Yamaha SB-55 Bass 1975 Sunburst – Documented MIJ Vintage w/ Original Case & Papers

The Yamaha SB-55 was introduced during one of the most interesting periods in Japanese guitar manufacturing. Built by Nippon Gakki, Yamaha's legendary factory, these basses were designed as original instruments rather than copies of American classics. While many Japanese manufacturers of the era focused on Fender-inspired designs, Yamaha followed its own path, developing a distinctive body shape, pickup design and construction philosophy.

The SB-55 belongs to Yamaha's original SB (Super Bass) series, produced before the later Super Bass 500, SBV and other derivative models appeared. These early instruments have developed a strong reputation for their build quality, unique appearance and warm, articulate tone that stands apart from contemporary Fender-style basses.

According to the original Yamaha warranty card, this bass was purchased new in Japan on March 30, 1975. It remains in remarkably well-preserved condition for a 50-year-old instrument. It comes with its original Yamaha hard case, original documentation, bridge cover and original adjustment tools—an increasingly rare combination.

Fitted with a brand-new set of Pyramid Black Tape Nylon 648/1 strings, this bass produces an exceptionally warm, deep and woody tone with excellent note definition. The black tapes complement the SB-55 exceptionally well, giving it a character that is quite different from most vintage Japanese basses.

The two volume potentiometers have been replaced with quality modern equivalents, and all three control knobs are tasteful vintage-style replacements. Everything else appears to remain original, including the pickups, electronics, bridge, tuners and hardware.

Specifications

• Year: 1975
• Made in Japan (Nippon Gakki)
• Serial Number: 13235
• Finish: Sunburst
• Body: Solid Nato
• Pickups: Yamaha single-coil pickups
• Weight: 4.3 kg
• Scale Length: Approximately 34" (864 mm)
• Nut Width: Approx. 38 mm
• Neck: Bolt-on Maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood

Condition

Overall, the bass is in very good vintage condition.

The finish shows only honest cosmetic wear consistent with nearly five decades of careful use. The neck is straight, the truss rod functions correctly and the instrument plays comfortably across the fingerboard.

All electronics work as they should.

The original Yamaha hard case remains fully functional and still bears handwritten period markings reading "Muse" and "Blues now", adding a charming piece of its documented history.

Documentation & Accessories

A rare and unusually complete documentation package is included:

• Original Yamaha warranty card (dated March 30, 1975)
• Original Yamaha SB-55 owner's manual
• Original Yamaha hard case
• Original bridge cover
• Original Yamaha adjustment tools

Finding a mid-1970s SB-55 with its original paperwork, accessories and hard case is becoming increasingly uncommon.

Notes

Please note that some close-up photographs reveal minor dust particles under strong lighting. These are not finish defects.

Shipping

Ships from the European Union (Estonia). No import duties for EU buyers.

The instrument will be carefully packed to ensure safe transit and shipped via a tracked courier service.

Fully insured and/or express shipping options (DHL, UPS or FedEx) are available upon request.

Minor setup adjustments may be required after transportation and climate adaptation.

Additional Information

Please feel free to message me if you have any questions or would like additional photographs.

More soul-approved vintage Japanese and carefully handpicked basses are available through Gruuvik Chamber — no hype, just the good ones. 👊