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Description
The Sandberg California VM4 is a versatile electric bass that caters to both the traditional and modern bassist. Handcrafted in Germany, this instrument combines classic design with state-of-the-art technology to deliver a dynamic and rich sound. The VM4 is equipped with a split-coil and humbucker pickup configuration, offering a wide tonal range that suits genres from jazz to rock. The neck is crafted from Canadian hard rock maple, providing smooth playability and durability.
Featuring a 22-fret fingerboard, the California VM4 ensures precision and comfort, whether you're navigating complex solos or laying down a solid groove. The advanced electronics include an active/passive switch, giving you flexibility on stage or in the studio. Its high-quality hardware ensures stability and reliability, making it an ideal companion for both live performances and recording sessions.
The Sandberg California VM4 is not just about sound; it's also designed for ease of use. The ergonomic body shape and well-balanced weight distribution make it comfortable for long gigs. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring bassist, this instrument is engineered to meet your needs with style and functionality.
Key Features:
- Split-coil and humbucker pickup configuration
- Canadian hard rock maple neck
- 22-fret fingerboard for enhanced playability
- Active/passive electronics switch
- High-quality hardware for stability and reliability
- Ergonomic body design for comfort during extended play
Videos
IvanBassist
Sandberg California VM 4 - [DEMO]
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sandberg California VM4.
Comparisons
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The Sandberg VM5's bridge humbucker is closer to the bridge than a typical Music Man, offering a different tonal character.
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Sandberg basses tend to deliver a modern, bright, and zingy sound, contrasting with vintage tones, even when fitted with LaBella flatwound strings.
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Sandberg basses are described as superior in feel and playability when compared to Squier Affinity PJ models, offering a significant upgrade.
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Features and functionality
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The Sandberg VM5 has a chunkier P-style neck, while the TM5 features a slimmer Jazz-style neck, catering to different player preferences.
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The Glockenklang preamp is praised for its versatility, but some owners prefer using the push/pull knob as a killswitch, favoring the passive mode's tone.
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Use cases and applications
Mods and upgrades
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Installing an EMG BTS preamp and two 40DC pickups can significantly improve the tone of a Spector NS Pulse II 5, as reported by owners.
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Some players suggest replacing stock pickups with GZR P pickups to better capture a classic P-bass tone, addressing complaints of a modern, thin sound.
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Value and pricing
Build quality
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The "soft aging" option involves minor bumps and nicks, providing an aesthetic appeal without significant cost increase compared to hardcore aging.
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The angled neck pickup on some Sandberg models enhances definition on lower strings and adds warmth to higher strings, mimicking a P-bass configuration.
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User experience
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings
92
My favourite bass
weighted well, sounds great, versatile and the violet burst is perfect. Its my main bass
Preferred Settings + Usage:
For synth sounds typically the neck pickup in passive mode, passive humbucker for the funk, middle position for neutral sound for singer songwriters
26900
Glad to hear it! Julia Hofer on Thomann's Youtube channel seems to revert back to her Sandberg P-style whenever she can, and that one usually sounds the best, to my ears, out of all the basses she features. I'd love to try a California one of these days.
Incredible bass
Custom ordered mine and it couldn't have come out better! Everything feels great...
Artist usage
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In an Instagram story dated May 29th, Jean-Michel Labadie was observed playing a Sandberg California VM4 bass guitar. Although he has not yet performed with it live, this use is documented alongside the Darkray Submission, which he has similarly used backstage but not in a live setting.
Sandberg: California VM hardcore aged master piece
It can also be seen on many pictures and videos, including this one: https://youtu.be/gpeaGUFhEKs.
Markus Grosskopf primarily uses the Sandberg California VM4 bass guitar, as seen in the Helloween live performance at Wacken Open Air 2011, available on YouTube via ThisIsRanma.
In this photo, Charlie can be seen playing a Sandberg VM4 with a mirror pickguard.
Endorsed by Sandberg: http://www.sandberg-guitars.de/artists/canada/637-john-calabrese
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Sandberg California VM4, it is most commonly used with the following gear.