Talman that addresses some of the issues as I think the line has potential. But I agree with your sentiment, I don't see myself giving them another chance for now (besides the 100, will definitely look at that as a beginner instrument)
Glad you reviewed this! I’ve been seeing the 4 string versions pop up for a good price! Will you be modifying this bass?
Hey Lavalval! Glad you enjoyed the vid :) I won't be modifying this.
I got a TMB100 for my sister last year. At first I didn't like the body shape and the head stock but after playing it a bit, I was like "why didn't I buy it for myself.." It is fun as hell to play, got a really comfy neck, awesome tones (especially for slapping). It is a bass which I can strongly recommend for beginners and for who ever want to add an interesting bass into his/hers collection.
Thanks Demon!
That's a pretty smooth tone. Reminds me of a PJ frankenbass I had that was basically a bunch of parts screwed together to make a half-decent bass...and the tone I got back then for that little project was more than worth it haha.
Thanks Jack :)
I really like the paint, and that roasted neck. It's pretty, but for those dollars, I like the Sire V5. I know that's not really an apples to carrots comparison, but I like carrots!
I agree the color scheme is very nice I can't stand the tone tho,
I'm right there with you Bizi!
Shout out to rotating the bass like another commenter had mentioned in another video 🤘the P pickup is indeed nice sounding! That bridge pickup at 50% tone had a nice burp to it but beyond that, agreed, the hum is lame and I’d probably never use it. Maybe if this bass cost $100 less it would be a better value.
Thanks Taconeko!
Seems cool as I said before. Interesting points you showed to be considered on that price level ... I'm building up some learning on basses. Wish to buy a decent one someday (medium price/not budget)... and 5 strings!
Thanks Roger!
I have always been a fan of the 4 String version of this bass🎸🎸🎸
Great sounding and looking bass! Hopefully Ibanez can correct it’s qc with those finger boards like you said, especially since cort is the oem.
Thanks! Indeed, they need a better roastmaster ;P
I had a TMB605 for a few years that I eventually traded for a Sire V7. I agree about the bridge pickup, Ibanez should have used a big split ( stacked humbucker) instead of a big single. I think the Nordstrand equipped TMB’s are nice, but that hum is annoying.
Thanks! Yep, missed opportunity here for sure!
Lobster, I liked the sound so much from your 2 videos on this bass that I just ordered the metallic forest green 4 string version. Love the roasted maple neck, not crazy about the green color but it could be worse and I may like it a bit more once I see it in person. Hard to believe it's offered in only one color. Mine is suppose to weigh only about 8.2 lbs coming from Sweetwater so not heavy at all. If that switch bothers you that much you could always file it down flat with the pickguard, for me the switch position works fine. I already have the TMB100 and this one should be a nice upgrade from that one. I think a 3 claw rating is a bit weak for this bass, even the Sterlings all seem to get 4 and I think that is being overly generous for those when a EBMM only gets 5. Perhaps you need to change the rating scale from 1 to 10 claws, or throw in a lobster tail now and then as a bonus😀.
Thanks Glenn and congrats on your bass! Keep in mind my opinions are just my opinions, and my ratings are completely subjective - folks don't have to agree with me. The one thing I do strive for is the quality and consistent audio so the bass can speak for itself. The sound of an instrument and how it feels will speak to everyone differently, and all I can hope to do is provide clips that give folks an idea of what they're getting into.
@@LowEndLobsterAnd you definitely have quality and consistent audio and your reviews are always first rate. Your videos have cost me money however, this will be the third bass I've bought because of you😀.
I liked it in passive mode. Also agree with about not wanting a charbroiled neck.
Thanks Brandon! I've seen some pics of others that are almost wenge colored haha
Great review as always, Lobster! Any chance you could rotate your bases on the wall behind you? There’s a beautiful blue one always hidden behind your head 😀
Thanks Andy!... I really should, that FGN is a looker... Good idea.
Already shot this week's (and some of next week's) videos, but you'll see the rotation in feb :)
I have to write a review for my college English course and I'm gonna use this video to help write a review on my new Yamaha BB435
Suhweet :)
Ibanez has a huge line of basses for every genre of music and price range. Have you reviewed any of their high end basses? Like the sound, quality of them. In some settings this bass sounds good, B string doesn't have that boom!
