Kubicki Extender/Pre-Blaster Prototype :: 1991-ish :: Made in Japan

Here is the mystery bass instrument of the month for Reverb.   As many know, Phil Kubicki made the amazing Kubicki Factor Bass, and in the late 1980's there were discussions with overseas companies about the possibility of licensing.   This may have not been Phil's desires, it may have been a hand that was forced upon him as there were companies wanting to copy his design and then get him to "bless" it.   According to online research, it appears no documents were ever signed.   Although this is modelled after a Factor, it is obviously not trying to BE a copy as there are too many obvious things different.

This bass had "extender" factory painted on it and underneath “Licensed by Phillip Kubicki Guitar Technology USA”. We refinished it in a factory colour matching grey color.  It had some pretty rough dings on it which was why we did it.

It has all kinds of trademarks that resemble a Blaster exactly. (Non-scalloped neck back, 23 frets, reverse sloping headstock) etc... It does also have the unique 22 layer laminated neck. And before someones yells C O P Y,  it is to be noted that for someone to copy, but have that many things different seems like a complete waste of time especially taking the machine work of the bridge alone into account.  After spending hours of online research, I would believe that this was an attempt by an offshore company to make something that Phil would agree to let them license.  It never came to pass, and hence the unique one off bass we have here.  If you have any other info, we would love to add it.  This is a chance to have something really rare, as I am unaware of any other models just like it.

The bass has been set up nicely.   The frets are at about 70%.   There's some slight grooves.   The saddle wheels on the bridge have been chewed down a bit, but function just fine.  This is because it appears the original owner used a screwdriver to move the wheel instead of a wood dowel.