1979 Yamaha SB-500S Super Bass SB500S Violin Burst BB JB Killer MIJ Japan

Offered is a 1979 Yamaha SB-500S "Super Bass", a vintage Japanese-made instrument often described as a "Jazz Bass killer" due to its punchy output and high-quality construction. In the late '70s, Yamaha positioned the Super Bass series as a high-performance alternative to standard American designs. Unlike the more famous neck-through BB series, the SB-500S utilized a bolt-on neck to provide a tighter, more "lively" attack, and was made only between 1979 and 1982 as a late-model refinement.

Sound Profile: It's frequently described as having a classic Jazz Bass "growl" but with a darker, more powerful output that feels almost active despite being passive.

Build Quality: It's renowned among players and collectors in the know for its "rock solid" build, noting that the frets and hardware often remain in solid playing condition even after 40+ years.

Exclusivity: This model was primarily produced for the Japanese domestic market, making vintage original 1970s pieces relatively scarce in North America and Europe.

Technical Specs:

Body: Solid Nato (also known as Eastern Mahogany).

Neck: One-piece maple, bolt-on construction; features a chunky profile similar to a 1950s Precision Bass.

Fingerboard: Maple with 21 frets and black dot inlays.

Scale Length: 34"

Nut Width: 1-5/8"

Pickups: Two original Yamaha Alnico single-coil "JB-type" pickups with '70s Jazz spacing.

Controls: 2 Volume, 1 Tone (Passive).

Bridge: Original Yamaha high-mass bridge.

Tuners: Original Yamaha open-gear "poppy flower" vintage-style tuners.

The bass comes exactly as pictured. There are moderate age-appropriate player wear throughout, but nothing that really jumps out at you. Truss rod is a bit stiff for its age, but turns fine. Original tuning gears have been reinforced with teflon tape to stabilize tuning, as pictured. Bass looks, plays, records, and sounds great. There is no case, but it will be properly bubble packed for safe shipping. Please review all closeup photos carefully as they're an integral part of the item description.

Terms: Please contact me for payment options. Payment must be received within 3 days of sale or the item will be relisted. Buyer pays $99 shipping within the USA 48 - I will provide online tracking as shipping confirmation. Please review all pictures carefully as they're an integral part of the item description. Any known issues with used items are highlighted to the best of my knowledge, so please ask all questions before purchasing if you need anything specific. Item is exactly as pictured and described, sold as-is, and all sales are final. Thanks for your interest and please check out my other listings!!