Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (8)
$599.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$599.99
Amazon
4.4 (34)
$599.99
Reverb
5.0 (9)
$519.99 New
$509.89 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (7)
$599.99
Thomann
5.0 (3)
$711.00 $699.00 $12.00 · All time low

Average Price: $590

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Yamaha BB434". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Yamaha BB434 is a modern rendition of the iconic BB bass series, offering a unique blend of classic design aspects alongside innovative enhancements. This instrument is a true embodiment of Yamaha's commitment to providing a pure bass experience, with high-quality construction and superb sound that caters to both seasoned professionals and aspiring beginners.

The BB434 features a thinner neck profile for optimal playability and a balanced design, thanks to the lightweight tuning machines. It boasts a 6-bolt miter neck joint, enhancing stability and contributing to its characteristic sound. In addition, Alder/Maple/Alder construction ensures quick transmission of sound from the strings to the body and neck, providing you with a clear tone and ample punch.

At the heart of the BB434's sound are the custom-wound pickups, designed to achieve higher output gain while retaining the classic BB voicing. Whether you're hitting the stage, auditioning, or simply jamming in the studio, the BB434 offers the versatility and intuitive control to help you express your unique musical voice.

Key Features:

  • Alder/Maple/Alder construction for rapid transmission of sound
  • Custom-wound pickups for higher output gain and classic BB voicing
  • 6-bolt miter neck joint for enhanced stability and sound
  • Thinner neck profile for enhanced playability
  • Lightweight tuning machines for balanced design
  • Yamaha's YGD Custom V5 Alnico V P/J pickup setup for versatile and intuitive control
  • Passive volume/volume/tone control layout for easy sound adjustment
  • Modern appointments such as convertible bridge for optimal sound enhancement

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Yamaha BB Doublecut
Body Material Solid Alder
Body Finish Gloss Polyurethane
Neck Material 5-piece Maple/Mahogany
Neck Shape Thinner BB neck profile
Radius 10"
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 21, Medium
Scale Length 34"
Nut Width 1.57"
Nut Material GraphTech NuBone
Bridge/Tailpiece Vintage Plus Light convertible bridge, steel saddles
Tuners Light weight, open-gear
Neck Pickup VSP5n Alnico V Split Single-coil
Bridge Pickup VSC5b Alnico V Single-coil
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x master tone
Strings D'Addario EXL .045-.100
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the body of the Yamaha BB434 bass?

The Yamaha BB434 features a solid alder body, which is known for its balanced tone and excellent sustain, making it suitable for various music genres.

What is the neck profile like on the Yamaha BB434 bass?

The Yamaha BB434 has a thinner BB neck profile, providing comfortable playability and easy access across the fretboard, which is ideal for both beginners and experienced players.

Are the pickups on the Yamaha BB434 suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Yamaha BB434 is equipped with VSP5n Alnico V split single-coil and VSC5b Alnico V single-coil pickups, which deliver a versatile sound that is well-suited for rock and other genres.

How many frets does the Yamaha BB434 have?

The Yamaha BB434 bass guitar features 21 medium frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and expressive playing.

Is the Yamaha BB434 bass guitar suitable for gigging?

Yes, with its durable construction, high-quality pickups, and versatile tone, the Yamaha BB434 is well-suited for live performances and gigging musicians.

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Yamaha BB Series Demo | BB434

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB Series Demo | BB434 by Yamaha Global

Yamaha BB Series Demo | BB434

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Video thumbnail for Head-to-head bass off!! || Yamaha BB434  Bass Demo / Review / Comparison by Sounds Like Ben

Head-to-head bass off!! || Yamaha BB434 Bass Demo / Review / Comparison

Sounds Like Ben

Sounds Like Ben

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB434 bass - review and demo! by publiuss

Yamaha BB434 bass - review and demo!

publiuss

publiuss

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB434 - Review and Demo by Tom’s Place of Bass

Yamaha BB434 - Review and Demo

Tom’s Place of Bass

Tom’s Place of Bass

Video thumbnail for Rib13 Bass - Yamaha BB434 Bass Review by Rib13 Bass

Rib13 Bass - Yamaha BB434 Bass Review

Rib13 Bass

Rib13 Bass

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB434: classico moderno ultra-versatile by accordoTV

Yamaha BB434: classico moderno ultra-versatile

accordoTV

accordoTV

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB434 Bass Guitar - Demo by IHOMI OC

Yamaha BB434 Bass Guitar - Demo

IHOMI OC

IHOMI OC

Reviews

PROS

  • Impeccable craftsmanship with perfect fit and finish, surpassing Fender quality.

