This page about Sandberg California TM4 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

The Sandberg California TM4 sets the bar high in the realm of electric bass guitars, combining precision craftsmanship with outstanding versatility. Designed in Germany, this bass guitar represents a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern engineering, making it an ideal choice for both professional musicians and dedicated hobbyists.

The California TM4 features a deluxe custom pickup configuration, allowing players to achieve a wide range of tones that suit various musical genres. From deep, punchy lows to articulate highs, this bass adapts effortlessly to your playing style. Its robust construction includes a 22-fret fingerboard, offering smooth playability and enhanced tonal clarity. This instrument also sports Sandberg's signature 6-bolt neck joint, ensuring stability and durability during intense performances.

The TM4 is equipped with a high-quality active/passive preamp system, providing musicians with the flexibility to switch tonal modes seamlessly. This feature, combined with its ergonomic body design, ensures a comfortable playing experience during long sessions. Whether you're laying down a groove in the studio or taking the stage by storm, the California TM4 delivers the performance and reliability that bassists demand.

Key Features:

  • Custom pickup configuration for versatile sound
  • 22-fret fingerboard for extended range
  • Sandberg 6-bolt neck joint for enhanced stability
  • Active/passive preamp system for tonal flexibility
  • Ergonomic body design for comfortable playability
PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Sandberg California Series TM4 Bass Guitar - Review & Demo

Video thumbnail for Sandberg California Series TM4 Bass Guitar - Review & Demo by PMTVUK

Sandberg California Series TM4 Bass Guitar - Review & Demo

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Sandberg California TM4 Bass - Great Handmade Bass Guitars by PMTVUK

Sandberg California TM4 Bass - Great Handmade Bass Guitars

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Sandberg California TM4 by J.D. Owens

Sandberg California TM4

J.D. Owens

J.D. Owens

Video thumbnail for Sandberg California TM4 by J.D. Owens

Sandberg California TM4

J.D. Owens

J.D. Owens

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sandberg California TM4.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend replacing the stock volume pot with a Mojotone CTS 500K linear push/pull pot, using a brass sleeve for compatibility with Sandberg knobs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The push/pull mechanism in the stock Sandberg California TM4 volume pot is prone to failure, affecting the active/passive switching.

    Source
  • The TM4's slanted neck pickup enhances tone by delivering a beefier sound on bass strings and a snappier tone on treble strings.

    Source
  • The unusual pickup angle on the TM4 can affect thumb placement for players who rest their thumb on the neck pickup.

    Source

Build quality

  • The original Sandberg electronics, including the volume pot, are considered to be of lower quality, prompting users to seek more reliable replacements like Bourns or CTS.

    Source
  • The Sandberg California TM4 is handmade in Germany, contributing to its high build quality and excellent playability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the comfortable and fast neck of the TM4, especially those who prefer jazz bass necks.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A Sandberg TM5 owner describes the bass as superior in comfort and sound, even compared to a Musicman Stingray.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user noted that $800 for a Sandberg bass is considered a great deal, with potential resale value matching the purchase price.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sandberg California TM Bass review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Sandberg California TM4 is praised for melding classic J-Bass tones with modern aesthetics and features. Its build quality and tonal versatility, thanks to a Delano pickup set and Glockenklang preamp, make it a standout. The bass is capable of delivering both vintage and contemporary sounds, with a robust sustain and attractive design. However, the hybrid bridge pickup doesn't fully capture the Music Man tone, which might disappoint those seeking a true StingRay sound. Overall, it's a high-quality instrument that combines traditional and modern elements effectively, making it a strong contender in its price range.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jean-Michel Labadie uses Sandberg California TM4

Jean-Michel Labadie

Bassist

Gojira

...
Verified via YouTube

Labadie can be seen performing with a gloss black Sandberg Classic TM4 at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics. It is most notably seen at the 0:43 mark.

See how Matt Kean uses Sandberg California TM4

Matt Kean

Bassist

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo (and in his profile picture) we can see Matt playing a Sandberg California TM4

See how Martin Mendez uses Sandberg California TM4

Martin Mendez

Bassist, Music Producer

Opeth

...
Verified via Gettyimages

Martin Mendez of Opeth is seen using a Sandberg California TM4 bass guitar in a Getty Images photo. This image captures him performing on stage, showcasing his preference for Sandberg basses.

See how Alex Dean uses Sandberg California TM4

Alex Dean

Bassist

The Architects

...
Verified via Photo

Alex used a Sandberg California TM4, in black finish.

See how Clément Libes uses Sandberg California TM4

Clément Libes

Bassist, Composer

M83

...
Unverified
See how Richard Boucher uses Sandberg California TM4

Richard Boucher

Bassist

Funeral for a Friend

...
Verified via Photo

In a live performance photo, Richard Boucher is clearly seen playing a Sandberg California TM4 bass guitar.

See how Christian Holden uses Sandberg California TM4

Christian Holden

Singer, Bassist

The Hotelier

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Christian can be seen playing a Sunburst Sandberg TM4.

Genre Usage

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

More Sandberg Electric Basses

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides