Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (12)
$359.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (12)
$359.99
Amazon
4.4 (60)
$359.99
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$336.06 New
$243.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (7)
$359.99

Average Price: $337

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Yamaha BB234". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Yamaha BB234 Electric Bass is a prime example of Yamaha's dedication to crafting exceptional instruments that cater to musicians at all levels. Designed with both comfort and sound quality in mind, this bass offers a remarkable blend of playability and tonal versatility. The BB234's alder body ensures a lightweight and resonant foundation, while its sleek maple neck and rosewood fretboard provide a smooth, fast playing experience that accommodates both beginners and experienced players.

Equipped with dual Yamaha V3 pickups, the BB234 delivers a dynamic range of tones that can easily adapt to various musical styles. Whether you're after the deep growl of a P-bass or the crisp snap of a J-bass, the BB234 allows you to dial in your desired sound with ease. Its ergonomic design, featuring contoured edges and strategic body cuts, ensures hours of comfortable play, making it an ideal choice for both practice sessions and live performances.

Built to withstand the rigors of the road, the BB234 features durable chrome hardware and a robust build that promises longevity without compromising on sound quality. This electric bass offers a professional-grade experience at an entry-level price, proving that exceptional sound and construction do not have to come at a premium.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with a gloss finish
  • Maple neck with a 22-fret rosewood fingerboard
  • Custom-wound Yamaha V3 "P" and "J" style pickups
  • 4-saddle adjustable bridge and open gear tuners
  • Comfortable contoured body design for enhanced playability

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model BB234-VW 4-String
Finish Vintage White
Year 2010s
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family White
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of neck profile does the Yamaha BB234 have?

The Yamaha BB234 features a modern "C" profile neck, which offers a comfortable and versatile playing experience suitable for a variety of playing styles.

What type of pickups are installed in the Yamaha BB234?

The Yamaha BB234 is equipped with custom-wound Yamaha "P" and "J"-style passive pickups, providing a versatile range of tones suitable for different musical genres.

Is the Yamaha BB234 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Yamaha BB234 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile, versatile pickup configuration, and solid build quality.

How many frets does the Yamaha BB234 have?

The Yamaha BB234 features a 21-fret rosewood fingerboard, allowing for a wide range of notes and playability.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha BB234?

The Yamaha BB234 has a gloss-finish alder body with a rosewood fretboard on a maple neck, providing a balanced tone and durable construction.

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Yamaha BB Series Demo | BB234

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB Series Demo | BB234 by Yamaha Global

Yamaha BB Series Demo | BB234

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 | One Bad (as in good) Bass Guitar by C. A. House Music

Yamaha BB234 | One Bad (as in good) Bass Guitar

C. A. House Music

C. A. House Music

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 BroadBass - Review & Demo by cheers.com.au

Yamaha BB234 BroadBass - Review & Demo

cheers.com.au

cheers.com.au

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 Bass Guitar Demo at Music World Ipswich by Music World

Yamaha BB234 Bass Guitar Demo at Music World Ipswich

Music World

Music World

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 Broadbass vs Ibanez TMB100 Talman Bass   PJ Shootout by cheers.com.au

Yamaha BB234 Broadbass vs Ibanez TMB100 Talman Bass PJ Shootout

cheers.com.au

cheers.com.au

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 Broadbass performed by Victor Levchenko by Victor Levchenko

Yamaha BB234 Broadbass performed by Victor Levchenko

Victor Levchenko

Victor Levchenko

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 Bass | Quicklook by Sam Ash Music

Yamaha BB234 Bass | Quicklook

Sam Ash Music

Sam Ash Music

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB234 Electric Bass Review and Demo by Fret Zealot

Yamaha BB234 Electric Bass Review and Demo

Fret Zealot

Fret Zealot

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Broad Bass BB234 by Prog Rock Jock

Yamaha Broad Bass BB234

Prog Rock Jock

Prog Rock Jock

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent build quality with no sharp fret edges or loose components

  • Lightweight and well-balanced, enhancing playability

  • Impressive tonal range for both vintage and modern sounds

  • Satin neck finish for smooth playability

  • High-quality craftsmanship surpassing many higher-priced competitors

  • Versatile string-through body options

  • Ready-to-play out of the box with minimal setup required

  • Great value for money, competing well against premium brands

  • Sturdy pots and smooth tuning pegs

CONS

  • J pickup is noisy and of lower quality

  • Some quality control issues like poorly secured screws and finish imperfections

  • Pots can be a bit scratchy with extended use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha BB234.