Thanks Ralph! Yes, so far the EHBs, AFRs, and some mid-high tier soundgears (SRMS coming, Portamento was a month or two ago). We'll be checking out more in 2021 including some BTBs! :)
Nice review, as always. Ibanez basses always sound a little thin to me, but this doesn't seem to suffer from that problem? I always wonder how much good hardware would add to the the cost of production. Some of the Wilkinson hardware seems very solid and is not expensive at all, for example. Why stick a roasted maple neck and a pre amp on a bass and then cheap out on the bridge and tuners? I don't get it. Just me? Anyhow, really enjoy the channel. Thanks!
Talmans always struck me as their more "traditional" take where the GSRs are more "modern"
Thanks Mark! Yeah I feel like they spread themselves a little thin here, adding cool features at the expense of cutting major corners that negatively impact the experience overall.
TMB’s were meant to sound very Fenderlike, and Ibanez succeeded nicely.
Thank you for using the B string for your demo. I hate when I go to view and listen to a demo of a 5 string bass and the player omits the string altogether. Frustrating when you buy a 5 string for that low end growl. I wish I had a teacher like you. Can’t find many where I live, if at all.
Yep. That's a Cor-Tek Talman lol and that is exactly what I expect it to sound like, with that pickup set. Also am surprised since the CND pickups are co-designed with Ibanez so it was an obvious overlook or for some reason left out of the feature set.
*the hum
G&L Tribute SB-2 Bass Guitar - Sonic Blue
4-string Electric Bass with Mahogany Body, Maple Neck, Maple Fingerboard, and P/J Pickups - Sonic Blue
You're looking at Serial
200620919
Weight: 9lbs 6oz
We have 2 of these online. Choose your favorite!
$599.99
just sayin - The Fallout Tribute bass is on sale too!
Indeed, definitely feels like it has potential but they cut corners. Well be doing G&Ls soon, don't worry ;P
I had the TMB310. I loved the way that bass looked, but just didn't fit right in my hands so to speak. Id love to have one in the collection one day when I can justify buying a bass that isn't something I plan on gigging with.
Thanks Basturd!
I just ordered the metallic gray and I'm going to immediately convert it into a "Tenor" (piccolo) bass.
Awesome! Congrats!
I just received the TMB 500, the 4 string version of this bass. My fretboard is really dark brown. I was expecting the roasted maple neck to look and smell luscious like my EBMM Stingray Specials but that is not the case at all, instead it smells like wood stain. There is even a tiny bit of stain on the nut. It's so dark it is really hard to see the black fret markers in poor lighting such as on a dark stage or room. I'm beginning to question whether it is even roasted at all or just stained. To my mind if it is roasted what's the point of staining it afterwards, really dumb! On the good side the fret work is much better than on my TMB100 and I'm not getting any of the hum on the single coil bridge pickup as you were. I so far prefer the bass in passive as its sounds very natural, the active mode can be a bit harsh unless you tame the treble. Also the tuners are still the same old crappy ones like Sterling uses, really wish they'd wise up and use something better. I agree with you, the battery cover is a cheap shortcut and for the price it needs something that you just push and it opens up. Lastly the knobs are on crooked just like they were on my TMB100, I'll have to take them off and reinstall. By the way the tort shell pickguard on my TMB100 was fake tort, just painted on. I found out when I tried to buff out some scratches and the painted on tort design rubbed right off. Still debating on whether to keep this new one or send it back and get something like the G &L Tribute for $100 more. What do you think Lobster? Anything else around this price I should consider? I already have the Sterling short scale. I am going to play this thing for a few days and see if it grows on me. It does sound nice. Still can't get over the stained neck/fret board!!! Geez! My hands smell like wood stain not the roasted maple I was hoping for 😕.
Thanks Glenn! That's a bummer. Yeah the inconsistency on the roasted necks of has been a major turn off. G&L Tributes are great basses but struggle with different problems (mainly weight and some QC consistency).
@@LowEndLobster I wouldn't mind dark roasted maple if it had white pearl fret markers so that you could actually see them, but I'm questioning if this is a poor job of roasted maple with a a coating of walnut wood stain to hide the quality or just a dark walnut wood stain on maple with no roasting at all. Smells like wood stain, not roasted maple. The cost of shipping it back plus being charged for the initial shipping is a bit much to swallow on a $500 instrument so I'll most likely keep it. No hum, decent fret work and it does sound pretty good so those at least are pluses.
great review bro thanks for sharing
Thanks John!
