Yamaha BBNE2 Nathan East Signature Model Electric Bass Black

Sonically the bass is the BEAST. Feeling the neck and fretboard there is room for improvement. Specifically the neck should be stripped of that ugly colour. Then the feeling might improve. Should be made at least in Tobacco colour and non coloured neck. Fretboard can remain as is.

Let me start by saying I have played bass for almost 50 years and have owned dozens of high end basses. Started taking lessons from a teacher about three years ago who played Yamaha basses which resulted in me buying a used TRB5PII which was my main bass for several years. In the last year I have also purchased a BBP35 and the bass I am reviewing, the BBNE2. The bass has the flexibility to cover any genre you might play. The variety of sounds available from this bass is fabulous. Playability is as good as it can get- easily adjustable truss rod works great, and you have 24 perfectly dressed frets on a lovely ebony board. Weight is average. The build quality is amazing. Whoever put this together really knew what they were doing, it is as well done or better than any other bass I have ever owned. I have owned Sadowskis, Zon, Warwick, Rob Allen, Rick Turner, Fender, Pedulla- the list goes on. I really have to say the build quality on the Yamaha smokes them all. My only gripe is I am not a real fan about the available color choices. I have a black one, and will say the finish is hardy for a painted instrument. But that is a pretty small gripe- the BBNE2 will be first call in my stable going forward. IMHO these basses are underpriced given the competition in the market and are an exceptional investment.

When I decided to make the jump to a 5 string. I decided to test out everything I could find. This is the bass I ended up purchasing. The moment I held it I knew it had knocked out most of the competition. The balance, feel, and the neck are fantastic. The neck doesn't feel any bigger than a 4 string even though it obviously is. You can dial into just about any tone you can think of. But what I love is that while this bass is about a versatile as is possible.It still has its own attitude It's not just a parrot. Also it should be noted that this bass is game and it wants to cut through. The bass and treble boost/cuts are strong (especially the bass). Finally this thing's build quality is just outstanding. I mean seriously you see one of these and they scream quality. Speaking of looking at it. These basses are gorgeous to look at. Seriously they're head turners. Get one. You need it.

First thing first, been eyeing this bass for while now but couldn't get my hands on it. So I did as much research as possible and ordered it. Was not disappointed at all! Very clean, smooth, versatile, playability is all there! It is on the heavy side through "beware"! Absolutely love it!

Great bass overall

I've own several high end basses Ken Smith,Pedulla, Fender MTD and Sire V7. This one is right up there with them in every category. Plays like butter and tones are clean and rounded. Low B wow!