JayDee since John Diggins' passing

[HeadlessBassist]

Hi everyone, I'm thinking of ordering a new JayDee Supernatural. Since John Diggins died at the beginning of 2024, I understand that his two sons have continued the business. Has anyone commissioned/received a build in the last year or so? I'm wondering what the quality is currently like and whether or not I should take the plunge?

[NancyJohnson]

There's a similar thought to a different builder, here.  I'm uncertain how many luthiers Jaydee employ(ed).

 

When Mike Lull died a few years ago, his son Spencer took over the business; my understanding is that Lull had outsourced elements of the builds when demand exceeded the limits of the workshop.

 

Spencer changed things by bringing work back in house and by stripping back the models they offered (focus is now on Precision/Jazz type models).  He seems considerably more hands on from a socials perspective, too.  From what I've seen and read, quality seems to be as good, if not better, than previously.

 

Perhaps all it takes is new blood to take over.  They know the legacy of the brand and want to invest in that.

 

 

[HeadlessBassist]

Well I've sent them an email re going down to the workshop and trying whatever they have to demo and to discuss options. We'll see what comes back...

[MichaelDean]

One of the guitarists in my band has an Iommi SG on order with them. Deposit was paid in 2023. They're not responding to any emails. He should have had it late last year and they're just ignoring him. I keep telling him to call, but he's not taken my advice so far. 

[HeadlessBassist]

Thanks Michael. I may stop by the workshop next time I'm in Brum if I don't hear anything.

[Bassfinder]

I’ve got 3 and throughly recommend! 
 

A very long wait time currently but worth every second 👍🏼

[jazzyvee]

Jaydee are across town from me and  i’ve taken my basses and guitars there for many years. I know his sons have been working there for many years with John so I would be inclined to think they are more than capable of keeping up the standard set by John. That said there is lots to be said about age and experience. John’s designs, ideas and building methods were developed over many decades and no doubt will continue to evolve over time sons. So it would be interesting to see if the sons stick to his classic designs or come out with new models in the future. I have yet to own a Jaydee and there is a part of me that wants to but i’d prefer something different from the classics. 
 

Edited March 25 by jazzyvee

[Captain Bassman]

There’s this guy on YouTube (J Bass / J Bass42) demoing his new custom Series 1 Classic;

 

 

The video was posted up a month ago and from the comments he’s only very recently taken delivery of the bass. He has a Level 42 fan page on facebook apparently so you could try contacting him through there?

 

BTW, that’s my GA24 custom in your post 😁. Commissioned in 2007 and delivered 18 months later.

 

Good luck!