Great tone on the P pickup.
Thanks Keith! I agree, the P is the star of the show here.
That's a really tasty looking one! However, I have never really liked the Nordstrands that Ibanez put in their basses. I wonder if it's a similar deal as with the Bartolinis, that the U.S made counterparts are just way better than the ones that Ibanez produce. I don't think I've ever played U.S made Nordstrands, so I couldn't say. It could simply be that I don't prefer the "Nordstrand sound".
EDIT: Just noticed that this is a 2 year old video 😅
Haha no worries. TBH I think Nordstrand pickups can cover a wide array of tones depending on the models. These style pickups to tend to be on the brighter side. I'm a big fan of their blade pickups more
Between that and the ATK got to be the best bang for your buck of them all
PJ set. Noice
EDIT: after watching the video, I'm not a fan of the J pick-up. My Squier is less noisy, and it was only 250€. The P is very rich though
Thanks dGladiator! I agree, the P is the start of the show and the bridge pickup seems like an afterthought.
I would like to see a review of the Schecter Research Model T-5 bass reviewed. It looks very nice and has EMG P&J pickups.
Nice review! Would you use this bass to replace a fender pj?
Probably not because of the balance issues and more readily available/plentiful pickup options
Great review
Thanks Andy!
That bass imo should have just been passive, idk why Eq's are added to basses. Its just stacking preamps. you have pedals with eq, the amp, and basses i just dont get it.
I like that suggestion, and for this bass I agree. Passive electronics with a hum cancelling J would have gone a long way.
@@LowEndLobster Ibanez should get on this, would make for an elite bass
Slappa da active/passive switch...funky stuff
Thanks BC!
Where else would you go for a S/S 5 string, Lobster? I don't know of many alternatives.
And yes, that pesky switch does indeed grate my knuckles when I try any slap style.
Seriously who thought it was a good idea to put that there!?
@@LowEndLobster 😂😂😂😂
Sounded best woth the bass at 50% imo it actually sounds better passive, I do like the headstock tho
Thanks Jeremy! I prefer the design on the ATK more than this, but it's all subjective. I really want to try the prestige Talman.
Hi man!! Love your channel!! I would like to see you reviewing the Jackson X Signature CBXM-IV David Ellefson Concert 4-String Bass Guitar White, it seems its a good bass. See you man!! Thanks a lot for your videos.
Thank you Francisco! Def plan on checking out more Jacksons including some Ellefson models this year :)
Ive never been a huge fan of ibanez basses but these might be more style.
Got any Uriah Heep basslines? :)
Thanks James! Probably in the repertoire somewhere ;P
"The G.A.S. is strong with this one" for me also, however it's *flatulence*
LOL Thanks BP
@@LowEndLobster This is so good I have to share, take a look! ruclips.net/video/qafTgd4e2TI/видео.html
Greetings! May I know the weight of the bass? is it balanced? thank you!
And this one!
Well, 3 claws isn’t exactly a glowing endorsement. Is there a 5-string in this price range that you’d recommend more highly?
Hey JP. There's a lot of choices. 3 claws doesn't make it a bad bass but an average value. It really depends what you are looking for tonally and feel wise as there are a LOT of options.
@@LowEndLobster Thanks for taking the time to reply! This one appealed because I’d heard it did the classic P sound well. If your only requirements were 5 strings and no soap bars what would be at the top of your list?
@@JPStephens Hrm... If you want the wider spacing that this has (18 or 17.5 I think), the Yamaha BB435 is a really cool option. If you want tighter spacing, the Ray24Ca is a good choice as well, or a used Ray34HH. I think the SUB Ray5HH delivers more than the Ibanez at its lower price point, but it's still a tier below and would compete with the next tier of TMB down. Hope that helps!
@@LowEndLobster I really appreciate it! I've definitely been looking at the SUB Ray5HH, and your review of it is far and away the most helpful I've seen. I'll have to take a closer look at the Yamaha. Thanks for taking the time to answer even as your channel is blowing up, and deservedly so!
Hello,
I was planning to buy the tmb500 4-string version. I have the tmb100 and I like it very much. No I am a bit unsure because of the bad feedback it gets here. I really like the option to play it active or passive with a passive tone controle. And I like the vintage look. Do you have an other recommendation in this price range? Thanks for the review.
