Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Average Price: $1,885
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Sandberg California VM5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.
* 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
Meet the Sandberg California VM5, a versatile 5-string electric bass guitar that seamlessly combines classic craftsmanship with modern performance. Built with the discerning musician in mind, this bass offers a balanced tonal palette that caters to a variety of musical styles, from jazz to rock. The body, crafted from premium ash, ensures a resonant and robust sound, while the bolt-on maple neck provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
The fingerboard, made from Pau Ferro, is equipped with 22 frets and a comfortable 14" radius, making intricate fingerwork a breeze. Precision and power come together with the Sandberg Split Coil pickup at the neck and the Sandberg Power humbucker at the bridge, which can be fine-tuned via a 2-band EQ for active or passive play. This allows you to sculpt your sound with precision, whether you're laying down a groove in the studio or commanding the stage.
With a nut width of 45 mm and a 34" scale, the California VM5 offers a familiar and comfortable feel to seasoned bassists, while its sleek chrome hardware and German engineering stand as a testament to its quality. This meticulously crafted instrument doesn’t just sound good—it looks stunning, with its elegant design and attention to detail. A gig bag is included, ensuring that your prized instrument is well-protected on the go.
Key Features:
- Body: Ash
- Bolt-on neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- 22 Frets
- Nut width: 45 mm (1.77")
- Scale: 864 mm (34")
- Fingerboard radius: 356 mm (14")
- Pickups: 1 Sandberg Split Coil (neck) and 1 Sandberg Power humbucker (bridge)
- Electronics: 2-band EQ active/passive
- Chrome hardware
- Made in Germany
- Includes gig bag
Product specs
| Available since | May 2024 |
| Colour | Gold |
| Body | Alder |
| Neck | Maple |
| Fretboard | Pao Ferro |
| Frets | 22 |
| Scale | Longscale |
| Pickup System | HP |
| Elektronic | Active, Passive |
| Incl. Case | No |
| Incl. Gigbag | Yes |
FAQs
-
What type of wood is used for the body of the Sandberg California VM5?
-
The Sandberg California VM5 features an alder body, which is known for its balanced tone and resonance, making it a versatile choice for various music styles.
-
Does the Sandberg California VM5 come with a case or gigbag?
-
The Sandberg California VM5 does not include a hard case, but it does come with a gigbag for convenient transport and protection.
-
Is the Sandberg California VM5 suitable for both active and passive playing styles?
-
Yes, the Sandberg California VM5 is equipped with an active/passive electronic system, allowing players to switch between active and passive modes for a variety of tonal options.
-
What is the neck material on the Sandberg California VM5?
-
The neck of the Sandberg California VM5 is made from maple, contributing to its bright tone and stability.
-
How many frets does the Sandberg California VM5 have?
-
The Sandberg California VM5 features 22 frets, providing a wide range of notes for versatile playing.
-
What is the scale length of the Sandberg California VM5?
-
The Sandberg California VM5 has a longscale design, offering a scale length that is typical for modern bass guitars, enhancing its playability and sustain.
Videos
Bass Buddha
Sandberg VM5 Creme High Gloss Bass Demo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sandberg California VM5.
Features and functionality
-
The Sandberg California II VM5 offers a versatile sound palette with its Precision and Stingray pickup combination, excellent for both passive and active modes.
Source -
The Sandberg California VM5 Nighthawk features special Black Label pickups, providing a distinctive look and sound.
Source -
The neck is not chunky, allowing for fast playability while the deep lower cutaway provides easy access to high registers.
Source -
The Greenline series involves an eco-friendly initiative where a tree is planted for each model sold, enhancing its appeal for environmentally conscious buyers.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Known for its punchy and clear tone, the VM5 is effective for both studio use with direct interface connections and live performances, adaptable to PA systems.
Source -
Despite being primarily for home practice, the VM5 is being considered for future band rehearsals, indicating its versatility.
Source
Comparisons
-
When used in passive mode with the neck pickup, the VM5 delivers a sound reminiscent of a classic P bass, satisfying those looking for that specific tone.
Source
Value and pricing
-
In Norway, a used Sandberg California II VM5 was acquired for approximately $1200, highlighting regional price variations compared to the US.
Source -
A user reported acquiring a Markbass CMB121 Blackline combo amp for the price of a CMB101 due to store clearance, suggesting potential for good deals on complementary gear.
Source
User experience
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre 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 VM5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Sandberg Electric Basses
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
l_i_v_vGear IQ 3499
-