Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $4,444

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "1998 Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

The 1998 Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature is more than just an electric bass—it's a testament to precision craftsmanship and musical versatility. Designed in collaboration with the legendary bassist Nathan East, this 5-string powerhouse seamlessly combines sophisticated style with exceptional sound quality. The BBeast is crafted with a stunning alder body and a maple top, providing a rich, resonant tone that is both warm and articulate.

The neck-through-body construction, made from a blend of mahogany and maple, offers incredible sustain and stability, while the ebony fingerboard ensures a smooth playing experience across its 24 jumbo frets. The dual Alnico V stack humbuckers at the neck and bridge deliver a dynamic range of tones, from deep, punchy lows to crystal-clear highs, perfectly complemented by the NE-1 Parametric EQ and a 3-band EQ for unparalleled tonal shaping.

Designed for the discerning bassist, the BBeast features a master volume, balance, mid cut frequency controls, and a dedicated mid cut on/off switch, allowing you to tailor your sound with precision. The BPZ-7 bridge and gold hardware not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to its robust performance, ensuring this bass remains a staple in your collection for years to come.

Key Features:

  • 5-String Electric Bass
  • Body: Alder, Top: Maple
  • Neck-through-body neck: Mahogany, maple
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Scale: 864 mm (34")
  • 24 Jumbo frets
  • Pickup: Alnico V stack humbucker (neck and bridge)
  • NE-1 Parametric EQ
  • Master Volume, Balance, 3-band EQ, Mid Cut Frequency controls
  • Mid Cut On/Off switch
  • BPZ-7 bridge
  • Gold hardware
  • Made in Japan

Product specs

Available since August 2022
Signature Nathan East
Colour Black
Body Alder
Soundboard Maple
Neck Maple, Mahogany
Fretboard Ebony
Frets 24
Scale Longscale
Pickups HH
Electronics Active
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No
Limited No
Number of strings 5
Pickup System HH
Elektronic Active
Elektronics Active
Case included Yes

FAQs

What kind of music is the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature best suited for?

The Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature is versatile and excels in genres like jazz, funk, and rock due to its active electronics and HH pickup configuration, offering a wide range of tones.

How does the neck profile of the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature affect playability?

The neck of the Yamaha BBeast combines maple and mahogany, providing a smooth, comfortable feel ideal for fast playing and complex bass lines, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced players.

What is the tonal characteristic of the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature's pickups?

The HH pickup system on the Yamaha BBeast offers a powerful, punchy sound with clear articulation, suitable for both slap and fingerstyle techniques.

Does the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature come with a case?

Yes, the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature includes a case for protection and easy transport.

Is the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature a limited edition model?

No, the Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature is not a limited edition model, allowing more bass enthusiasts to experience its quality and craftsmanship.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1998 Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature.

Comparisons

  • The TRBX505 outshines comparable models like Ibanez and Squier in terms of neck feel and weight, making it a preferred choice for newcomers and experienced players alike.

    Source

User experience

  • A BBNE2 owner notes its powerful sound can "make the house shake," highlighting the model's exceptional resonance and volume.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that Yamaha instruments, including their basses, are constructed with durability comparable to their motorcycles and jet skis, reflecting robust build quality.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's been mentioned that the TRBX505 may require fret edge shaving and a setup out of the box to achieve optimal playability.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Eric Clapton uses 1998 Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Bonhams

in Amber Burst finish, with gold-plated metal parts, alder body with figured maple cap, maple bolt-on neck, twenty-four fret ebony fingerboard with split block inlays the lowest engraved ERIC CLAPTON, figured maple headstock facing with YAMAHA and Nathan East signature in black, brass tailpiece with five adjustable saddles, two double coil pickups, active circuit, five rotary controls, the back of the body signed and inscribed in black felt pen For Eric With Love Nathan East 1998; and a black Yamaha rectangular hardshell case with black plush lining containing various accessories including owner's manual and lead; and handwritten label with various inscriptions including Honeyburst 5 string from 'Nate'. This guitar was given to Eric Clapton by Nathan East.

See how Rahul Ram uses 1998 Yamaha BBeast Nathan East Signature

Rahul Ram

Singer, Bassist

Indian Ocean

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:25 into this video he is seen playing this bass guitar.

Genre Usage

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

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