Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,725

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.

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Description

Meet the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom, an electric bass that embodies both precision craftsmanship and sonic versatility. Designed for the discerning bassist, this 5-string fretless masterpiece delivers unparalleled tonal depth and clarity, courtesy of its expertly crafted ash body and bolt-on maple neck. The ebony fingerboard offers a smooth playing surface, allowing for seamless transitions and expressive performances.

Equipped with a powerful Sandberg humbucker and a dynamic 3-band EQ, the VM5 Custom offers both active and passive modes with a passive tone control. This means you can easily dial in your desired sound, whether you're looking for punchy mids, crisp highs, or a deep, resonant low end. The chrome hardware and black pickguard not only add aesthetic appeal but also ensure durability and reliability during your gigs or studio sessions.

This German-engineered bass is built for those who demand both style and substance. From the master volume to the dedicated controls for treble, mid, and bass, every element of the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom is crafted to enhance your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • 5-string fretless design
  • Body: Ash
  • Bolt-on neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Fingerboard radius: 356 mm (14")
  • Scale: 864 mm (34")
  • Nut width: 45 mm (1.77")
  • Pickups: 1 Sandberg Power humbucker
  • Electronics: Sandberg 3-band EQ
  • Active/passive with passive tone control
  • Controls: Master Volume, Treble, Mid, Bass
  • Black pickguard
  • Chrome hardware
  • Sandberg machine heads
  • Made in Germany
  • Includes gig bag

Product specs

Lefthand Model No
Colour Purple
Number of strings 5
Body Ash
Neck Maple
Fretboard Ebony
Scale Long Scale
Pickup System H
Elektronic Aktive, Passive
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag Yes

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom?

The Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom features a comfortable maple neck with a smooth profile, making it ideal for players who prefer a fast, easy-to-navigate fretboard.

What type of music genres is the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom best suited for?

With its versatile active/passive electronics and H pickup system, the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom is well-suited for a wide range of genres, from rock and funk to jazz and pop.

Does the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom come with a case?

The Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom does not include a hard case but comes with a gigbag for convenient transportation and protection.

How does the ash body of the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom affect its sound?

The ash body of the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom contributes to a bright, resonant tone with excellent sustain, providing a balanced sound suitable for various playing styles.

Is the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom's active/passive electronics and solid construction make it a reliable choice for live performances, offering versatility and dynamic sound control on stage.

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Sandberg Basic VM5with Koa topwood

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Sandberg Basic VM Zebra Red Demo

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom.

Features and functionality

  • The P-MM pickup configuration offers unique tones: the P pickup provides clarity, while the MM humbucker resembles a Jazz bridge pickup with Stingray-like fullness.

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  • The 34" scale length is standard for the VM5, and some players note little audible difference between this and a 35" scale.

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  • The active mode delivers a punchy and clear tone reminiscent of a modern P bass, while the passive mode offers a contrasting sound palette.

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Comparisons

  • The MM style humbucker does not sound like a Stingray as expected, but rather delivers clean tones with nasally mids akin to a Jazz bridge pickup.

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  • The VM4, similar in design, is noted to combine the sound profiles of a Stingray and a Fender American or Ultra P-Bass, offering both passive and active options.

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User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Sandberg logo detail near the neck, often mistaken for pickup poles, adding a distinctive aesthetic touch.

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  • Owners highlight the thin C-shaped neck as "magic," suggesting it's a faster version of the Fender Ultra series.

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  • Owners find the neck fast yet substantial, with a deep lower cutaway to facilitate easy access to higher frets.

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  • The VM5 is noted for its light weight, especially when compared to heavier five-string models like acrylic basses, enhancing playability for extended sessions.

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Use cases and applications

  • Lightweight models are noted for comfort, particularly by older musicians with back issues, inspired by Oteil Burbridge's choice for touring.

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  • The VM5 is frequently compared to high-end basses, indicating its versatility for recording and performance.

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Build quality

  • The Sandberg VM5 features a roasted neck, praised for its excellent feel and playability.

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  • The Greenline model uses woods with unique grain features, such as darker patches, which add character but are typically considered blemishes in traditional models.

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Value and pricing

  • The VM5's price has increased since last year, reflecting market trends affecting many bass models.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Oliver Riedel uses Sandberg Basic VM5 Custom

Oliver Riedel

Bassist, Composer

Rammstein

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can see Oliver playing his Basic VM5

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