Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (11)
$949.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (3)
$949.99
Amazon
5.0 (14)
$949.99 New
$854.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
4.0 (1)
$881.76 New
$629.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (9)
$949.99
zZounds
5.0 (8)
$949.99
Thomann
3.8 (5)
$1,090.00
Gear4Music
£969.00

Average Price: $919

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Yamaha BB735A". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Yamaha BB735A is a dynamic 5-string electric bass that excels in both sound and craftsmanship, making it a standout choice for versatile musicians. Designed with the modern bassist in mind, this instrument combines classic construction with innovative technology to offer a wide palette of tones. The 6-bolt miter neck joint ensures a seamless connection between neck and body, enhancing sustain and resonance. This, paired with the Vintage Plus bridge featuring diagonal body-through stringing, means each note is delivered with clarity and power.

The BB735A is equipped with YGD Custom V7 pickups, enriched with Alnico magnets, producing a robust and penetrating tone that complements its Alder/Maple/Alder body construction. The active/passive circuit with a 3-band EQ provides flexible sound shaping, whether you’re going for a crisp, modern sound or a warmer, classic tone. With its lightweight tuners, the bass maintains a well-balanced feel, perfect for long performances.

Yamaha’s attention to detail is evident in the high-quality hardware, including stainless steel screws and springs to resist corrosion, ensuring this bass remains a reliable companion for years. Whether on stage or in the studio, the Yamaha BB735A promises a performance that is both expressive and enduring.

Key Features:

  • Alder/Maple/Alder multi-laminated body construction
  • 6-bolt miter neck joint for improved sustain and resonance
  • YGD Custom V7 pickups with Alnico magnets
  • Active/passive circuit with 3-band EQ
  • Vintage Plus bridge with diagonal body-through stringing
  • Lightweight tuners for improved balance
  • Stainless steel hardware for corrosion resistance

Product specs

Available since December 2022
Colour Black
Soundboard Alder
Neck Maple, Mahogany
Fretboard Rosewood
Frets 21
Scale Long Scale
Pickup System JP
Elektronic Aktive, Passive
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag Yes
Body Alder

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Yamaha BB735A have?

The Yamaha BB735A features a JP pickup configuration, combining a split single-coil and a single-coil pickup, allowing for a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres.

Is the Yamaha BB735A suitable for beginner bass players?

The Yamaha BB735A is designed for both intermediate and advanced players, offering features like active/passive electronics and a long scale, which may be more than a beginner needs but provides room to grow.

Does the Yamaha BB735A come with a gig bag?

Yes, the Yamaha BB735A includes a gig bag, providing basic protection for transport and storage.

Can the Yamaha BB735A be used in both active and passive modes?

Yes, the Yamaha BB735A features active/passive electronics, allowing players to switch between active and passive modes for a wide range of tonal possibilities.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha BB735A?

The Yamaha BB735A is constructed with an alder body, a maple and mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard, contributing to its rich and balanced tone.

Bagus Muhammad Nur

Bagus Muhammad Nur

YAMAHA BB735A vs BB435 Comparison | 1 minute review

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA BB735A vs BB435 Comparison | 1 minute review by Bagus Muhammad Nur

YAMAHA BB735A vs BB435 Comparison | 1 minute review

Bagus Muhammad Nur

Bagus Muhammad Nur

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB735A Review - A middle of the line Yamaha with high end features -LowEndLobster Review by LowEndLobster

Yamaha BB735A Review - A middle of the line Yamaha with high end features -LowEndLobster Review

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB735A/734A Tone Demo | Fingerstyle | Slap | Pickstyle by Tyler Spicer

Yamaha BB735A/734A Tone Demo | Fingerstyle | Slap | Pickstyle

Tyler Spicer

Tyler Spicer

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB735a | First Impressions Review | Short Tone Demo by Tyler Spicer

Yamaha BB735a | First Impressions Review | Short Tone Demo

Tyler Spicer

Tyler Spicer

Video thumbnail for My Go-To Bass Guitar: Yamaha BB735A | JAY'S TOOLBOX by JayLeonardJ

My Go-To Bass Guitar: Yamaha BB735A | JAY'S TOOLBOX

JayLeonardJ

JayLeonardJ

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB735A EQ Test || Igor Odaryuk by 🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Yamaha BB735A EQ Test || Igor Odaryuk

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Video thumbnail for What's all the fuss about?! | Yamaha BB735A [Review/Demo] by Jonny Dibble

What's all the fuss about?! | Yamaha BB735A [Review/Demo]

Jonny Dibble

Jonny Dibble

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA BB735A by Josue Melgar Bajo

YAMAHA BB735A

Josue Melgar Bajo

Josue Melgar Bajo

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB735A by 🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Yamaha BB735A

