Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$4,099.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (6)
$4,099.99
Amazon
$4,099.99 New
$3,439.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$3,312.66 New
$3,699.99 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (10)
$4,099.99

Average Price: $3,902

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

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

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Description

The Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings bass guitar is a masterclass in craftsmanship and versatility, meticulously designed to meet the demanding standards of legendary bassist Nathan East. Whether you're laying down grooves for a studio session or rocking the stage at a live gig, this bass provides an unmatched tonal range and clarity. At the heart of this powerhouse is the Nathan East designed active electronics system, featuring a unique "magic box" circuitry that allows you to fine-tune your midrange frequencies, ensuring your sound cuts through any mix with precision.

The stunning neck-through design is complemented by an ebony fretboard, offering not only incredible playability but also ensuring every note resonates with clarity and sustain. The Yamaha Indivisual Bridge further enhances note definition and prolongs sustain by minimizing cross-talk between the strings with its individual saddles. This thoughtful engineering makes the Nathan East 5 Strings an essential tool for bassists seeking both reliability and expressive potential.

Built with a combination of maple and alder, the body of this bass guitar offers a balanced tone that is both rich and articulate. The Alnico V pickups, specially voiced for Nathan East, deliver a dynamic range perfect for genres spanning from jazz to rock. With its 24-fret, five-piece maple and mahogany neck, this bass is not just an instrument—it's a statement of quality and performance.

Key Features:

  • Nathan East designed active electronics system with "magic box" mid-cut
  • Yamaha Indivisual Bridge for enhanced note clarity and sustain
  • Neck-through design with ebony fretboard for superior sustain
  • Alnico V pickups voiced by Nathan East
  • Body constructed from a blend of maple and alder
  • 24-fret, five-piece maple/mahogany neck

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape BB Nathan East
Body Material Maple/Alder
Body Finish Urethane
Neck Material Maple/Mahogany
Radius 19.6"
Fingerboard Inlay Figured Abalone Blocks
Number of Frets 24
Scale Length 34"
Nut Width 1.692"
Bridge/Tailpiece Yamaha BPZ-7 (no piezo)
Tuners Mother-of-pearl
Neck Pickup Alnico V Stack
Bridge Pickup Alnico V Stack
Controls 1 x Volume, 1 x Balancer, 3-band EQ, Mid Cut Frequency, Mid Cut Switch
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of music is the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings suitable for?

The Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings is versatile and suitable for various genres, including jazz, pop, and blues. Its design and electronics cater to professional musicians looking for rich, dynamic tones.

What are the standout features of the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings bass?

This bass features a unique maple/alder body, Alnico V Stack pickups, and a 3-band EQ with a mid-cut switch, providing a wide range of tonal possibilities and precision control.

How does the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings compare to other Yamaha basses?

The Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings offers premium materials and electronics, such as a maple/mahogany neck and figured abalone inlays, making it a top choice for professional bassists seeking high-quality sound and playability.

Is the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings comfortable for long playing sessions?

Yes, the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings is designed with a 34" scale length and a comfortable neck profile, making it suitable for extended playing without fatigue.

Does the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings come with a case?

Yes, the Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings includes a hardshell case, providing protection and convenience for transport and storage.

Bass Musician Magazine

Bass Musician Magazine

Bass Musician Magazine Reviews the Yamaha BBNE2

Video thumbnail for Bass Musician Magazine Reviews the Yamaha BBNE2 by Bass Musician Magazine

Bass Musician Magazine Reviews the Yamaha BBNE2

Bass Musician Magazine

Bass Musician Magazine

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Nathan East BBNE2: "Test & Recensione" by accordoTV

Yamaha Nathan East BBNE2: "Test & Recensione"

accordoTV

accordoTV

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Nathan East BBNEII Bass - The Ultimate Jazz Bass? by Brooksy's Bass Corner

Yamaha Nathan East BBNEII Bass - The Ultimate Jazz Bass?

Brooksy's Bass Corner

Brooksy's Bass Corner

Video thumbnail for Yamaha BBNE2 Nathan East 5 String Bass White by South Shore Music

Yamaha BBNE2 Nathan East 5 String Bass White

South Shore Music

South Shore Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings.

Comparisons

  • Owners suggest Yamaha offers better value and quality over Fender in 5-string models, supported by Nathan East's use of Yamaha for professional performance.

    Source
  • The Yamaha BBNE2 is noted for its rarity and design, making it a unique find compared to the more commonly available Stingray models.

    Source
  • Owners often compare Yamaha's TRBX and BB series favorably against Squier's Classic Vibe and Affinity series, citing better build quality and tone for the price.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Successful low B string tone requires a 4x10 cabinet with a 700-watt amp for optimal headroom and taper wound B strings for flexibility.

    Source

User experience

  • The Yamaha BB435's design allows string mounting through the body or bridge, with a reinforced neck and no active electronics, delivering exceptional sound quality.

    Source
  • An owner of a Stingray 5 Double Humbucker emphasizes its role as a go-to instrument due to its comprehensive range and adaptability, primarily using the bridge pickup.

    Source
  • Players transitioning from other bass brands note Yamaha necks, particularly on the BB series, feel rawer and less finished, affecting playability preference.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • TRBX605FM features 24 frets and alnico pickups, providing versatile tone options, making it a strong contender for those seeking enhanced playability.

    Source
  • The Yamaha BBNE2 includes an onboard parametric EQ, which offers enhanced versatility and mix integration, appealing to session players.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the Stingray's onboard preamp as a standout feature, providing significant tonal flexibility across various musical styles.

    Source
  • The Yamaha TRB1006 is praised for its sturdy design and ease of live play, with sound engineers favoring its mix-friendly tone.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Sadowsky metroexpress users recommend adding a tone knob to enhance tonal control, indicating potential for customization.

    Source
  • One owner upgraded their TRBX170 with Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounders after experiencing issues with the stock neck pickup, significantly enhancing the bass's tonal clarity.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Stingray 5 Special is praised for its aggressive tone and versatility, effectively handling genres from rock and jazz to funk and metal.

    Source

Build quality

  • Many owners are impressed with the TRBX174's exceptional fretwork and finish quality, especially at its price point, making it stand out among budget basses.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The BB435 and BB234 are highlighted as offering exceptional value, with build quality and finishing surpassing similarly priced Squier models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha Nathan East Signature BBNEII review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Yamaha Nathan East Signature BBNEII bass guitar impresses with its powerful tones and exceptional playability, making it a solid choice for serious musicians. With its sleek design and high-quality hardware, the BBNEII exudes class and versatility, offering a wide range of sounds suitable for various musical styles. The instrument's construction ensures excellent sustain and resonance, though its hefty weight might not appeal to everyone. While the price is on the higher side, the bass delivers in quality and performance. The low B string's slightly loose response is a minor drawback, but overall, it's a robust and refined instrument worth considering.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Markus Grosskopf uses Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings

Markus Grosskopf

Bassist

Helloween

...
Verified via YouTube

Markus Großkopf used this bass during Helloween live on 3 Continents on Keeper Of The Seven Keys - The Legacy World Tour 2005/2006. Also he plays The King for 1000 Years with that particular Bass.

Album Usage

The Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings 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 Yamaha Nathan East 5 Strings, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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