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Average Price: $333

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Yamaha RBX170Y 4-String Electric Bass Guitar is the perfect entry point into the world of bass playing, combining Yamaha's legendary craftsmanship with an accessible price point. Designed for both budding bassists and seasoned players seeking an affordable yet quality instrument, the RBX170Y doesn't compromise on style or performance. Featuring a solid basswood body, this guitar delivers a well-rounded, punchy tone that's perfect for any genre.

The versatile electronics consist of dual classic-style pickups, allowing you to seamlessly switch between a deep, rich sound and a bright, punchy tone. The maple neck with a smooth rosewood fingerboard ensures a comfortable playing experience, whether you're jamming with friends or practicing solo. Chrome tuners and bridge add to the instrument's durability and aesthetic appeal, making it a reliable choice for gigs and studio sessions alike.

Not just a tool, but a partner in creativity, the Yamaha RBX170Y Electric Bass Guitar is a testament to Yamaha’s commitment to quality and innovation, giving you the freedom to explore your musical potential without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

  • Solid basswood body for a balanced and resonant tone
  • Dual classic-style pickups for diverse sound options
  • Maple neck paired with a rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Durable chrome tuners and bridge for stable tuning
  • Passive tone controls for simple sound customization

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model RBX170Y-OVS 4-String Bass
Finish Old Violin Sunburst
Year 2010s
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
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 pickups does the Yamaha RBX170Y feature?

The Yamaha RBX170Y is equipped with passive pickups in a P/J configuration, featuring a split single-coil in the middle and a single-coil at the bridge.

Is the Yamaha RBX170Y suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Yamaha RBX170Y is well-suited for beginners, offering a comfortable C-shaped neck and a lightweight basswood body, making it easy to handle and play.

What is the neck profile of the Yamaha RBX170Y?

The Yamaha RBX170Y features a C-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable grip that is ideal for both beginners and experienced players.

How many frets does the Yamaha RBX170Y have?

The Yamaha RBX170Y has 24 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and increased playability across different musical styles.

What kind of body shape does the Yamaha RBX170Y have?

The Yamaha RBX170Y features a double cutaway body shape, which provides easy access to higher frets and enhances playability.

basslyon

basslyon

Mike Lyon demonstrates the Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar

Video thumbnail for Mike Lyon demonstrates the Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar by basslyon

Mike Lyon demonstrates the Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar

basslyon

basslyon

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Bass Demonstration RBX 170, BB234, BB435, TRBX304, RBX4A2, TRBX505  || Igor Odaryuk by 🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Yamaha Bass Demonstration RBX 170, BB234, BB435, TRBX304, RBX4A2, TRBX505 || Igor Odaryuk

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar Description by guitarmax42

Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar Description

guitarmax42

guitarmax42

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar by Yamaha Music Australia

Yamaha RBX170 Bass Guitar

Yamaha Music Australia

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha RBX170Y 4-String Electric Bass Guitar.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners frequently replace the bridge pickup with a Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounder for a brighter sound.

    Source
  • Upgrading to LaBella flats or tapes is popular among Ibanez Mikro owners, which suggests a potential improvement in tonal quality for the RBX170Y as well.

    Source

User experience

  • A user reported boiling old strings to restore brightness, providing a cost-effective maintenance tip.

    Source
  • One owner detuned their RBX170 for a fretless experience after 25 years, highlighting its durability and versatility.

    Source
  • Users with smaller hands report that the Yamaha RBX170Y's neck is more comfortable than many other basses, making it suitable for players with limited hand reach.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A Yamaha RBX170 user noted it impressed a friend who owns a Warwick Corvette, suggesting unexpected quality for its price point.

    Source
  • The Yamaha RBX170Y is compared favorably in size and ease of use to the Squier Jaguar short scale, noted for its playability for those with smaller hands.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Accurate nut replacement requires precise measurements; owners suggest using calipers and filing for a perfect fit.

    Source
  • Replacing the nut can be challenging and time-consuming; professional setup is recommended for optimal performance.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A comprehensive setup with new strings and a nut replacement typically costs around $100, enhancing the bass's playability significantly.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Yamaha RBX170Y is highlighted as a suitable first bass for beginners due to its manageable size and playability, particularly for those concerned about hand size.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jeffreymmviii

Great bass for studio type recording

Basswood Body

Maple neck with rosewood fretboard

Split single coil middle and single-coil bridge pickups

4 saddle adjustable bridges, die cast tuning machines

couldn't go wrong with this one

From Gear Setup

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 RBX170Y 4-String Electric Bass Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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jeffreymmviii

jeffreymmviii

Gear IQ 1991

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