G&L Tribute SB2 Electric Bass Review: A Versatile and Affordable Beast
The world of electric bass guitars is vast and diverse, with a seemingly endless array of options to suit every player’s needs, preferences, and budget. Among the many brands and models available, G&L stands out as a company that consistently produces high-quality instruments that cater to a wide range of musicians. One such offering is the G&L Tribute SB2 Electric Bass, a versatile and affordable option that doesn’t skimp on quality or performance. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into the features, sound, and overall value of the Tribute SB2 Electric Bass to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your musical journey.
G&L: A Legacy of Innovation
Founded in 1979 by Leo Fender, George Fullerton, and Dale Hyatt, G&L has a rich history rooted in innovation and excellence. As the brainchild of the legendary inventor of the Fender Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Precision Bass, G&L was established with the goal of surpassing the previous creations of its founders in terms of playability, tone, and overall performance.
Since its inception, G&L has been dedicated to using top-notch materials and components, coupled with cutting-edge designs and manufacturing techniques. The result is a lineup of electric guitars and basses that have garnered a reputation for exceptional quality, versatility, and value for money.
Design and Features of the G&L Tribute SB2 Electric Bass
The G&L Tribute SB2 Electric Bass is a modern take on the classic P-Bass design, featuring a comfortable and sleek body shape, a bolt-on neck, and a powerful pickup configuration. Crafted from high-quality basswood, which is known for its lightweight characteristics and balanced tonal properties, the body offers excellent resonance and a comfortable playing experience. The double-cutaway design ensures easy access to the higher frets, while the contoured body shape provides ergonomic comfort during long playing sessions.
The neck of the Tribute SB2 is constructed from hard rock maple and is available with either a maple or rosewood fingerboard. With a 34″ scale length and a medium “C” profile, this bass offers a fast and smooth playing experience that caters to players of all styles and abilities. G&L’s patented six-bolt attachment system securely fastens the neck to the body, guaranteeing maximum stability and sustain.
The Tribute SB2 Electric Bass comes equipped with a powerful pickup configuration that includes a G&L Magnetic Field Design (MFD) humbucker in the bridge position and a split-coil pickup in the neck position. This versatile combination allows for a wide range of tonal possibilities, from warm and fat to punchy and aggressive. The electronics consist of a master volume control, a pickup blend control, and a master tone control, providing a simple yet effective way to shape your sound.
A standout feature of the Tribute SB2 Electric Bass is the G&L Saddle-Lock bridge. This innovative design incorporates a small set screw on the side of the bridge, which locks the saddles together for improved sustain and resonance. The bridge also features individual string height and intonation adjustments, allowing you to achieve the perfect setup tailored to your playing style and preferences.
Performance and Sound
The G&L Tribute SB2 Electric Bass delivers a versatile and powerful sound that can easily adapt to a wide variety of musical genres. The combination of the lightweight basswood body, maple neck, and MFD humbucker and split-coil pickups results in a well-balanced tone with plenty of clarity, warmth, and punch. The pickup blend control allows you to fine-tune the balance between the two pickups, giving you the ability to dial in your ideal sound.
The G&L Saddle-Lock bridge plays a significant role in the overall tone and sustain of the bass, providing a solid and stable foundation for the strings. The individual string height and intonation adjustments make it easy to achieve a comfortable and precise setup, ensuring optimal playability and intonation.
The Tribute SB2 Electric Bass is suitable for a wide range of playing styles, from fingerstyle to slap bass, thanks to its smooth neck profile and well-balanced tonal characteristics. Whether you’re playing jazz, rock, funk, or anything in between, this bass has the versatility and quality to deliver the sound and performance you need.
Conclusion
The G&L Tribute SB2 Electric Bass is an affordable, high-quality, and versatile instrument that offers exceptional performance and value for money. Its modern take on the classic P-Bass design, combined with innovative features such as the G&L Saddle-Lock bridge and MFD humbucker and split-coil pickups, make it a worthy addition to any bass player’s arsenal.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable and easy-to-play instrument, or a seasoned professional seeking a versatile and high-quality bass at an affordable price point, the Tribute SB2 Electric Bass is an excellent choice. With its blend of classic design, innovative features, and outstanding performance, it stands as a testament to the legacy of Leo Fender and the G&L brand.
