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Average Price: $314

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

In the world of bass guitars, the Yamaha RBX170 stands out as an exceptional blend of performance, style, and value. Crafted with a solid agathis body, this bass is designed to deliver rich, resonant tones that are perfect for both budding bassists and seasoned professionals. The sleek, ergonomic body shape ensures a comfortable playing experience, allowing you to effortlessly explore the entire fretboard.

The P/J pickup configuration provides a versatile tonal palette, combining the deep, solid fundamentals of a Precision-style split-coil with the articulate growl of a Jazz-style single-coil. This setup empowers you to effortlessly switch between different sonic landscapes, making it an ideal choice for various musical genres.

Equipped with a fast-action maple neck and a smooth rosewood fingerboard, the RBX170 promises remarkable playability. Whether you’re laying down tight grooves or engaging in intricate solos, this bass responds beautifully to your touch. The chrome hardware, including tuners and bridge, not only enhances the instrument's aesthetic appeal but also ensures reliable performance.

Yamaha's commitment to quality is evident in every detail of the RBX170. With a reputation for crafting top-notch instruments, Yamaha backs this bass with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, giving you peace of mind with every purchase. Elevate your musical journey with the Yamaha RBX170—a bass that truly delivers on sound, style, and substance.

Key Features:

  • Solid agathis body for rich, resonant tones
  • Fast-action maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
  • P/J pickup configuration for versatile sound options
  • Chrome hardware for durability and style
  • Yamaha Limited Lifetime Warranty for assured quality

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model RBX170 4-String Bass Guitar
Finish Metallic Red
Year 2010s
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the body of the Yamaha RBX 170?

The Yamaha RBX 170 features a solid agathis body, which contributes to its balanced tone and lightweight feel, making it suitable for extended playing sessions.

What kind of pickups does the Yamaha RBX 170 have?

The Yamaha RBX 170 is equipped with dual P/J-style passive pickups, offering versatile tonal options suitable for various music genres, from rock to jazz.

Is the Yamaha RBX 170 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Yamaha RBX 170 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its comfortable playability, affordable price point, and versatile sound capabilities.

How many frets does the Yamaha RBX 170 have?

The Yamaha RBX 170 features a rosewood fingerboard with 24 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and extended playability.

Does the Yamaha RBX 170 come with a case?

No, the Yamaha RBX 170 does not come with a case; it is sold separately. It's advisable to purchase a case for protection and easy transportation.

Paul Annis

Paul Annis

Yamaha RBX170 Bass Review

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX170 Bass Review by Paul Annis

Yamaha RBX170 Bass Review

Paul Annis

Paul Annis

Video thumbnail for Product Spotlight - Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar by Guitar Center

Product Spotlight - Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX170 by Eiland Muziek

Yamaha RBX170

Eiland Muziek

Eiland Muziek

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX 170 and BE NICE TO SOLO GUITARS by Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Yamaha RBX 170 and BE NICE TO SOLO GUITARS

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX 170 "Don't take me lightly" by Johnny Lee Long

Yamaha RBX 170 "Don't take me lightly"

Johnny Lee Long

Johnny Lee Long

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar by Yamaha Music Australia

Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar

Yamaha Music Australia

Video thumbnail for Yamaha rbx 170. Test (Alex KinBass) by Alex KinBass

Yamaha rbx 170. Test (Alex KinBass)

Alex KinBass

Alex KinBass

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha RBX 170.

Features and functionality

  • Owners report the Yamaha RBX170 can maintain a punchy sound with the treble turned up, even on old strings.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Swapping the bridge pickup for a Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounder yields a brighter sound, enhancing the RBX170's tonal range.

    Source
  • An owner recommends Gotoh tuners for their precision and smoother operation compared to the stock tuners.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The RBX170 can be effectively repurposed by defretting, giving it a new life and extending its utility over decades.

    Source
  • Some professionals continue to use the RBX170 long after starting, indicating its longevity and relevance beyond beginner use.

    Source
  • Ideal for genres like indie and alternative rock, aligning with bands like The 1975 and Arctic Monkeys.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note the Yamaha RBX170 feels better to play compared to Squier Affinity, VM models, and Ibanez GIO series at a similar price point.

    Source
  • Users generally rank the Yamaha RBX170 as superior to most "off brand" basses like Flight in terms of quality.

    Source
  • RBX170 and TRBX174 have similar electronics; differences are mainly in body/headstock shape and wood, minimally affecting tone.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Boiling old strings on the RBX170 can rejuvenate their brightness without immediate replacement.

    Source

User experience

  • A user noted that their Yamaha RBX170 is lighter than their older RBX360 model, yet it retains a great sound.

    Source
  • Owners with small hands report initial difficulty reaching lower strings but improve with practice.

    Source
  • Yamaha RBX170 offers unexpected tonal flexibility, delivering punchier tones with the right settings on a VOX amp.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • It's suggested to purchase a used RBX170 from stores that buy and sell music equipment to maximize value.

    Source
  • Both the RBX170 and TRBX174 are recommended as solid starter basses without significant tonal differences for beginners.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
pietroschaff

The best passive bass you'll get for a low price

The rosewood fingerboard provides a soft arm to play with while the precision pickup gives you an aggressive sound. At the same time, the Jazz pickup adds a touch of versatility to the instrument, which is also given to the fact that this bass has 24 frets.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Frank Ocean uses Yamaha RBX 170

Frank Ocean

Singer, Rapper

Odd Future

...
Verified via Dolphinmusic

Bass used to record "Pink Matter"

See how Zubin Sedghi uses Yamaha RBX 170

Zubin Sedghi

Singer, Bassist

Tally Hall

...
Verified via Photo

Zubin used a Yamaha RBX 170 at a Tally Hall show at the Blind Pig on February 5, 2003, he likely used this bass at many other early shows before switching to a Fender Jazz Bass.

See how Matt Sever uses Yamaha RBX 170

Matt Sever

Bassist

Cojum Dip

...
Verified via Photo

In these photos, Matt can be seen using the Yamaha RBX 170.

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 RBX 170, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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