  • Lightweight and balanced design provides comfort during long play sessions.

  • Dual string-through options enhance sustain and tonal options.

  • Versatile pickups offer a wide tonal range, especially for vintage bass tones.

  • Smooth satin neck finish for effortless playability without sanding.

  • High-quality six-bolt neck joint for improved stability.

  • Exceptional value for money, outperforming pricier competitors.

  • Solid and reliable construction with superior Yamaha build quality.

  • Comfortable neck carve, not too thick or thin, ideal for varied play styles.

  • Great fretwork with no sharp edges, ensuring a comfortable playing experience.

CONS

  • Pickup covers can produce an acoustic clackety sound.

  • String tree and output jack screws may require replacement for better durability.

  • Vintage-style bridge might need upgrading for improved punch and sustain.

  • Slightly smaller body size than previous BB models, which may not suit all players.

  • Occasional quality control issues like misaligned bolts and moving string trees.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha BB434.

Features and functionality

  • The BB434 features a 6-screw neck attachment, providing superior stability compared to standard bolt-on designs.

    Source
  • The BB434's Alnico V pickups are described as hotter, offering tones reminiscent of the late 70s/early 80s, suitable for blending classic P tones with brightness.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some BB434 units may experience neck dive due to a large headstock; lightweight tuners can help, though modifications might be needed due to large tuner bores.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BB434's nut width is 40mm, which is between the typical Jazz (38mm) and Precision (42mm) bass widths, offering a unique neck feel.

    Source
  • The neck of the BB434 is wider than a Jazz bass but slimmer than a P bass in width, while having a deeper profile than Fender necks, providing a chunky yet satisfying feel.

    Source
  • The BB434 is described as feeling like an $800 instrument, whereas the BBP feels like a $3000 instrument, highlighting a significant difference in perceived quality.

    Source
  • The BB734 is noted to have a painted neck finish, unlike the BBP34's natural/satin finish, affecting the tactile experience during play.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The BB434 is recommended over the 200 series for its improved pickups, offering significant tonal benefits for a beginner within a $500-600 budget.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the BB434 is comfortable to play almost immediately out of the box, making it a favorable choice for beginners and experienced players alike.

    Source
  • Some users find the neck depth of the BB434 too chunky compared to TRBX and Ibanez SR necks, potentially affecting playability for those accustomed to slimmer necks.

    Source
  • Some owners find the active circuit on the BB734 manageable, with balanced output volume between active and passive modes, contrary to concerns about excessive hotness.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The BB434 is highlighted for its versatility in achieving classic P tones for vintage and Motown sounds, with the ability to mix in J tones for added brightness.

    Source
  • The BBP is praised for its fast and smooth neck with excellent fretwork, suitable for achieving both classic P and hybrid Jazz tones.

    Source

Critic Reviews

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

mixdownmag.com.au

The Yamaha BB434 is a standout in the Broad Bass series, offering a refined blend of style and substance. Its five-piece maple neck and Alnico V magnets provide exceptional sustain and versatile tones, from warm passive sounds to vibrant active settings. While the neck's firm attachment might seem overkill, it enhances sustain, making it a solid choice for bassists seeking a dynamic instrument. The review praises its modern design without getting too futuristic and highlights its balance between innovation and playability. Overall, the BB434 is a versatile workhorse for any bassist.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
E

Way underrated

This bass hits way above its weight class. My favorite part is the neck. 5 piece unfinished flat neck design is just so smooth to play. No fret sprouting or anything.

For $519 this bass is a steal.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how ishiwatari makiko uses Yamaha BB434

ishiwatari makiko

Bassist

the peggies

...
Verified via Twitter

Makiko mentions using a Yamaha BB bass.

See how Richard Jones uses Yamaha BB434

Richard Jones

Bassist

Stereophonics

...
Verified via Charlieraven

In a photograph by Charlie Raven, Richard Jones is seen playing a Yamaha BB434 bass in Vintage Sunburst during Stereophonics' live performance in Bournemouth.

Genre Usage

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

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