Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,710

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

G&L SB2 JJ 1983 The G&L MFD J type pickups are big, clear and hot: a lot of output, with broad even response. Controls are volume and tone, with a Stratocaster-esque pickup selector for neck only/both/bridge only.

Marcin Pendowski

Marcin Pendowski

G&L USA SB2 SOUND TEST

Video thumbnail for G&L USA SB2 SOUND TEST by Marcin Pendowski

G&L USA SB2 SOUND TEST

Marcin Pendowski

Marcin Pendowski

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about G&L SB-2 1983.

Features and functionality

  • The MFD splitcoil pickup on the SB-2 is significantly louder than a standard P pickup, with a warm, fat tone at 75-90% volume.

    Source
  • The bridge pickup, while adding attack and punch, is too weak to use solo due to its lower output compared to the neck pickup.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners suggest adding a tone knob, available in models like the SB-2T, for enhanced tonal control.

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Value and pricing

  • G&L SB-2 offers a wide range of customizable options (colors, finishes, neck profiles) at reasonable prices, making it easier to order compared to Fender.

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  • A 1983 SB-2 was purchased for $800, highlighting its perceived value among enthusiasts for vintage models.

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Comparisons

  • Compared to Fender, G&L is noted for offering more consistent quality and better value for the money.

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User experience

  • Owners describe the bass as having significant "growl" and requiring volume and tone adjustments for optimal headroom.

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Build quality

  • An owner noted the 1983 model had extensive buckle rash and fret wear, suggesting previous heavy use or touring.

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Setup and maintenance

  • It's been observed that older models like the 1985 version may require fret work.

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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Kevin Rutmanis uses G&L SB-2 1983

Kevin Rutmanis

Bassist

Melvins

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Verified via Photo

Kevin Rutmanis played a G&L SB-2 1983 bass during his time with the Cows and Melvins. This model is essentially the precursor to the Lynx. [Source: User-uploaded photo]

See how Alan Gevaert uses G&L SB-2 1983

Alan Gevaert

Singer, Bassist

Deus

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Verified via Photo

In this pic you can spot his well used and vintage G&L SB-2 bass

See how Matt Noveskey uses G&L SB-2 1983

Matt Noveskey

Bassist, Music Producer

Blue October

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Verified via BassPlayer.com

Listed in his Gear section at bottom of page

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use G&L SB-2 1983, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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