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Description
The Aria Pro II SB-1000 is a classic in the world of electric bass guitars, renowned for its distinctive tone and craftsmanship. Originally introduced in the late 1970s, this bass has been a favorite among professional musicians for its unique sound and reliable performance. Known for its neck-through construction, the SB-1000 offers exceptional sustain and resonance, making it a staple for both studio sessions and live performances.
The SB-1000 features a single MB-1E double coil pickup, which delivers a powerful and articulate sound that bassists crave. The active electronics with a 6-position rotary control allow for precise tonal shaping, giving players the flexibility to cover a wide range of musical styles. The bass is equipped with a versatile 18V EQ system, providing a dynamic range of expressive options.
Crafted with attention to detail, the bass's solid maple body and rosewood fingerboard ensure durability and a smooth playing experience. The 24-fret design allows for extensive playing range, making it suitable for both traditional and modern bass techniques. Whether you're laying down a groove or taking the lead, the SB-1000 is built to impress with its playability and sound quality.
Key Features:
- Neck-through body construction
- Single MB-1E double coil pickup
- Active electronics with 6-position rotary control
- 18V EQ system for dynamic tonal control
- Solid maple body
- Rosewood fingerboard with 24-fret design
Videos
zumazmusic
Aria Pro II SB-1000 - bass review
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Aria Pro II SB-1000.
Comparisons
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Owners note the Aria Pro II SB-1000 feels similar in weight to a J-bass, countering its reputation for being excessively heavy.
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The SB1000 has a very narrow bridge spacing with wide nut spacing, unlike the Jazz bass-like wide bridge and narrow nut spacing of the SB-R60 and Black n Gold models.
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The SB1000's ebony fretboard differs from the rosewood fretboards found on SB-R60 and Black n Gold models, impacting playability and tone.
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User experience
Use cases and applications
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Known for its powerful sound, this bass is frequently used for covers of songs by Metallica and Duran Duran, indicating its versatility in rock genres.
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Features and functionality
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Despite its reputation, the recent model is reported to be comfortable for extended play, suggesting improvements in ergonomics.
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The SB1000 uses an MB1E dual coil humbucker with an active varitone rotary preamp, contributing to its unique tonal capabilities.
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The SB1000's active EQ is controlled by a recessed knob positioned lower than the others, with a LED indicator that blinks when connected.
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Build quality
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The SB1000 features an anodized aluminum lid in two pieces for the electronics bay, distinguishing it from other models.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings
93
Amazing
I've played many basses but this one stuck out the most to me. the 6 switch rotary knob the and the gnarly tones you can get are pretty great for any genre of music
Artist usage
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Cliff used during year 1985 the Aria pro II SB-1000 before playing on an SB-Black'n'Gold.
Sothebys sold by auction Jack Bruce's SB1000 in 2015 for 3,750 GBP.
Jack Bruce ARIA PRO II SB BASS GUITAR IN NATURAL FINISH, 1980 serial number 088047, five piece through-neck headstock with walnut facia, four chrome tuners, "The Aria Pro II" transfer and patent details, rosewood fingerboard with mother-of-pearl dot inlays, twenty-two frets, double cutaway body, single pick up, three rotary control knobs, one mini selector switch, brass bridge tailpiece, one gilt metal back plate, in black rectangular Aria Pro II hardshell case with green plush lining
CATALOGUE NOTE Jack used this bass amongst others for the 1980 Jack Bruce and Friends Tour with Clem Clempson. Footage from a concert for the German TV show Rockpalast during the tour shows Jack using this Aria. Sold with a certificate of authenticity signed by Jack Bruce.
In 1982, Mike Oldfield played an Aria Pro II SB-1000 bass guitar, as shown in a live performance photo on Tubular.
Nigel John Taylor frequently used the Aria Pro II SB-1000 as his main bass from 1981 to 1985, as evidenced in the photograph.
Besides from Billy's Aria Integra used in the late 80s, Billy Gould actually had an Aria Pro II in the early 80's, as seen in this clip of the band performing back in 1983, two years before the band's debut album. The Bass can clearly be seen between the 0:20 to the 0:40 second mark into the video.
In the video for 'Beat Surrender', we can immediately see Bruce dancing around playing an Aria Pro II SB bass.
https://gearspotting.com/gear/aria-pro-ii/
"I still think that the Aria Pro II bass is the best bass ever made."
- Quorthon
Let me tell you something. I recently got an offer from Kramer guitars. They wanted to offer me a deal, but I already have a deal with Aria and whereas I had to pay for those Kramer guitars, Aria gives me the guitars for free. So I bought this Kramer guitar and erased the "K" and "er", so it was called "ram", bought it for something like £ 140, and smashed it. Just to make a point. I use the Aria SB 1000 series
"We tend to start with bass sounds - analogue synths, or the really good dub bass you can get with this Aria Pro II..." He reaches for a living, breathing guitar.
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 Aria Pro II SB-1000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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