The latest cost performance model from revered Tokyo based maker, Atelier Z.
This is the signature model of Hikaru Yamamoto, bassist from all girl J-rock band, Aoo.
It is basically the same base spec as the M265, but has no bypass switch or master tone, just simple treble and bass controls on the Bartolini xtct preamp.
The hardware is also basic comared to the high end range, being simple nickel plated Musicman style tuners and a semi-high mass nickel bridge with steel barrel saddles, instead of the oem Atelier Z bridge. That said, the hardware works well and is reliable.
The main body is very well matched three-piece ash in a stunning inked, transparent blue, and the body top is flame maple veneer.
Compared to the M265, it sounds very similar and playability is also very close too, with excellent, precise fret-work and a very well cut bone nut. The pickups are the same so you get that Z sound at half the price of the M265!
It is an exceptional bass for the money.
Body core . 3 piece Ash
Body top. Flame maple veneer
Neck. Rosewood on rift-sawn maple
Scale. 34"
Grip. Thin D
Nut. Bone 46mm
Frets. Silver nickel, medium jumbo (21)
Inlays. Pearl block
Binding. White with black side dots
Pickups. Atelier Z JZ5 Alnico V
Preamp. Bartolin xtct with spectrum boost
Controls. Vol, vol, treb, bass.
Bridge. Semi high mass type. 17mm spacing
Tuners. Nickel plated musicman style.
Weight. 4.2kg
Case. Atelier Z gig bag
