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Average Price: $500

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The G&L Kiloton bass guitar, a creation that echoes the legacy of Leo Fender, is a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition. This electric bass from the Tribute Series boasts a design that's both compact and comfortable, embodying the thoughtful craftsmanship synonymous with G&L. At the heart of this instrument is the G&L Magnetic Field Design (MFD) humbucker, a powerhouse pickup positioned in the sweet spot to ensure unparalleled tonal versatility. This humbucker operates without a preamp, allowing you to harness its full potential through a simple yet effective control layout.

The Kiloton’s tone is sculpted via a 3-position toggle switch, offering series, split, and parallel options that effortlessly reveal the characteristic textures and dynamics of the MFD humbucker. The inclusion of a Leo Fender-designed Saddle-Lock bridge ensures optimal energy transfer from the strings to the body, enhancing resonance and sustain. Whether you're laying down a deep groove or exploring intricate melodies, the Kiloton responds with precision and clarity.

A testament to G&L's dedication to quality and performance, the Kiloton is more than just an instrument—it's a tribute to innovation. Its sleek contours and ergonomic design make it a joy to play, whether on stage or in the studio.

Key Features:

  • G&L Magnetic Field Design (MFD) humbucker for versatile tone
  • 3-position series/split/parallel toggle switch
  • Saddle-Lock bridge for enhanced resonance and sustain
  • Compact and ergonomic body design
  • Simple volume and tone controls for effective sound shaping

Product specs

Brand G&L
Model Tribute Series Kiloton with Maple Fretboard
Finish Irish Ale
Year 2010s
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the G&L Kiloton (Irish Ale) bass?

The G&L Kiloton features a bolt-on rock maple neck with a comfortable profile that suits a wide range of playing styles, making it ideal for both smooth and fast playing.

What kind of tone can I expect from the G&L Kiloton's pickups?

The Kiloton's single Magnetic Field Design pickup delivers a powerful and punchy tone, perfect for genres ranging from rock to funk, with a focus on clarity and dynamic response.

Is the G&L Kiloton (Irish Ale) bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the G&L Kiloton is suitable for beginners due to its easy playability, versatile tone, and high-quality construction, offering a great foundation for learning and performing.

How does the G&L Saddle-Lock bridge affect the bass's performance?

The G&L Saddle-Lock bridge enhances sustain and stability by locking the saddles together, providing a more solid connection between the strings and the body for improved tone.

Does the G&L Kiloton bass have active or passive pickups?

The G&L Kiloton bass features active pickups, which offer a more powerful output and greater tonal flexibility compared to passive pickups.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional tone variety with bright, muddy, and mellow options

  • Perfectly set up out of the box for immediate playability

  • Ergonomically designed for comfortable play without neck rise

  • Superior craftsmanship with high-quality swamp ash body

  • Loud passive pickup with versatile 3-position toggle

  • Beautiful "Red Ale" finish adds to aesthetic appeal

  • High quality at an impressive price point

  • Reliable as a primary go-to bass for many users

CONS

  • Minor filing required on the upper register fretboard

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about G&L Kiloton bass.

Features and functionality

  • The Irish Ale model features a transparent red finish with a tortoise pickguard, offering a distinctive aesthetic appeal.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners praise the smooth, unfinished neck for facilitating quick movement along the fretboard, enhancing playability.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the matte finish, finding it both visually appealing and comfortable during use.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Described as an aggressive P bass sound, the Kiloton offers a unique tone distinct from both Stingray and traditional P bass models.

    Source

Build quality

  • A user received a "used-mint" condition model with the pickguard plastic still intact, indicating high initial build quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • One owner plans to install a custom mint green pearl pickguard for a personalized look.

    Source

Critic Reviews

G&L Kiloton Packs a Mighty Wallop - Bass Musician Magazine, The Face of Bass

bassmusicianmagazine.com

The G&L Kiloton bass is a delightful blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality, featuring a powerful MFD Humbucker pickup that delivers a range of tones without losing warmth. Its comfortable design balances well, making it a joy to play. However, the passive vol/tone setup may feel limiting for some players. Overall, the Kiloton shines with its versatility and robust sound, making it a worthy addition to any bassist's arsenal.

positive

G&L Kiloton Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The G&L Kiloton bass delivers impressive playability with its comfortable design and high-output MFD pickups, making it a versatile option for various styles. The build quality is commendable, featuring a smooth satin-finished neck and innovative Saddle-Lock bridge that enhances sustain. However, the price point feels slightly steep for some, and the tonal range may not satisfy traditional P or Music Man bass fans. Overall, the Kiloton stands out as a compelling instrument, merging classic and modern elements, although its tonal characteristics may not appeal to everyone.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Greg Norton uses G&L Kiloton bass

Greg Norton

Bassist, Composer

Hüsker Dü

...
Verified via Photo

Greg Norton has been using the G&L Kiloton (Irish Ale) bass as his main instrument in recent years, as evidenced by a photograph.

Genre Usage

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

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