Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$649.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$699.99
Amazon
4.7 (4)
$649.99
Reverb
3.0 (2)
$601.09 New
$529.99 Used

Average Price: $626

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass is the ultimate weapon for bassists ready to unleash a thunderous sound. Crafted in collaboration with Megadeth's legendary bassist, this instrument is designed to deliver the aggressive tones and robust durability needed for high-octane performances. The EMG 35HZ humbuckers are at the heart of its sound, offering a pronounced punch with laser-focused mids and a rapid low-frequency response that will shake any stage. The active 3-band EQ provides endless possibilities for tone sculpting, allowing you to dial in the perfect sound for any musical context.

Built to withstand the rigors of the road, the Kelly Bird features a graphite-reinforced quartersawn maple neck that offers unparalleled stability and strength. The compound-radius fingerboard ensures effortless playability whether you're holding down a groove or firing off a blistering solo. With a Jackson HiMass bridge for quick attack and sustain, and die-cast tuning machines for reliable tuning stability, this bass is engineered for precision and performance. Its basswood body delivers a growling tone with pronounced mids, perfect for cutting through a dense mix.

Whether you're a fan of thrash metal or just in need of a reliable, versatile bass, the Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass is a formidable choice that embodies the power and finesse of a true musical titan.

Key Features:

  • Signature electric bass of Megadeth’s David Ellefson
  • Basswood body for growling tone with solid mids
  • EMG 35HZ humbuckers for pronounced punch and focused mids
  • Active 3-band EQ for tone-sculpting
  • Graphite-reinforced quartersawn maple neck
  • Compound-radius fingerboard with 21 jumbo frets
  • Jackson HiMass bridge for quick attack and sustain
  • Jackson die-cast tuning machines for reliable tuning stability

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape David Ellefson X-Series Kelly Bird IV
Body Material Basswood
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material Quartersawn Maple
Radius 12"-16" compound
Fingerboard Inlay Black Blocks
Number of Frets 21, Jumbo
Scale Length 34"
Nut Width 1.625"
Nut Material Black Plastic
Bridge/Tailpiece Jackson HiMass
Tuners Jackson Sealed Die-cast
Neck Pickup EMG HZ35N Humbucker
Bridge Pickup EMG HZ35B Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 3-band Active EQ
Strings NPS, .045-.105
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What type of music is the Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass best suited for?

This bass is ideal for rock and metal genres, thanks to its powerful EMG humbuckers and active 3-band EQ, which provide punchy and aggressive tones.

How does the compound radius neck of the Jackson Kelly Bird Bass affect playability?

The 12"-16" compound radius neck allows for comfortable chord playing near the nut and fast, smooth soloing up the neck, making it versatile for various playing styles.

What is the benefit of the Jackson HiMass bridge on this bass guitar?

The Jackson HiMass bridge enhances sustain and stability, ensuring consistent performance and tuning reliability during intense playing sessions.

Are the EMG HZ35 pickups on the Jackson Kelly Bird Bass passive or active?

The EMG HZ35 pickups on this bass are passive humbuckers, but they are paired with an active 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping.

Is the Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass suitable for beginners?

While it offers advanced features ideal for experienced players, its comfortable neck and versatile tone controls also make it accessible for dedicated beginners looking to invest in a quality instrument.

Joe Hart

Joe Hart

Jackson David Ellefson Kelly Bird Bass Guitar Review

Video thumbnail for Jackson David Ellefson Kelly Bird Bass Guitar Review by Joe Hart

Jackson David Ellefson Kelly Bird Bass Guitar Review

Joe Hart

Joe Hart

Reviews

PROS

  • Fantastic sound quality with distinguishable tones and signature Jackson "growl"

  • Comes with Dunlop straplocks installed, saving installation effort

  • High-mass bridge with stable saddles for better performance

  • Excellent, stable neck design with a narrow, flat "speed" neck

  • Active EMGs provide amazing sustain and versatile tone options

  • Handles alternate tunings with ease, suitable for various playing styles

  • Bright and punchy sound, praised by multiple users

  • Good quality hardware designed for gigging reliability

CONS

  • Severe neck dive issue reported by multiple users

  • Lacks body contour and tummy cut, affecting comfort

  • Difficult to find a suitable hardshell case

  • Visible finish issues, particularly tape lines

  • Sharp fret tangs, can be uncomfortable to play

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass.

Features and functionality

  • The bass features EMG 35hz pickups, known for their active preamp and versatile sound across various amp types.

    Source
  • The bass has active EQ with passive pickups, offering a wide tonal range suitable for various playing styles.

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  • The bass can function without a battery if the preamp is bypassed, indicating a possible conversion to passive mode.

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  • Factory settings include 3 EQ knobs that should alter sound; lack of effect suggests wiring issues.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Neck dive is a noted issue; using a leather strap can mitigate the problem somewhat.

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  • Owners experiencing preamp issues should check for cut wires and confirm connections match factory wiring to restore active functionality.

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Comparisons

  • Owners compare the Kelly Bird to the Epiphone Thunderbird for its design and sound, with some preferring the Kelly Bird for its unique aesthetics.

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  • Some users prefer mahogany basses, like the Yamaha TRBX 305 with its superior pickups, over Jackson's poplar-bodied models.

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Value and pricing

  • A used Jackson Kelly Bird bass can be found in Europe for as low as €200-300, offering exceptional quality for the price.

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  • Owners of the 5-string Kelly Bird model praise its performance, feeling it exceeds expectations for its price range.

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User experience

  • Owners appreciate the bass for its rock and metal suitability, often favoring it over more traditional models like the Epiphone EB-0.

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  • Owners find the neck fast and conducive to playing intricate riffs, especially when alternating between picking and palm muting.

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  • Some buyers find unexpected modifications in used models, impacting the active preamp's functionality.

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Other

  • Finding a suitable gig bag is challenging due to the bass's Thunderbird/Explorer shape, with suggestions to consider bags for similar models.

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Build quality

  • The fretboard is made of laurel, which some users mistake for rosewood due to its appearance.

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Use cases and applications

  • The bass is noted for its aesthetic appeal under stage lights, with white being a standout color.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
christi_garofil

Great sound.

I have the better version which is the Jackson JS3 Kelly Bird IV.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how David Ellefson uses Jackson David Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass

David Ellefson

Singer, Bassist

Megadeth

...
Verified via YouTube

Megadeth's David Ellefson talks about his signature Jackson Kelly Bird V Bass in this video.

"You should have one. I got one. Let's go make some music."

Genre Usage

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

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