Yamaha BB Series

BEYOND CLASSIC.

The latest in Yamaha's storied BB Series of bass guitars delivers the superb sound and build quality that this series is known for in a smaller body with even better playability. Featuring an alder/maple/alder construction for quicker transmission of sound from the strings to the body and neck, a firmer 6-bolt miter neck joint for improved stability, and custom-wound pickups that achieve higher output gain while retaining the classic BB voicing, the latest lineup of BB basses are a testament to our commitment to musical excellence.

THE LEGACY CONTINUES

In the BB Series, Yamaha has always sought to offer bassists nothing less than a pure bass guitar. Forgoing passing technical fads in favor in proven technologies and production techniques, every model in the BB Series has been a product of our commitment to creating a bass that allows you to build your own sound rather than defining one for you. These latest models continue this tradition of reliable excellence in superbly crafted bass guitars that you can depend on to give you the sound you need, in any situation.

Built for the Working Bassist

What are bassists really looking for in their chosen instrument? The perfect sound? Versatility? Durability? All of the above and so much more. We've spent decades working closely with artists who practice their craft at the highest levels of recording and live performance to help us forge a clear vision of what working professionals demand of their basses in every capacity. By incorporating this invaluable, real-world experience and insight into practical approaches to the BB Series' design, construction, and ultimately its legendary tone, this collaboration has been the impetus behind this iconic instrument's continuing evolution as the hardest working bass in the business.

Penetrating Sound

Think of any great bassist and you'll likely hear one of their more memorable bass lines, techniques, or solos playing in your head. You'll also most certainly recall the signature sound that helped define their unique identity as a musician and made them stand out as a real presence in the band they have performed or recorded with. Throughout the BB's 40-year history, Yamaha has worked closely with some of the most accomplished bassists in the business to craft that unmistakable BB sound— constantly evaluating their ideas and feedback to create the right sound for the music of the moment. The latest series features a miter neck joint that has won praise in the Billy Sheehan Signature/Attitude Limited III lineup, by increasing the efficiency of vibration transmission to the body for a more resonant, organic feel and tone. It also features an alder/maple/alder construction that sandwiches maple into the center of the body for a crisper, richer sound, and impressive resonance.

A New Take on a Classic Design

We all know the old adage about not fixing things that aren't broken, but that doesn't mean you can't make subtle, practical, or stylistic modifications to benefit performance and aesthetic—even to a proven design like the BB Series. The latest lineup has undergone a significant redesign with subtle contour changes and body weight reduction made out of consideration to playability and comfort, while still retaining the classic silhouette of the BB body and head design. The differences are subtle, but you'll definitely feel them. The latest models also feature standard sized pickups for the first time in a BB, for more convenient customization or replacement.

Alder/Maple/Alder Body Construction

The new BB features an alder/maple/alder laminated body construction. The hard maple center increases body stiffness and accentuates midrange to cut through a band mix, and allows a more uniform transmission of vibrations between the body and the maple neck for unparalleled resonance and sustain. (BB Pro, BB700 Series)

6-bolt miter neck joint

Miter bolting holds the neck closer and tighter to the body, fusing these two separate components into one. Compared to a conventional bolt-on joint, miter bolting offers more efficient transfer of string vibration throughout the body, for outstanding sustain and resonance that brings every note to life. (BB Pro, BB700, BB400 Series)

Custom-Wound Pickups

BB's custom-wound pickups are designed to fit standard pickup cavities and feature a medium-high output with vintage voicing for great tone in any setting. BB basses come with pickups selected specifically to match the distinct character of each model in the series, delivering a uniquely versatile sound while retaining the classic BB tone.

Convertible Bridge and Saddle for Precise Tone Shaping

BB basses incorporate “Diagonal Body Thru Stringing” where strings are angled at the saddle and pass through the instrument to the bridge at a 45-degree angle. Strings can also be sent to the tail end of the bridge, which comes equipped with a convertible saddle that can be adjusted to two different angles for more precise tonal shaping and feel. The rounder side of the saddle gives a slightly duller sound, while the more angled area of the saddle produces a slightly tighter one. The 700 and Pro are equipped with the Vintage Plus Bridge, designed with a diagonal cut at the string’s contact point on the saddle to form a more stable fulcrum and produce a clear, well-shaped sound. Brass saddles deliver a slightly deeper low-end, while the steel bridge plate offers more response. All screws and springs are made of stainless steel to guard against corrosion. The 400 is equipped with a “Vintage Light” bridge with an offset low E string.

*Long-scale strings are recommended when stringing through the bridge and super long-scale strings are recommended when stringing through the body.