Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $7,700

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your bass game with the Spector USA Custom NS-5, a masterpiece that blends tradition and innovation. Rooted in a legacy that began in 1976, this bass is a testament to Spector's enduring craftsmanship. The NS-5 showcases a stunning combination of swamp ash and walnut burl, creating not only a visually arresting instrument but also a sonic powerhouse. The 3-piece roasted maple neck, coupled with a ziricote fingerboard, ensures effortless playability across all 24 medium-jumbo frets. Its neck-through construction and classic "C"-shape profile provide a stable and comfortable playing experience, perfect for both studio sessions and live performances.

Equipped with a pair of Aguilar pickups, the NS-5 boasts a tonal versatility that few basses can rival. The DCB-M5 at the bridge offers crisp, P-style clarity, while the neck-mounted DCB-5J provides rich warmth and detailed lows. This dynamic duo is controlled via intuitive Volume, Blend, and push-pull frequency controls, allowing you to dial in the perfect tone for any musical setting. The proprietary Spector locking aluminum bridge and gold Gotoh GB7 tuning machines add to the bass's exceptional durability and tuning stability.

Finished with elegant roasted maple crown inlays and gold hardware, the Spector USA Custom NS-5 is not just an instrument; it's a statement piece for discerning bassists who demand the best in sound and style.

Key Features:

  • Swamp ash body with walnut burl top
  • 3-piece roasted maple neck with neck-through construction
  • Ziricote fingerboard with 24 medium-jumbo frets
  • Aguilar DCB-M5 and DCB-5J pickups
  • Volume, Blend, and push-pull frequency controls
  • Proprietary Spector locking aluminum bridge
  • Gold hardware and Spector-branded Gotoh GB7 tuners

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape USA NS-5
Body Material Swamp Ash (wings), Walnut Burl (top)
Body Finish Matte
Neck Material 3-piece Roasted Maple
Neck Shape C
Neck Joint Neck-through
Radius 16"
Fingerboard Material Ziricote
Fingerboard Inlay Roasted Maple Crowns
Number of Frets 24, Medium Jumbo, Nickel Silver
Scale Length 35"
Nut Width 1.81"
Nut Material Brass
Bridge/Tailpiece Spector Locking Aluminum
Tuners Spector Branded Gotoh GB7, 20:1
Neck Pickup Aguilar DCBJ5 Single-coil
Bridge Pickup Aguilar DCB M5 Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 1 x blend, 1 x bass/treble (stack), 1 x mid (push/pull freq)
Strings Spector .045-.130
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass pickups?

The Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass features Aguilar DCBJ5 and DCB M5 pickups, offering a rich, dynamic tone with a strong low end and clear mids, suitable for various music styles, including rock, jazz, and funk.

Is the Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass is designed with advanced players in mind, featuring high-quality materials, a neck-through design for enhanced sustain, and versatile electronics for a wide range of tonal options.

What is the neck profile of the Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass?

The Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass has a C-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for most players, making it suitable for fast playing and complex fingerwork.

How does the neck-through construction of the Spector USA Custom NS-5 affect its sound?

The neck-through construction of the Spector USA Custom NS-5 enhances sustain and resonance, providing a more connected feel between the neck and body, which contributes to its rich tonal qualities.

What are the standout features of the Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass's body design?

The Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass features a swamp ash body with a walnut burl top, offering both visual appeal and tonal depth, with a matte finish that enhances its natural beauty and feel.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Spector USA Custom NS-5 Bass.

Comparisons

  • The Euro 5LX is noted to have a chunkier neck compared to the Korean-made Ethos, which might be preferable for players with larger hands.

    Source
  • It's been observed that the Euro 5LX's body is thinner in profile and lighter compared to the Ethos, which might impact player comfort during extended sessions.

    Source
  • The Spector basses are compared to Music Man basses for their modern sound and active pickups, appealing to players who prefer these features.

    Source
  • The Spector NS Pulse II features a flipped P-pickup configuration, placing the D-G coil closer to the fingerboard, which may affect tonal response compared to traditional setups.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Spector NS-5 Ethos is heavier and constructed from all maple, contributing to its weight compared to the Euro 5LX.

    Source
  • The Tone Pump preamp is popular for an aggressive sound, but users recommend running treble high and bass low to prevent excessive low-end boost.

    Source
  • The Spector NS Pulse II's TonePump preamp runs hot, offering an aggressive sound but can clip if not dialed in properly, requiring careful EQ adjustments.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A Sheldon Crane SNC Haz clone preamp is recommended as a top-notch alternative to the more expensive USA Haz Lab preamp for those seeking a similar sound profile.

    Source
  • Gotoh GB350 lightweight tuners are recommended to combat neck dive on models with short horns.

    Source
  • Some users prefer swapping in Aguilar or DarkGlass preamps for varied tonal options, enhancing the bass's versatility across different musical styles.

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User experience

  • The Euro 5LX with Bartolini pickups is described as having a mellow tone compared to the more aggressive EMG pickups, but still retains the distinctive Spector growl.

    Source
  • The Euro LX model offers a distinctive tone that cuts through mixes well and maintains player comfort, despite ergonomic criticisms.

    Source
  • Owners report that Spector basses, including the NS Pulse II, feel durable and robust, often described as tank-like in build quality.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report significant neck dive and horizontal hang, challenging first-fret reach on 5-string models, especially for players with shorter arms.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Spectors are praised for their ability to cut through heavy guitar mixes, especially in metal genres, due to a notable upper mid bump and 300Hz scoop.

    Source

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Genre Usage

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Gear IQ 148

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Gear IQ 148

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Gear IQ 148

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