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Average Price: $1,760

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass is an electrifying fusion of style and functionality, designed in collaboration with Hama Okamoto, the renowned bassist of the Japanese band, OKAMOTO'S. Crafted to deliver a sound that's both distinctive and dynamic, this bass features a custom PJ pickup configuration that offers a versatile tonal range, perfect for various playing styles and genres. The sleek maple neck provides smooth playability and rapid action, ensuring that every note feels just right, whether you're grooving in the studio or commanding the stage.

The Katana Bass is not just about sound; it's a visual statement too. Its unique body shape is inspired by traditional Japanese design, embodying a blend of cultural heritage and modern artistry. The bass is equipped with a 9.5" radius fingerboard, ensuring comfort across all frets, while the vintage-style bridge offers stability and sustain. For musicians who appreciate attention to detail and craftsmanship, the Katana Bass stands as a testament to Fender's dedication to quality and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Custom PJ pickup configuration for versatile tonal range
  • Unique body shape inspired by Japanese design
  • Maple neck with 9.5" radius fingerboard for enhanced playability
  • Vintage-style bridge for improved stability and sustain
  • Designed in collaboration with Hama Okamoto of OKAMOTO'S

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Hama Okamoto Signature Katana Bass
Finish Black, Olympic White, Shell Pink
Year 2021
Made In Japan
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Artist Hama Okamoto
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape V-Style
Color Family Black, Pink, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Fender Katana Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Artist Series
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass?

The Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass features a slim, comfortable neck profile, making it easy to play and suitable for fast finger movements, which is ideal for both beginners and experienced bassists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the split-coil pickups on the Katana Bass?

The split-coil pickups on the Katana Bass deliver a punchy, versatile tone that's well-suited for rock, pop, and funk genres, offering a balanced sound with clear lows and defined mids.

Is the Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Katana Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and balanced tone, making it easy to handle and versatile for various music styles.

What body material is used in the Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass, and how does it affect the sound?

The Katana Bass is made from basswood, which provides a warm, balanced tone with a strong midrange presence, making it ideal for a wide range of musical styles.

How does the V-style body shape of the Katana Bass affect playability?

The V-style body shape of the Katana Bass offers a unique aesthetic and balanced weight distribution, providing comfort during long playing sessions while standing or sitting.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Fender Katana is Back! | 2021 Fender Japan Hama Okamoto Katana Bass - Shell Pink + White Review

Video thumbnail for The Fender Katana is Back! | 2021 Fender Japan Hama Okamoto Katana Bass - Shell Pink + White Review by The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Fender Katana is Back! | 2021 Fender Japan Hama Okamoto Katana Bass - Shell Pink + White Review

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Hama Okamoto Fender® Katana Bass by Fender Music Japan

Hama Okamoto Fender® Katana Bass

Fender Music Japan

Fender Music Japan

Video thumbnail for Fender Made in Japan | HAMA OKAMOTO FENDER KATANA BASS by 三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

Fender Made in Japan | HAMA OKAMOTO FENDER KATANA BASS

三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

Video thumbnail for Fender Japan Okamoto Signature Katana Bass; Preshipment Test / Bass Review and Demo. by Bass Japan Direct

Fender Japan Okamoto Signature Katana Bass; Preshipment Test / Bass Review and Demo.

Bass Japan Direct

Bass Japan Direct

Video thumbnail for ทดสอบเสียง เบสไฟฟ้า Fender Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass | เบ๊ เงียบ เส็ง by Beh Ngiep Seng

ทดสอบเสียง เบสไฟฟ้า Fender Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass | เบ๊ เงียบ เส็ง

Beh Ngiep Seng

Beh Ngiep Seng

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass.

Features and functionality

  • The Fender Katana Hama Okamoto signature boasts a medium scale with a 7.25-inch radius neck and 63 pure vintage pickups, offering a unique playability and sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A user nearly chose this model over a MIJ P Bass with a reverse headstock, indicating its competitive appeal among high-quality bass options.

    Source
  • The Fender Hama Okamoto Katana is likened to the Jackson RR24 concept series in aesthetic, suggesting a shared visual appeal with the Jackson Rhoads model.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The design of the Fender Katana Hama Okamoto is in demand for its aesthetic, with calls for a Squier Paranormal version, indicating its appeal for both collectors and players.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners express a strong desire for the Katana's return, suggesting it holds a special place for enthusiasts seeking unique visual and tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • A previous Squier Katana user cited significant neck dive and thin sound, contrasting with the fuller sound of a P-bass.

    Source
  • Despite its appealing design, the V shape of similar models like the Rhoads can be unplayable while seated, requiring locking between the legs for stability.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One commenter noted the high price for a single humbucker setup, suggesting potential value concerns compared to established models like the P-bass.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender Japan resurrects the Squier Katana for Hama Okamoto’s super-jagged signature bass | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Fender Japan's Hama Okamoto Katana Bass resurrects a classic with modern flair, featuring a sleek design and a Pure Vintage ‘63 Precision Bass pickup that delivers a rich tone. The 32” scale length and comfortable neck make it accessible for players of all levels. However, its unique aesthetics may not appeal to everyone, and some may find the build quality inconsistent compared to other models in the price range. Overall, while it has standout features and nostalgic charm, prospective buyers should weigh its distinctive look against their personal preferences.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Hama Okamoto uses Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass

Hama Okamoto

Bassist

OKAMOTO’S

...
Verified via FenderNews - 「いつも、音楽のそばに」をテーマに、すべてのプレイヤーをサポートするフェンダー発のオンライン情報メディア

Hama Okamoto uses the Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass, which was specifically designed as his signature model according to an interview with him on FenderNews by Matsubara Kentaro.

Genre Usage

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

1 alternative for Fender Hama Okamoto Katana Bass, curated by the Equipboard community.

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