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Average Price: $360

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Danelectro Hodad Bass is a standout in the world of electric bass guitars, offering players a unique blend of classic styling and modern functionality. Perfect for both stage and studio, this bass is known for its distinctive dual lipstick pickups, delivering a sound that's both rich and versatile. The Hodad Bass resonates with a vintage character while ensuring a contemporary playability that appeals to both seasoned musicians and beginners alike.

Crafted with a semi-hollow body, it provides a warm, resonant tone that sets it apart from solid-body options. The bass is well-suited for a variety of genres, from rock to jazz, thanks to its adaptable sound profile. Players will appreciate the smooth neck, which allows for fast, comfortable playing across all frets. The classic "C" shape neck and 21-fret fingerboard ensure ease of play, making it a joy to navigate complex bass lines or simple grooves.

The Hodad Bass also features a fully adjustable bridge, which ensures precise intonation and optimal string tension. This attention to detail in construction not only enhances playability but also ensures that your instrument remains in tune through rigorous play sessions. With a vintage-inspired design, the Danelectro Hodad Bass is as much a visual statement as it is a musical tool.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollow body for warm, resonant tones
  • Dual lipstick pickups for versatile sound
  • Classic "C" shape neck for comfortable playability
  • 21-fret fingerboard
  • Fully adjustable bridge for precise intonation
  • Vintage-inspired design

Product specs

Brand Danelectro
Model Hodad Bass
Finish Black/Gold Pearl, Deep Blue Pearl, White/Violet Pearl
Year 2000 - 2004
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Semi-Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Top-Load
Color Family Black, Blue, Purple, White
Finish Style Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Danelectro Hodad Bass have?

The Danelectro Hodad Bass features a triple single-coil pickup configuration (SSS), providing a range of tonal options suitable for various music styles.

Is the Danelectro Hodad Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Danelectro Hodad Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability, lightweight semi-hollow body, and versatile sound, making it easy for new players to explore different tones.

What is the neck construction of the Danelectro Hodad Bass?

The Danelectro Hodad Bass has a bolt-on neck construction made of maple, providing stability and a bright tonal quality.

Does the Danelectro Hodad Bass have an active preamp?

No, the Danelectro Hodad Bass does not have an active preamp; it features passive pickups, which offer a more traditional bass sound.

What is the body type of the Danelectro Hodad Bass?

The Danelectro Hodad Bass has a semi-hollow body design, which contributes to its lightweight feel and unique resonance.

David Rabinow

David Rabinow

Danelectro Hodad Out Of Phase Demo

Video thumbnail for Danelectro  Hodad Out Of Phase Demo by David Rabinow

Danelectro Hodad Out Of Phase Demo

David Rabinow

David Rabinow

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Danelectro Hodad Bass.

Features and functionality

  • The Danelectro Hodad bass delivers a distinct "loose" tone with extremely light gauge strings and a short scale, contributing to its unique sound.

    Source
  • The Hodad bass includes push/pull pots for phase and coil tapping, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities from its lipstick humbuckers.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners may need to relocate the bridge for proper intonation, with adjustments of 3/8" on the bass side and 1/4" on the treble side.

    Source

Build quality

  • Authentic style tuners on the Hodad bass are reported to be subpar, with no easy replacement options found by some owners.

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  • The masonite semi-hollow body construction is noted for providing a smooth, boomy tone that is distinct and not comparable to a 335 or Gretsch.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Hodad's lightweight design makes it ideal for players with shoulder issues, enabling longer play sessions without discomfort.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Hodad is preferred by some for its more Surf and Punk acceptable appearance over the Danelectro Longhorn bass, while retaining similar tonal qualities.

    Source
  • The Hodad's fingerboard is perceived to be wider compared to other guitars in some owners' collections, influencing playability preferences.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Danelectro Hodad Bass review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Danelectro Hodad Bass may not be the most popular design, but it offers a fun playing experience with its unique tone. Its pros include playing comfort and dynamic sounds, though the unconventional control placement may take some getting used to. The bass's semi-solid construction and short scale make it lightweight and comfortable, delivering impressive Rickenbacker-like growls and a slapper's delight. Its characterful tones and affordable pricing make it a great choice for those seeking a distinctive sound and style. Overall, it's a super bass with good quality and sound.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Fat Mike uses Danelectro Hodad Bass

Fat Mike

Singer, Bassist

NOFX

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture Fat Mike appears to be using a Danelectro Hodad 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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