DS5 Cedar Fretless 32" Scale Bass #1647. This custom instrument has many unique features. The body is a semi-hollow construction, with the Deep 5 shape, however it is the standard body thickness (hence the “S” in the title for shallow). It has a 400+ year old western red cedar top, with gorgeous color variation in the grain. The cedar wood gives a clear airy top end, which is warm sounding at the same time. The midrange punch of the alder makes it a perfect match. In addition, the body has a Brazilian rosewood “sustain block” that was built into the alder body early in the construction. The 32” scale neck is 3 pieces of mahogany with two ebony strips. This type of laminate construction is crucial for basses strung E to C, as each piece of wood has a different resonant frequency, therefore reducing dead spots. It also makes a stiff neck allowing proper sustain for the high C string. The mahogany is a warm sounding wood, which pairs well with the high C string, keeping it full as you play through the range. The unlined fingerboard is ebony, with integrated thumbrest option. The headstock has a Goncalo Alves overlay on the headstock.

In addition to the standard piezo pickup, this bass also features a custom made magnetic pickup in a wooden housing. The piezo gives a very wide frequency response, whereas the magnetic humbucker is more midrange focused, allowing the two work nicely together to make a big, beautiful tone. Of course you can use each pickup solely as well; they each have a distinct personality. The controls are piezo volume, magnetic volume, and a stacked master tone control, with treble & bass, cut and boost.

Custom instruments have not been offered for several years, however in the past I would often make an “extra” set of parts, while I had the machines set up, so in this case, these parts have been in the wings for several years…and now finally have become a finished instrument. I usually do not write such a long description for an instrument, however in this case I feel that the unique features call for it.

A custom made form fit G&G hardshell case (made locally in Los Angeles) is included.