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Description

Dive into the world of smooth, soulful grooves with the Wal 4-String Fretless Bass. Revered by bassists for its distinctive tone and unparalleled craftsmanship, this instrument embodies both tradition and innovation. The fretless design provides a fluid playing experience, allowing you to slide effortlessly between notes and explore new sonic territories. Perfect for jazz, funk, and fusion, it offers a warm, resonant sound that stands out in any musical setting.

Crafted with precision, the Wal 4-String Fretless Bass features a passive circuit that ensures a rich, organic tone. The series/parallel switch provides versatile tonal options, making it adaptable to a variety of musical styles. Whether you're laying down a smooth bassline or taking center stage for a solo, this bass delivers a powerful voice that commands attention.

Join the ranks of legendary musicians who have trusted Wal basses to deliver their signature sound. With its elegant design and superior playability, this bass is more than just an instrument—it's an extension of your musical expression.

Key Features:

  • Fretless design for smooth, expressive playing
  • Passive circuit for authentic, organic tone
  • Series/parallel switch for versatile sound options
  • Renowned craftsmanship and construction
  • Ideal for genres like jazz, funk, and fusion
BassTheWorld.com

BassTheWorld.com

Wal MK1 Fretless Bass - Johannes Leitner

Video thumbnail for Wal MK1 Fretless Bass - Johannes Leitner by BassTheWorld.com

Wal MK1 Fretless Bass - Johannes Leitner

BassTheWorld.com

BassTheWorld.com

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Wal 4-String Fretless Bass.

Build quality

  • The Wal 4-String Fretless Bass is noted for its heavy weight, approximately 12 lbs, which necessitates a thick/wide strap for comfort during extended use.

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  • The epoxy finish on the ebony fingerboard, crafted by HG Thor, is highly praised for its quality, though there's a reported 12-year wait for his services.

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Features and functionality

  • The bass features versatile electronics with a built-in XLR output option, though this is mostly found in Pro series models and later.

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  • Some owners commission sound-alike copies from luthiers familiar with Wal's designs, often starting around £6,500 for basic models.

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  • The control cavity is notably spacious, which some owners suggest could be optimized with SMD technology for a more compact electronics board.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report that the bass accommodates low action well, contributing to its playability.

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User experience

  • The neck is described as smooth and less chunky, offering a balance between a Jazz bass and thicker neck profiles.

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  • Buyers face a multi-year waiting period, often joining a waiting list to get on the actual waiting list due to high demand.

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  • Despite its high price, one owner emphasized the instrument's supreme craftsmanship and unique control system, making it a standout choice among bass guitars.

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Comparisons

  • The tone is described as having more mid and treble content compared to typical double humbucker setups, even without additional features like the Pick Attack switch engaged.

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  • Owners note that the bolt-on neck design is a unique feature for its price range, contrasting with typical expectations for high-end instruments.

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Use cases and applications

  • Despite using flatwound strings like Thomastik, achieving an old-school tone is challenging due to the distinct electronics and tonal character.

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  • Inquiries and orders are often handled through a website form, with responses being slow due to the small team at Wal.

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  • Some owners find that after acquiring a Wal, visiting music stores becomes less exciting, suggesting a high level of satisfaction and exclusivity.

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Value and pricing

  • New Wal 4-string fretless basses start at approximately £7,850, with resale values remaining solid, often comparable to used prices.

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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How to tell which Wal model is which.

Wal made fretless basses for each of the MK models. This photo shows from left to right, MK 3, MK 2, and MK 1. There is very little difference in tonal qualities for the Wal basses. They all feature the same circuitry that gives them their signature growl. The differences actually lay in the appearances between the MK 1, 2, and 3 bodies.

The MK 1 features short, stubby horns and a flat back end. They closely resemble a Fender Precision bass that has been squished bridge to neck.

The MK 2 features a much longer top horn but is generally the same shape as a 1.

The MK 3 features the longer horn of the MK 2 but also adds in a slanted back end behind the bridge, running from the strap peg inward and upward towards the players chest.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Justin Chancellor uses Wal 4-String Fretless Bass

Justin Chancellor

Bassist

Tool

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Verified via YouTube

As recalled by his guitar tech Chris Schlyer, Justin Chancellor uses the Wal 4string fretless Bass on "Lateralus" and in "Rosetta Stoned".

See how Greg Edwards uses Wal 4-String Fretless Bass

Greg Edwards

Guitarist, Bassist

Failure

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Verified via Photo

In this photo, Greg Edwards can be seen with a Wal Fretless Bass. In a Premier Guitar interview, Edwards stated, "I bought one because Mick Karn played them in the band Japan. When I saw the crazy and unique way he played that instrument, I was completely in awe. So in a way, he’s really the first person who brought attention to them."

Guitar.com, 2015

I sold my Wal a while back and I regret it. It’s heavy – I don’t regret losing the weight, but that bass was so unique, the feeling of it and the way it makes you play. I didn’t find it especially easy to play. I liked that you had to wrestle with it, but if you did you were repaid with the tone.

See how Mick Karn uses Wal 4-String Fretless Bass

Mick Karn

Bassist

Japan

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Verified via YouTube

Mick Karn is seen playing a Wal 4-String Fretless Bass in the YouTube video "Japan live — Methods of Dance with Mick Karn," showcasing his distinctive and innovative bass style.

See how Bill Laswell uses Wal 4-String Fretless Bass

Bill Laswell

Bassist, Music Producer

Praxis

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Verified via Fretlessbass

In an interview with FretlessBass.com, Bill Laswell confirmed he used a Wal for recording his work on Public Image Ltd’s Album.

See how Paul Webb uses Wal 4-String Fretless Bass

Paul Webb

Bassist

Talk Talk

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Verified via Muzines

"I've got two. A Wal fretless and a Kramer fretless going through a Boss flanger pedal."

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 Wal 4-String Fretless Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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