Pricing and availability
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Description
The Wal Mk III Bass is a distinct choice for musicians seeking unparalleled craftsmanship and tonal flexibility. Renowned for its customizable electronics, this electric bass guitar offers a wide range of tonal options, making it a versatile tool for any musical style. The Mk III is meticulously handcrafted in the UK, ensuring that every detail meets the highest standards of quality.
Featuring a multi-layered body construction, the Wal Mk III Bass delivers a rich, resonant sound that stands out. The neck is crafted from high-quality woods, providing a comfortable and smooth playing experience. Its ergonomic design allows for ease of playability across all fret positions, making it a favorite among professional bassists.
The standout feature of the Mk III is its proprietary electronics system, which includes a pair of custom humbuckers. These pickups are complemented by an active preamp, allowing for precise control over your sound. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Mk III ensures that your bass lines are heard with clarity and depth.
Key Features:
- Handcrafted in the UK for exceptional build quality
- Multi-layered body construction for rich resonance
- Proprietary electronics system with custom humbuckers
- Active preamp for enhanced tonal control
- Comfortable neck design for smooth playability across all frets
Videos
The Bass Hang
2011 Wal Mark 3 Bass
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Wal Mk III Bass.
Features and functionality
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Wal basses are known for their unique active filters, with each pickup having its own low-pass filter before the blend and master volume controls.
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Mods and upgrades
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For those seeking a Wal-like tone, the Lusithand Double NFP or Underhill Full English preamps can be used, with 4 knobs instead of the typical 5, allowing for additional mod options like a series/parallel switch.
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User experience
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Owners report that recent Wal builds, from 2009 onwards, are particularly worth the investment due to their exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality.
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The waiting list for a new Wal bass can take up to 6 years, including time to get on the official list.
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Wal basses are crafted by a small, busy team, potentially leading to slow email response times.
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Owners report that Wal basses maintain or increase in value over time, with some instruments worth significantly more than their original purchase price.
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Owners emphasize the ability of Wal basses to replicate other bass sounds, but note that other basses can't mimic the unique Wal tone.
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Value and pricing
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The Wal basses hold their value well, with used models often retaining their purchase price, making them a potential long-term investment.
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New Wal Mk1 4-string basses start at £7,850, and a custom 5-string Mk3 will cost more.
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A £500 deposit is required to place an order, with payments made at different stages before completion.
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Custom options, like different woods or finishes, can increase the starting price of a Wal bass, initially estimated at £6,500 for a basic model.
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Build quality
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Despite the high cost, the meticulous hand-crafted quality and unique electronics set Wal basses apart, providing a distinct sound and outstanding craftsmanship.
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Wal basses are entirely handcrafted, with only the tuners sourced externally from Schaller; all other components are bespoke and unique to Wal.
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Comparisons
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 4 Ratings
963
Fantastic!
I recorded on this bass most of the material of my band,on all recordings it stands out for its magical sound and well Syl'shitsya in the mix compared to my Fender Jazz Bass Because when I play Jazz Bass is not clear what kind of bass is playing and when on Wal immediately clear what it is. Sound 10/10 clearly there is nothing to say it sounds perfect Convenience 10/10 very convenient for me bass when you play for a long time at a concert is very convenient. Material build quality 10/10 Assembled perfectly. Overall rating 10/10 I love this bass.
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How to tell which Wal model is which.
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. The photo for this entry is accurate as being an MK 3 Wal.
Artist usage
Add artistAlbum Usage
The Wal Mk III Bass has been featured on the following albums:
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 Mk III Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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