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Average Price: $7,358

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Music Man Cutlass Bass I is a distinguished addition to the world of electric bass guitars, blending classic design with modern performance. This bass guitar offers an impressive blend of tonal versatility and player-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned professionals and aspiring bassists. Its custom-wound humbucking pickups deliver a powerful, punchy sound that cuts through any mix, while the active preamp provides precise tonal control, allowing you to shape your sound with ease.

Crafted for comfort and playability, the Cutlass Bass I features a smooth maple neck and a rosewood fretboard that feels natural in your hands. The contoured body design ensures that long playing sessions remain comfortable, while the sturdy hardware offers reliable tuning stability. Whether you're laying down a solid foundation in a live performance or exploring intricate bass lines in the studio, the Cutlass Bass I delivers consistent performance and sound quality.

Key Features:

  • Custom-wound humbucking pickups for powerful sound
  • Active preamp for versatile tone shaping
  • Maple neck with rosewood fretboard for smooth playability
  • Contoured body design for enhanced comfort
  • Sturdy hardware for reliable tuning stability
  • Suitable for both live and studio applications

Product specs

Brand Music Man
Model Cutlass Bass I
Year 1983 - 1984
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, Natural, Red, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Music Man Cutlass Bass I have?

The Music Man Cutlass Bass I is equipped with active pickups, providing a powerful and clear tone suitable for a wide range of music styles.

Is the Music Man Cutlass Bass I suitable for funk and slap bass techniques?

Yes, the active pickups and ebony fretboard of the Music Man Cutlass Bass I offer a bright, articulate sound that is ideal for funk and slap bass playing.

What is the scale length of the Music Man Cutlass Bass I?

The Music Man Cutlass Bass I features a 34-inch scale length, which is standard for most electric basses and provides a balanced feel and tone.

How many frets are on the Music Man Cutlass Bass I?

The Music Man Cutlass Bass I has 21 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and versatility in playing.

What is the body shape of the Music Man Cutlass Bass I?

The Music Man Cutlass Bass I has a double cutaway body shape, which provides easy access to the higher frets and a comfortable playing experience.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass: Joe Dart Demos

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass: Joe Dart Demos by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass: Joe Dart Demos

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for The Ultimate Sleeper Bass? Ernie Ball Cutlass! by Riffs, Beards & Gear

The Ultimate Sleeper Bass? Ernie Ball Cutlass!

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass Demo by Ricardo Strani

Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass Demo

Ricardo Strani

Ricardo Strani

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass - Unboxing and First Impressions! GRAVY- LowEndLobster Fresh Look by LowEndLobster

Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass Bass - Unboxing and First Impressions! GRAVY- LowEndLobster Fresh Look

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Music Man Cutlass Bass I.

Value and pricing

  • A pre-Ernie Ball Music Man Cutlass I, especially in decent condition, is highly sought after with current listings reaching up to $8k, though sold listings suggest $4k-$5k.

    Source

Build quality

  • Only 600 Music Man Cutlass I basses were produced, contributing to their rarity and desirability among collectors.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The necks for the Music Man Cutlass I were made by Modulus, known for their unique graphite construction, adding to the bass's distinct appeal.

    Source

Other

  • There's a dedicated Facebook group for pre-Ernie Ball Stingray enthusiasts, where collectors of Cutlass basses share valuable insights and information.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A cracked nut in the A string slot can be temporarily managed without affecting the graphite neck, but a professional repair is recommended to prevent worsening.

    Source
  • Owners suggest that nuts are consumable parts and replacing them is a straightforward task for any skilled luthier or DIYer.

    Source
  • It's advised to play the bass until the nut breaks, as it doesn't harm the instrument and can be easily replaced.

    Source

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