Last update 5/2/2024
The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 Bass has been a revelation in both design and sonic capabilities. The Bongo Bass 4 stands at the intersection of groundbreaking engineering and a profound understanding of what a bassist needs. Its unconventional butt-striking design isn’t just a visual statement, from its ergonomic body contours that hug the player to its well-crafted neck. Every detail speaks volumes about Music Man’s dedication to creating an instrument that transcends the ordinary.
What I like about the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 Bass
Table of contents
How does it sound
What captivates me most about the Bongo Bass is its sonic capabilities. It’s capable of thunderous lows to articulate highs. Beyond the audible prowess, the Bongo Bass’s choice of premium tonewoods for the top, back, and sides underscores its commitment to sonic excellence.
No slouch
Emerge from the ordinary with the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HH Electric Bass Guitar, a masterpiece of sonic versatility and effortless playability that redefines the boundaries of modern bass playing. Its meticulously crafted, resonant basswood body is adorned with a generous double-cutaway design, granting unfettered access to the upper register for two-octave fretwork. The fast-playing maple neck, crowned with an ebony fingerboard and 24 wide, high-profile frets, ensures a smooth and comfortable experience across the entire range.
The neck
A secure 5-bolt neck attachment ensures perfect alignment and unwavering stability, while the sculpted neck joint provides seamless access to the upper register, enabling you to explore the full expanse of your musical expression. An adjustable truss rod wheel allows for fine-tuning the neck relief, ensuring optimal action and unparalleled playing comfort.
The body
The Bongo 4 HH’s body cavity is shielded with graphite acrylic resin, effectively eliminating unwanted noise and hum, while the aluminum control cover adds a touch of elegance and durability. With its unconventional yet stunning design, unparalleled performance, and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HH Electric Bass Guitar stands as a testament to the art of modern bass guitar making.
The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HH Electric Bass Guitar, a 4-string instrument crafted for sonic versatility and effortless playability. Its lightweight, resonant basswood body features a generous double cutaway, providing unhindered access to the upper register for two-octave fretwork. The fast-playing maple neck boasts an ebony fretboard adorned with 24 wide, high-profile frets, ensuring smooth and comfortable hand movements across the entire range.
Pickups
At the heart of the Bongo 4 HH lies its dynamic duo of humbucking pickups, each armed with neodymium magnets to deliver a rich, punchy bass tone that cuts through the mix with authority. An active preamp with a versatile 4-band EQ grants you precise control over your sonic palette, shaping your sound from deep, rumbling lows to soaring, articulate highs.
Specifications
Number of Strings: 4
Left-/Right-handed: Right-handed
The Body Shape: Bongo
Color: Stealth Black
Body Material: Basswood
Neck Material: Maple
Body Finish: High Gloss Polyester
Neck Joint: 5-way Bolt-on
Radius: 11″
Fingerboard Material: Ebony
Fingerboard Inlay: Custom half-moons
Number of Frets: 24, high profile wide
Scale Length: 34″
Nut Width: 1.625″
Nut Material: Melamine
Bridge/Tailpiece: Music Man Black matte hardened steel bridge plate, stainless steel saddles
Tuners: Music Man lightweight tuners with tapered string posts
Neck Pickup: Music Man Neodymium Humbucker
Bridge Pickup: Music Man Neodymium Humbucker
Controls: 1 x volume, 1 x balance control, 4-band active EQ
Strings: Super Slinky Bass, .045-.100
Accessories
Gig Bag: Softshell Case
Pros
From my personal experience, the Bongo Bass excels in:
Versatile Tonal Palette: Its ability to cover a wide range of tones caters to diverse musical styles.
Comfortable Design: The ergonomic build ensures comfort during extended play sessions.
Impeccable Craftsmanship: The attention to detail in construction ensures reliability and longevity.
Innovative Aesthetics: While unconventional, its design stands as a bold statement in the world of bass guitars.
Cons
However, there are factors to consider:
Aesthetic Preference: The unique appearance may not appeal to those favoring traditional designs.
Price Point: The premium quality comes at a cost, potentially limiting accessibility for some budgets.
Warranty
Ernie Ball Music Man typically offers a limited warranty, providing assurance against defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period.
Conclusion
The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo Bass, through its unconventional yet innovative design, exceptional tonal range, and top-notch craftsmanship, has solidified its place as a prized asset for bassists. Despite personal aesthetic preferences or budget constraints, its unparalleled performance makes it a coveted choice for bass enthusiasts seeking excellence.
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Reference
Bongo 4 Ernie Ball Music Man basses. Available at: https://www.music-man.com/instruments/basses/bongo-4 (Accessed: 20 November 2023).