Build quality

  • The BB234's fretboard width is noted to be between a P-bass and a Jazz bass, offering a balanced playability.

    Source
  • The BB234 is highlighted for its aesthetic appeal, particularly noted in the white finish, which is favored by some owners.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users reported initial setup issues requiring adjustments, especially with action and intonation, recommending a professional setup if unfamiliar with bass setups.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the BB234's solid craftsmanship and reliable quality control, with some comparing it favorably to Yamaha's higher-end models.

    Source
  • Owners note no neck or body dive and solid tuning stability, enhancing playability during long sessions.

    Source
  • Owners report the BB234 can achieve a decent Jazz sound by adjusting the pickup blend, though not a true Jazz bass sound.

    Source
  • Despite preferring passive setups, some users find the BB234's P-bass sound preferable, influencing future choices toward P-bass models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The BB234's combination of P and J pickups provides versatile tonal options, appealing to those who value diverse sound capabilities.

    Source
  • The BB234's slimmer neck is appreciated by some, though not as thin as the TRBX, which might suit players with smaller hands or arthritis better.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The BB234 is praised for its passive pickups, offering a distinct sound that complements various genres without requiring an active preamp.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BB434 is described as a significant upgrade with a compound neck, mitered neck joint, and through-body stringing, making it more suitable for long-term use.

    Source
  • The TRBX304 is described as a "Super J bass," akin to modernized Jazz Basses, with features like 24 frets and soapbar pickups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Considered a solid investment for its price range, the BB234 offers high value for those seeking a versatile PJ setup without active electronics.

    Source

Critic Reviews

REVIEW: Yamaha BB234 bass guitar - Fret Zealot

fretzealot.com

The Yamaha BB234 bass guitar impresses with its versatility and ergonomic design, making it a solid choice for beginners and seasoned players alike. With dual pickups offering a range of tonal options and a comfortable alder body, it delivers a classic, clean sound suitable for a variety of genres from rock to jazz. The passive hardware ensures reliability, while the stylish black gloss finish adds a touch of class. Though not for those seeking an active system, its simplicity and playability shine through, making it a commendable option for its price range.

positive

Reviewed: Yamaha Broad Bass BB 234, 434 and 734 - Mixdown Magazine

mixdownmag.com.au

The Yamaha BB234 bass is a solid entry-level instrument boasting impressive versatility and sleek design. Its standout feature is the Custom V3 ceramic pickup system, offering a range of tonal possibilities reminiscent of a P-Bass. The one-piece maple neck enhances playability and stability. While it might lack the premium features of its higher-end siblings, the BB434 and BB734, it delivers a satisfying playing experience with glassy overtones and a modern aesthetic. Overall, Yamaha's BB234 is a well-crafted, stylish bass that offers excellent value and playability for its price.

positive
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
emuemulator2

Actually pretty good now that I've worked on it

After a lot of neglect, I have now turned this thing into a pretty decent bass. Adjusted truss rod, intonation, a lil bit of fretboard rehydration, and sweat wiped off of neck, then restrung with Roto 66s. Now it's actually really good, I plan to eventually add better pickups and maybe a hi-mass bridge. But the playability is great now. Pots are a little scratchy but I'm actually really impressed with the tone. I'm in the market for a Fender P bass but that can honestly wait a little while thanks to this providing a solid P bass sound.

dotti_wellard

Excellent

The best P/J bass for value on the market. Absolutely amazing quality with incredible build and tonal qualities. Forever my Number 1.

From Gear Setup
douglastian

A great bass guitar with a good price

The Yamaha BB234 is a great piece of instrument which as a very good price,and I am currently using it.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha BB234, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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dotti_wellard

dotti_wellard

Gear IQ 1750

dotti_wellard

dotti_wellard

Gear IQ 1750

1 alternative for Yamaha BB234, curated by the Equipboard community.

Fender Precision PJ Bass

$136.97

high-end alternative

Same Pickup configuration , scale length and nut width

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