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BB735A by Below Average Joe

Yamaha BB735A

Below Average Joe

Below Average Joe

Reviews

PROS

  • Mitered neck joint and angled bridge provide excellent tone and sustain

  • Versatile tone with active and passive modes, minimal volume drop in passive

  • Great playability with comfortable string spacing and flat fingerboard

  • High-quality build and finish, comparable to high-end Fenders

  • Lightweight design with impressive balance and comfort for long sessions

  • Stunning visual appeal with finishes like dark tobacco sunburst and matt black

  • Excellent craftsmanship, especially with neck and fretboard, ensuring smooth playability

  • Effective pickup design for both vintage and modern tones

  • String-through body and bridge options enhance versatility

  • Suitable for a wide range of music styles, especially funk and rock

CONS

  • Some units require initial setup adjustments like truss rod and intonation

  • Occasional quality control issues, including fret imperfections and loose pickups

  • Electronic components can produce hum, especially with bridge pickup

  • Volume and blend knob placement might interfere with certain playing styles

  • Passive mode can become non-functional over time, requiring potential repairs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha BB735A.

Features and functionality

  • The passive mode delivers a strong sound using just the P pickup or a blend, suitable for genres like 80s pop and disco.

    Source
  • The BB735A can achieve better B string performance by adjusting plucking position closer to the bridge, enhancing note definition.

    Source
  • The mid control on the active EQ provides a solid scoop and appealing mid-boost, but the bass and treble knobs are less useful, introducing excessive boom and brightness.

    Source

User experience

  • Switching to strings with a tapered B core, such as Ken Smith, can drastically improve the B string's performance when strung through the body.

    Source
  • The neck is described as feeling very flat, which might appeal to players who prefer slimmer neck profiles for easier playability.

    Source
  • One user found the B string problematic for tone, indicating it may not perform well without further adjustment or modification.

    Source
  • After prolonged use, one owner reported a tuning gear developed a rattle, which they temporarily fixed with gaffa tape.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • DR Low Rider strings provide a satisfying thud in low-end and mids, but taperwound alternatives tighten the B string for more articulate play.

    Source
  • Works well for both fingerstyle and pick playing, with versatility for slapping in a big band setting.

    Source
  • The Yamaha BB735A's output is extremely hot, suited for rock or metal, with excessive high-end potentially overpowering for softer genres.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BB735A shares a 5-piece neck with the BBP35, but the BBP35 includes Yamaha's "initial response acceleration" for a broken-in feel.

    Source
  • The Yamaha BB735A's sound is likened to a Musicman pickup due to its brightness, despite the PJ style, making it stand out with a modern aggressive tone.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Taperwound B strings, like DR Tapered Core Long Necks, significantly improve the B string's definition and articulation in faster passages.

    Source
  • Some owners report that the BB735A requires a thorough setup out of the box to achieve optimal playability, particularly for action height and intonation adjustments.

    Source

Build quality

  • The J pickup cover wobbles and clacks, requiring correction possibly by gluing, which is a nuisance for a brand-new bass.

    Source
  • Some units have paintwork issues, such as missed neck bolt holes showing natural woodgrain and a small bump on the instrument's top.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The included Yamaha soft case is highly praised for its quality, being faux fur-lined, padded, and significantly better than typical $50 gig bags.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha BB735A Bass Guitar | Bass Gear Magazine

bassgearmag.com

The Yamaha BB735A is a standout in its price range, boasting impressive craftsmanship and tonal versatility. Its unique P/J pickup configuration delivers a full, rich sound without the usual muddiness, making it perfect for a wide range of genres. While its balance could be slightly improved and the control layout may feel unconventional to some, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise exceptional instrument. With its sleek design and solid performance, the BB735A offers serious value, often rivaling basses priced significantly higher.

positive

Review - Yamaha BB735A 5-String Bass - Bass Musician Magazine, The Face of Bass

bassmusicianmagazine.com

Yamaha's BB735A 5-String Bass dazzles with its versatile tone and solid construction, making it a joy to play both on stage and in practice. The unique 6-bolt neck joint enhances stability, while the active/passive EQ switch allows seamless transitions between sounds. Players will appreciate the feedback from sound engineers who praised its clarity during performances. However, the bass's weight may be a concern for those seeking a lighter instrument, and its finish may not appeal to all aesthetics. Overall, the BB735A is a solid choice for bassists craving reliability and tonal flexibility in their instrument.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
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shifter_bass

Amazing….

I’ve started with the BB235 it sound great, after the BB435 even greater….. now I got the BB735A and wow what can I say that is not been told. If I play passive or active it got punch, crisp ….. wow …. Crazy how Yamaha did an amazing job.

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Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha BB735A, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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lotzi

lotzi

Gear IQ 1007

aoibhe

aoibhe

Gear IQ 90

shifter_bass

shifter_bass

Gear IQ 632

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