Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,192

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Discover the Yamaha TRB 5, a bass guitar that beautifully bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. Crafted for the discerning bassist, this instrument combines timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge technology to deliver a playing experience that is both inspiring and versatile. The TRB 5 boasts a swamp ash body with the option of maple, bubinga, or ovangkol tops, providing a stunning visual appeal alongside enhanced tonal characteristics. Its through-body maple neck ensures superior sustain and playability, while the 24-fret ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, responsive touch.

What truly sets the Yamaha TRB 5 apart is its meticulously designed electronics. Equipped with Yamaha’s proprietary piezo-loaded BPZ-7 bridge and Alnico V hum-canceling pickups, this bass provides a wide spectrum of sounds—from the mellow resonance of an upright bass to the punchy brightness needed for aggressive rock. The active 3-band EQ allows for precise tonal sculpting, making it adaptable to any musical style or setting.

Whether you're laying down the groove in a bustling jazz club or anchoring a rock band in a stadium, the Yamaha TRB 5 offers the playability and tone to meet every demand. Its combination of premium materials and advanced electronics make it an exceptional choice for professional bassists seeking a reliable and expressive instrument.

Key Features:

  • Swamp ash body with options for maple, bubinga, or ovangkol top
  • Through-body maple neck with 24-fret ebony fingerboard
  • Yamaha's piezo-loaded BPZ-7 bridge
  • Alnico V hum-canceling pickups
  • Active 3-band EQ for versatile sound shaping
  • 35" scale neck for extended range and playability

FAQs

What type of neck construction does the Yamaha TRB 5 have?

The Yamaha TRB 5 features a through-neck construction, which enhances sustain and provides a seamless playing experience.

What is the scale length of the Yamaha TRB 5 bass?

The Yamaha TRB 5 has a 35-inch scale length, offering extended range and improved string tension for better playability, especially on the low B string.

What kind of pickups does the Yamaha TRB 5 use?

The Yamaha TRB 5 is equipped with double coil Alnico V pickups and a piezo pickup on the bridge, providing a versatile range of tones suitable for various musical styles.

Is the Yamaha TRB 5 suitable for technical playing styles like slap or fingerstyle?

Yes, the Yamaha TRB 5's design and string spacing are ideal for technical playing styles, offering excellent playability and tone clarity for both slap and fingerstyle techniques.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha TRB 5's body and neck?

The Yamaha TRB 5 features a light ash body with a choice of maple, ovangkol, or bubinga top board, and a neck made from a combination of maple and premium grade mahogany for enhanced durability and tone.

Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

YAMAHA TRB 5

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA TRB 5 by Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

YAMAHA TRB 5

Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA TRB 5 by Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

YAMAHA TRB 5

Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

Beto Gomes Baixista e Luthier

Video thumbnail for Yamaha TRB 5 cordas by Waltz Parts Luthieria

Yamaha TRB 5 cordas

Waltz Parts Luthieria

Waltz Parts Luthieria

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • TRBX models are noted for better balance compared to BB models, which often experience neck dive.

    Source
  • The TRBX series is seen as more modern compared to the vintage-styled BB series, which can sound similar to a Fender PJ.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • TRBX605 and TRBX505 share identical electronics including active/passive switch and a 3-band EQ; differences lie in body material and finish.

    Source
  • TRBX models are described as having a modern sound with dual humbuckers and active electronics which enhance clarity in highs and lows.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • TRBX series basses are popular in genres like jazz, R&B, and gospel due to their modern sound.

    Source
  • Yamaha TRBX605 is praised for versatility across genres from musical theater to funk and church gigs.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Japanese model has slightly better fretwork compared to the Indonesian version, indicating a difference in craftsmanship between the two origins.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • TRB-5ii at $1600 matches current Reverb prices, whereas TRB1005j is significantly more expensive outside Japan, highlighting regional pricing disparities.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners suggest that a lighter bass with better strap balance is crucial for extended play, especially when standing for long durations.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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4 star
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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ida Kristine Nielsen uses Yamaha TRB 5

Ida Kristine Nielsen

Bassist

The New Power Generation

...
Verified via Ida Nielsen

Stated on Ida's official website. It can also be seen on the background of this video: https://youtu.be/gpeaGUFhEKs.

See how Toby Driver uses Yamaha TRB 5

Toby Driver

Singer, Guitarist

Maudlin of the Well

...
Verified via Downtownmusic

Seen here with red 5-string TRB

See how Silvia The Witch uses Yamaha TRB 5

Silvia The Witch

Bassist

Necromancer's Tale

...
Verified via Facebook

This bass was his first five string. It was only used for some live, it was mostly used to study.

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 TRB 5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

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