M@23

My 735a arrived yesterday. First impressions are really favourable. There are a lot of useable sounds and the preamp seems great, useable and subtle, which suits someone that generally leans towards passive basses. The blend is great between pickups and a very slight bias toward the P pickup gives me what I’m after. The neck pocket isn’t as tight as my BBP35, or quite as well finished. Nor is the fretboard as nice of a slab of wood. But, that is fault finding and entirely expected. The pickups and bridge are superb and the matte black finish is very well done; in actual fact it is probably better than my Sandberg was. I forgot how flat the fingerboards were on them, but I don’t mind that and it was very easy to set up. It looks “sexy”, according to the other half. Feels great and is going to suit any gig. Not much to complain about, really.

I’m hoping the 735a is enjoyable in its own right. The BBP35 certainly had something special didn’t it? If only it weighed a touch less. I always really enjoy a passive bass that feels alive. The build and craftsmanship was undeniable too and the neck was perfect. I think the 735a shares components (?) so while it may not have the same magic, hopefully it feels X% of the way there.

I just bought my little RM rig home. RM EVO II 500w and 2x10. Sold it a year ago and the need for an amp and cab has just resurrected itself. Funnily enough, the person who bought it listed it a few days ago, used once in the year, along with my old Roqsolid cab cover, Ashdown amp bag and cables, £400. Bit his hand off to get it back and have been pleasantly reminded of what a fantastic setup this is.

I’ve got a 735a incoming, should be here tomorrow. Chosen as the BBP35 I owned was probably my favourite bass, and was regrettably sold. Looking forward to seeing how they compare!

I’m looking at the 5 string version. My last P bass was an Am Pro, which was fantastic. I’m a Sire fan, so be keen to see how they stack up. The Sire is significantly less expensive, but my V5 was cheaper than the Sadowsky it was supposed to play second fiddle to as well…

Ian bought my Fender P 5 recently(ish)! what a thoroughly easily and pleasant transaction. We spoke over the phone and via here and text and the whole deal was a pleasure. Lovely to chat to and a true bass player. A credit to the community. Thank you Ian, Matt

It just seems uneconomical to repair Markbass stuff now. I really like their gear, but everyone I know that has had an issue out of warranty has been burnt by repair costs. Much more than likely easier, quicker and cheaper to buy a 2nd hand amp and swap it over. Maybe recoup some of the cost by selling yours as a faulty unit!

Agreed, don’t limit yourselves and rule out good songs by only being a 3 piece. But, Phil X is basically the equivalent of 2 very proficient guitarists and a great vocalist! Same with Richie Kotzen. Huge sound for a 3 piece… but each of the 3 is a total master of their instrument.

Maybe we should start our own club! 😂 I hate the nail sound too and have 3 pairs of clippers about the house. My gig bag pair got lost and need replacing. I also hate nail biting (OCD/germ thing…) but, if needs must, in the car on the way to the venue the index and middle are getting gnawed! I do prefer playing with fingers, probably the feel of it more than the sound. I started on guitar and played bass with a pick in my first band. But since then it’s only been the odd song as required. I’d actually rather double thumb now and get the pick effect that way.

Facebook, or good old fashioned networking. Must be a few venues with open mics/jam nights locally?

Agreed. Not always the best option for the gig, but from a selfish point of view, way more fun.

Ok, first impressions are still solid. I’m very happy with this set up! The initial issue I had with the combo I briefly owned (volume dial acting more like an on/off switch) is definitely not the case here, it’s much more useable! It’s probably one of the best slap sounds I’ve had with the jazz bass. For £446, all in, posted and taxed, it’s a winner.

This arrived! Only spent 30 mins with it, but first impressions are great! Really tight, clear and punchy sound. Great slap sound, handles the low B really well. My mrs will kill me for not getting the painting done… so I’d better revisit it later! Already extremely tempted to make this a 4x10 set up.

Depends on the Markbass cab. If it’s 8ohm, then yes. If 4 ohm, then no. Unless you can disconnect the combo’s internal speaker and use only the Markbass.