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Description

Unleash your musical potential with the Spector SpectorCore 5, an electric bass that masterfully combines the best of both worlds: the deep, resonant tones of an electric bass and the vibrant, acoustic-like sounds of a traditional upright. Crafted with Spector's iconic NS-2000 body shape, this bass is thoughtfully chambered to reduce weight, enhancing comfort during long sessions while adding a midrange-focused tone that enriches your soundscape.

At the heart of the SpectorCore 5 is the dynamic duo of a custom Bartolini humbucking pickup and a Fishman Powerbridge piezo system. This powerful pairing ensures you can easily shift from delivering punchy electric bass lines to producing smooth, acoustic-like melodies. With separate volume and tone controls for each pickup, you have the flexibility to blend your tones for a truly personalized audio experience.

The 3-piece, bolt-on maple neck not only provides exceptional sustain and resonance but also ensures reliable performance across a variety of musical styles. Whether you're recording in the studio or performing live, the Spector SpectorCore 5 is a versatile companion that adapts seamlessly to your musical needs.

Key Features:

  • Classic NS-2000 body shape, chambered for lighter weight and enhanced tone
  • Bartolini passive humbucking pickup for deep, full electric bass tones
  • Fishman Powerbridge piezo pickup for acoustic/upright-style tones
  • Individual volume and tone controls for custom pickup combinations
  • 3-piece, bolt-on maple neck for improved sustain and resonance

Product specs

Brand Spector
Model SpectorCore 5
Finish Aged Natural Gloss, Amber Burst, Black Gloss, Walnut Stain Gloss
Year 2010s
Made In Korea, Republic of
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Natural, Orange
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 16"
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 5-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Opaque, Quilted

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Spector SpectorCore 5 suitable for?

The Spector SpectorCore 5, with its active pickups and preamp, excels in genres requiring punchy, articulate tones like rock, metal, and jazz fusion. Its versatility also makes it suitable for funk and pop.

How does the active preamp on the Spector SpectorCore 5 enhance its sound?

The active preamp provides enhanced tonal control and output, allowing for greater clarity and punch. This feature is particularly beneficial for cutting through in a band mix and achieving a wide range of tonal options.

Is the Spector SpectorCore 5 comfortable for extended playing sessions?

Yes, the SpectorCore 5 features a double cutaway body shape and a 16" fretboard radius, which provide comfortable access to all 24 frets. The basswood body and maple neck offer a balanced weight, making it suitable for long performances.

What is the neck profile like on the Spector SpectorCore 5?

The SpectorCore 5 has a maple neck with a smooth, comfortable profile that facilitates fast playing and easy access across the fretboard, ideal for both intricate fingerstyle and aggressive pick playing.

Does the Spector SpectorCore 5 come in different finishes?

Yes, the Spector SpectorCore 5 is available in several finishes, including Aged Natural Gloss, Amber Burst, Black Gloss, and Walnut Stain Gloss, allowing players to choose a style that suits their aesthetic preferences.

GrandCentralMusic1

GrandCentralMusic1

Spector Spectorcore 5 string overview and test.

Video thumbnail for Spector Spectorcore 5 string overview and test. by GrandCentralMusic1

Spector Spectorcore 5 string overview and test.

GrandCentralMusic1

GrandCentralMusic1

Video thumbnail for Spector SpectorCore 5 FL Fretless Bass | Review by Guitar Interactive Magazine

Spector SpectorCore 5 FL Fretless Bass | Review

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Spector Spectorcore 5.

Use cases and applications

  • The Spectorcore 5 was successfully used in a metal album, providing pleasant mids and a warm tone without deep growls.

    Source
  • It works well for stoner doom metal, managing to cut through with lows effectively.

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  • The fretless version is recommended for smooth jazz and classic jazz styles like bebop, while the fretted version suits fusion and slap techniques better.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bass includes a Fishman Bass Powerbridge piezo and EMG HZ pickups, offering versatility for different musical styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At $700, the Spectorcore 5 is perceived as a special alternative to higher-priced models like the Spector Euro.

    Source
  • It's often available in the $500-$600 range, making it an affordable semi-hollow option with striking finishes.

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User experience

  • Owners find it distinct and suitable for alternative instrumentation, inspired by bands like Intronaut.

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  • Long-term fretless players often regret not trying fretless earlier due to its distinct tonal qualities and playing freedom.

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  • SpectorCore 5-string reportedly feels ergonomically challenging and sounds muffled compared to its 4-string counterpart, leading some owners to prefer the latter.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners advise budgeting for a professional setup to maximize the instrument's potential, particularly focusing on the piezo bridge for optimal performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The SpectorCore fretless stood out in a comparison with Ibanez semi-hollow fretless models, making it a top contender for new purchases.

    Source
  • SpectorCore basses are recommended as affordable alternatives to pricier models, with some owners trading between the 4-string and 5-string versions based on playability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Spector SpectorCore 5 FL Fretless Bass

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

The Spector Spectorcore 5 FL Fretless Bass impresses with its lightweight build, quality hardware, and excellent electronics. The passive setup makes it a plug-and-play dream, while the fretless marker inlays aid in precise intonation. Its modern feel is enhanced by a comfortable neck profile and acoustically chambered body, ideal for long gigs. However, the lack of an active EQ might be a downside for some. Overall, it delivers a rich, organic sound with a sweet spot when blending its pickups, although standard steel strings are a must.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mersenne

Jacob Collier made me buy this

What more is there to say? I love the dude and I wanted a 5-string to play the stuff I was trying to learn at the time. This instrument is in rotation now and I will never regret it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jacob Collier uses Spector Spectorcore 5

Jacob Collier

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Jacob can be seen using this bass in multiple music videos, including 'Saviour', 'Close To You' & 'Fascinating Rhythm'.

See how Eric Gonsalves uses Spector Spectorcore 5

Eric Gonsalves

Bassist

Protest the Hero

...
Verified via YouTube

In this cover of Bloodmeat by Protest the Hero, Eric plays his spector 5 string bass

Genre Usage

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

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