Yamaha TRBX505
Or rather, TRBX 504 for the 4 string version. Yamaha have really solid passive, active, and combo basses. Can't go wrong with one!
Hey Lukas! Great question. The Yamahas that Lucy suggested are solid basses. I reviewed a 735A, and though it wasn't perfect, it's definitely a solid bass and the B434 would be a great passive option (I didn't like the B on the 5'er). I have yet to play a TRBX though. Other options would include the Sire P7 4 string and Cort options.
Mr. Lobster, do you think the Nordstrand electronics in the TMB505 could be put in a TMB35?
Great question! Not without modification as the housings are very different
@@LowEndLobster I have a TMB35 coming, so I will evaluate it and decide whether it justifies and upgrade to the electronics, presuming there is a PJ set of EMG or Bartolini that can replace the Dynamix without major modification. Or do you suppose Ibanez had the Dynamix designed so as not to be interchangeable? I'm still in pursuit of, at least, a medium quality 5 string short scale bass. I must also have a look at the Ibanez SRMD205 32 inch scale.
Doesn't the bass in the picture have a roasted neck with a laminate fingerboard?
Neck and fingerboard are both roasted maple. Fingerboard doesn't appear to be laminate from what I remember.
Anyone else notice how this has so many similarities with the Harley Benton JP55OP but somehow falls short even though its more than double the price? You could buy 2 of those for this price and get better basses.
I.would love to get a Talman TMB 505 or 605. The 605 natural is beautiful. Butt it looks like Ibanez discontinued those. I only find TMB35 and TMB10O or 105 a Sweetwater and Guitar Center. Why did they discontinue this model?
I had no idea this was discontinued! I chalk it up to Ibanez being Ibanez, they've discontinued more basses in the span of a few years than some companies have produced in their entire lifespan.
@@LowEndLobster I found a place on Reverb selling them and also Alto music says they are selling them. Confusing since so many places don't have and say they are discontinued.
Probably some remaining stock.
Not a fan of the lower end Ibanez. I almost bought an Ibanez instead of the Sterling; they were the same price. To be honest, I don’t remember the model name, but I feel like it sounded better at $230. It also had a battery door and no active/passive switch. The high end Ibanez is where that brand shines.
Picking the sterling was a way better choice by far my man!
@@bassimprovjams3772 I do agree. Thank you.
Thanks Everett! I agree, the low-mid range Ibanez basses seem to have potential but are missing the mark in several ways. The cheaper ones seem to be a lot more focused, and the more premium models also seem to be a lot better and more well rounded.
Hi! I would like to hear about your opinon ibanez srmd205
I gotta be honest - that sounds like a far hotter and slightly brighter version of my BB425X... *damn. now I want another bass...*
Interesting! I've been curious about the 42_X series of the BB's, I've only played the 414 and 735 thus far. Thanks Dig!
My Marcus Miller Fender didn’t have a battery door either. 4 screws!
Oooh hot damn. Scratches both my jaguar and tele vibes... Must resist!
:)
do you have toby tobias deluxe v bass i want to see a smooth review about it
But how does "she" balance on a strap? Does that shorter upper horn cause any neck dive or general sense of neck heaviness?
Neck dive, sadly. I'd think the 4 string might be a little better, but the short upper horn is doing no favors here.
@@LowEndLobster Yeah, that was my concern from looking at it. I'm digging it otherwise. I just sold a killer USA G&L bass of mine, along with a Les Paul cause of some neck heaviness. I can't live with that anymore.
That body shape annoys the daylights out of me, but it does sounds great! But why doesn’t Ibanez put a A/P option on their higher end Basses? I like the preamp set up on it, can’t stand that body shape.🤨🎶👍🏾
If you can track down an SR 650 series you'll get the same pickups in 4, 5, or 6 string SR flavours instead of the Talman.
@@stuntmusician6398 Yeah, I’m aware of the SR650 series, and Nordstrand sells the ‘official’ CND pickups for the Ibanez SR650 series. My only grip with the SR series it doesn’t have a A/P option as oppose to the talman series.
I stand corrected. They have what they EQ bypass switch with a “passive” control knob.
Thanks etpslick! Yeah the body style is love it or hate it. I know that there's an SR with the same electronics, but I'd love to see a PJ BTB!
