This page about Kramer Axe Bass is a stub. You can help improve it:
Pricing and availability
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
For musicians who crave a bass guitar that harmonizes distinctive style with robust performance, the Kramer Axe Bass is your go-to instrument. Known for its legendary design inspired by Gene Simmons of KISS, this electric bass is more than just an eye-catcher—it's built for serious sound. The Kramer Axe Bass features a unique body shape that not only stands out on stage but also offers a comfortable playing experience. Its bolt-on maple neck provides stability and smooth playability, while the rosewood fretboard adds warmth to each note.
Equipped with dual humbucking pickups, this bass delivers a powerful yet versatile tone, allowing you to navigate smoothly between genres. The pickups are complemented by a 3-way selector switch and individual volume controls, giving you full command over your sound. Whether you're laying down a groovy funk line or driving the rhythm in a rock anthem, the Kramer Axe Bass offers the clarity and punch you need.
Key Features:
- Unique body shape inspired by iconic rock designs
- Bolt-on maple neck for durability and comfort
- Rosewood fretboard for a warm tonal quality
- Dual humbucking pickups for versatile sound
- 3-way selector switch for tonal variety
- Individual volume controls for each pickup
- 22 frets for a wide range of notes
- Chrome hardware for a sleek finish
Videos
Groovy Music Lessons
1980 Kramer Axe Bass Gene Simmons Review By Scott Grove
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kramer Axe Bass.
Features and functionality
-
The aluminum neck of the 1979 Kramer DMZ 4001B contributes to its ability to cut through mixes with a distinct high-end zing.
Source -
The first Kramer Axe bass featured a classic chrome hardware setup with 2 white DiMarzio "P-Bass" pickups, which were unusual for Gene Simmons' bass.
Source -
The bass incorporated a BADASS bridge, Grover chrome tuners, and a single volume and tone control using black Gibson speed knobs.
Source
Comparisons
-
Owners suggest that the split D'Marzio pickup on the DMZ 4001B offers a punchy sound reminiscent of a P-bass.
Source
User experience
-
Players report that despite the bass's top-heavy reputation, the 1979 model balances well, with standard 19mm string spacing preventing the G string from slipping off the fretboard.
Source -
Gene Simmons' initial patent for the Axe bass was registered on March 18, 1980, showcasing his early and rare business initiative for a young musician at the time.
Source
Build quality
-
While some basses from the era are heavy, the Kramer DMZ 4001B is noted to weigh comparably to a Fodera Emperor, defying expectations of its heft.
Source -
The Axe bass had a construction of a bolt-on maple body with an aluminum and walnut neck, paired with a 33.75” scale length and Ebonol fretboard.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Kramer Electric Basses
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
miggityfriggityGear IQ 5535
-