Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $449
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$400
$1001+
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Description
In the realm of electric bass guitars, the Westone "The Rail" Bass stands out as a testament to innovative design and timeless appeal. Born from the creative surge of the 1980s, this distinctive instrument mixes nostalgia with modern versatility. Crafted initially in Japan and later in England, this bass embodies a unique blend of craftsmanship and forward-thinking design.
One of its most striking features is the slide-adjustable pickup mounted on dual rails, offering players the unparalleled ability to customize their tone by adjusting the pickup's position. This feature empowers musicians to explore a wide variety of sonic landscapes, from deep, resonant lows to crisp, articulate highs. The headstock-less design not only contributes to its sleek appearance but also enhances the playability and balance, making it a favorite among bassists who prioritize comfort and style.
With its lightweight yet robust construction, the Westone "The Rail" Bass is perfect for both seasoned professionals and aspiring musicians seeking a reliable and dynamic instrument. Whether you're laying down grooves in the studio or rocking out on stage, this bass promises to deliver performance and character that will leave a lasting impression.
Key Features:
- Slide-adjustable pickup for customizable tone
- Headstock-less design for enhanced balance and playability
- Crafted in Japan and England, blending quality craftsmanship with innovative design
- Lightweight construction for comfortable playing sessions
Product specs
| Brand | Westone |
| Model | Rail Bass |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1980s |
| Categories | 4-String Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Black |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Number of Frets | 24 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What is unique about the pickup configuration of the Westone "The Rail" Bass?
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The Westone "The Rail" Bass features a single humbucker pickup, providing a powerful and punchy tone suitable for a range of musical styles.
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Is the Westone "The Rail" Bass suitable for slap bass techniques?
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Yes, the Westone "The Rail" Bass is suitable for slap bass techniques, thanks to its double cutaway body shape that offers easy access to the higher frets and its 24-fret rosewood fretboard.
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How does the lack of an active preamp affect the sound of the Westone "The Rail" Bass?
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The absence of an active preamp means the Westone "The Rail" Bass relies on passive electronics, offering a more natural and vintage tone with less coloration, which appeals to players seeking a classic bass sound.
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What type of music genres is the Westone "The Rail" Bass best suited for?
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The Westone "The Rail" Bass, with its versatile humbucker pickup and passive electronics, is well-suited for rock, funk, and jazz, providing a rich and full-bodied sound.
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How does the fretboard material of the Westone "The Rail" Bass affect playability?
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The rosewood fretboard of the Westone "The Rail" Bass offers a smooth and comfortable playing surface, enhancing playability and providing a warm tonal character.
Videos
KIT CAR BUILDER
The Westone Rail bass guitar
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Westone "The Rail" Bass.
Features and functionality
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The sliding pickup design allows for tone changes by adjusting the pickup position from P to J to mudbucker, though it's clunky to adjust.
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Build quality
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The tubes are hollow and were designed to resonate at a specific density, contributing to the bass's unique sound and sustain.
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User experience
Value and pricing
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Actual sales indicate that prices can be less than half of the $1200 seen on platforms like Reverb, with some owners not willing to pay more than $500.
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Use cases and applications
Mods and upgrades
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Installing active EMG pickups, originally for Steinberger, enhances the bass's sound significantly, especially for slap and pop techniques.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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The Westone "The Rail" Bass can be seen used throughout the video, and most clearly at 0:15.
In this live televised performance from a 1987 episode of The Tonight Show, Wire was the musical guest. Lewis performed with a Rail 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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