@@LowEndLobster Hmm. That would be cool.🤔👍🏾
Anyone know what bass is in the background. All the way left tannish, single humbucker, semi hollow?
That's my Status Electro II fretless. Epic bass!
Did Ibanez produce a more expensive block inlay version of the Talman? I think i saw Steve "Baze" Basil from Machine Gun Kelly play one, but I didn't find any information online.
The tmb 300 and 600 have block inlays at around 400-600 bucks.. the tmb 2000 also has blocks but it's 1500+
Yes, they had the 600 with the ash body and block inlays as well as the 2000 prestige model.
I have a tmb310 with block inlays and binding. I love block inlays and I really wish they would bring them back. Tmbs have my favorite necks and I would love use them for other projects, but I want the inlays
I think their budget allowed for one or the other. An oven or shielding.
Oven: “I can roast necks/fretboards and cook pizza”
Cort CEO: Ok, nice
Shielding: “I can stop that annoying hum, therefore making the the bass useful for live shows and recording”
Cort: what else?
Shielding: “I can help keep snails out of your garden”
Cort: “PIZZA FOR LUNCH GUYS!!!”
I'm a huge fan of Nordstrand pickups and have used them for years. Carey's designs translate to great tone. I agree with you on the active/passive switch's placement. Plus the body shape is odd. I'm ambivalent about it, but it still is oddly shaped. You should get a RUclips award for best bass reviews. Totally cool, as always.
LMAO! Making me hungry ;P
@@LowEndLobster snails? Or pizza? Cheers lobster
@@PushSueAside Why not both? ;P
@@LowEndLobster exactly!
An Ibanez without the poopy barrel jack? 👀
LOL! Yup! Never thought I'd see the day ;P.
Your producer/Girlfriend is amazing great 80s song audible.
Thank you! :)
Oh yeah,great review. I don't want to be a "buzz" killer. What would you do to eliminate it?
"...the G.A.S. is strong with this one...."😅😉
Thanks Crusader!
@@LowEndLobster *coughs in G&L clearance sale*
What is the correct phrase: “Ibanez is cool” or “Ibanez are cool”?
Yes
I agree.
For the price of that bass I would rather buy a sterling sub and then upgrade the preamp and the pickup
Indeed!
Nice bass for ibanez try more riffs please and go wilder.
Thanks Ram! I appreciate your enthusiasm :). I'm more about showcasing the bass rather than showing off my chops. My goal is to illustrate how the bass will sound for folks rather than trying to play fancy songs.
4:11 a Kelpy G reference?
I don't know who that is lol
It sounds great but I would leave it hanging... 💙👊😎
Thanks Carl-Samuel! :)
In and around the lake...my people say unhh kinda meh
LOL yup
Call me weird or whatever, I'll hold my hands up to that but if they sold this in metallic brown I'd buy one 100%
I like your style
I like it but, I don't love it. it seems , to me, that there are much better options in this price range.
Thanks Jason, I agree!
About battery door ...for my personal opinion...it's not good ..I have battery door of my Yamaha TRBX 304..it's jumping out.....well screw battery door is better I think
Lobster, I have the TMB600. Ash body that weighs a ton. And fret ends were some of the worst I've seen on any bass in that price bracket. Now that its playable, I can say I do enjoy the sound. Only problem is that its not a 5 string. They didn't bring any 5s in to my home country. So......... I think we need to have a private chat........IYKWIM 😉😊😂
Thanks Jean-Paul! Hit me up privately if you're interested, I think I am going to sell this one. I have a biz account so shipping shouldn't be as terrible. Instagram or discord is best :)
Looks cool but the sound didn't hit right
Thanks Ross!
I think it sounds good but the body shape is a bit uggy
Thanks Froge! Indeed the body is love it or hate it.
Not a fan of it, that B is weak lol. I'd take a Harley benton first
Thanks! Just got one of the matte black stingray harley benton things... and it's a 5'er ;). More soon.
They should of dun better on this one!
Yup! It has some cool features, but the apparent sacrifices are apparent.
Ugliest headstock of any guitar or bass ever made, I would buy this bass if not for the boat paddle headstock.
Ibanez typically gets everything right and I own many Ibanez bass’s and guitars, but no way will I ever buy this boat paddle headstock bass.