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Description

The Hyperbass is the first instrument of its kind, designed specifically for altered tuning. One year in the making, the Hyperbass is Michael Manring's signature instrument, developed in conjunction with and for this virtuoso bassist. The Hyperbass offers limitless altered tunings and an extended range of playability and sounds for the player interested in exploring new directions in bass.

Each version features a three-octave fretless neck and heel-less extended cutaway. A bookmatched curly maple top laminated to a poplar body core gives this bass a full, rich, transparent sound.

All basses feature three-octave fretless fingerboard, deep extended cutaway, bookmatched Curly Maple top, black hardware and single humbucking pickup with ZP2-S active electronics.

©2012 Zon Guitars

Bass PlayerMag

Michael Manring at Bass Player LIVE! 2013

Video thumbnail for Michael Manring at Bass Player LIVE! 2013 by Bass PlayerMag

Michael Manring at Bass Player LIVE! 2013

Bass PlayerMag

Video thumbnail for Michael Manring explains the Hyperbass by Brian Wilson

Michael Manring explains the Hyperbass

Brian Wilson

Brian Wilson

Video thumbnail for Michael Manring demonstrates the Zon Hyperbass by Double Bass HQ

Michael Manring demonstrates the Zon Hyperbass

Double Bass HQ

Double Bass HQ

Video thumbnail for Franz Cardone - Dub step & Zon Hyperbass by Shigaraki music

Franz Cardone - Dub step & Zon Hyperbass

Shigaraki music

Shigaraki music

Video thumbnail for Franz Cardone playing a Zon Hyperbass on "Teen Town" by Jaco Pastorius by Shigaraki music

Franz Cardone playing a Zon Hyperbass on "Teen Town" by Jaco Pastorius

Shigaraki music

Shigaraki music

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Owners express excitement and anticipation for the Hyperbass, with a willingness to wait over 12 months for custom orders, despite known delays.

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  • Owners find the detuners fun and are slowly learning to incorporate them into songs, highlighting the learning curve associated with the Hyperbass's unique capabilities.

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  • Owners describe the Hyperbass's sound as "unmistakable," emphasizing its unique tonal qualities that attract fans of Michael Manring and Jesus Rico Perez.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Hyperbass is associated with advanced techniques and unique tunings, making it ideal for experimental and progressive music styles.

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Value and pricing

  • Potential buyers note the Hyperbass as a wishlist item, suggesting it holds significant aspirational value among bass enthusiasts.

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  • Custom modifications, such as retrofitting detuners, can significantly increase the instrument's cost, underlining its high-value market.

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Build quality

  • The Hyperbass is seen as a "unicorn" in the used market, indicating its rarity and desirability among collectors and musicians.

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  • The neck is made of a phenowood composite material, which does not include a truss rod, contributing to its distinct construction and feel.

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Features and functionality

  • The Hyperbass features 3-4 Hipshot Xtender detuners, allowing for dynamic tuning changes in real-time, as demonstrated in Michael Manring's performances.

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  • The Hyperbass has a 3-octave fretboard, which increases the range and complexity available to players, though it might be challenging to intonate above the 24th fret.

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  • The Hyperbass can be used with a pitch shift pedal as an alternative to the detunable bridge for dynamic tuning changes.

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Comparisons

  • Its fretless tone is likened to the Pedulla Buzz, noted for a sweet, rich sound distinct from typical fretted basses.

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  • The Hyperbass is compared to high-end models like the Fodera Monarch 5, indicating its status among premium bass guitars.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Retrofitting a 5-string Hyperbass with detuners can be custom-made for $10,000, highlighting the complexity and cost of such modifications.

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Critic Reviews

Michael Manring’s creation of his signature Zon Hyperbass | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Michael Manring's Zon Hyperbass is a groundbreaking instrument, boasting an impressive three-octave fretless fingerboard and unparalleled tuning flexibility. While its custom hardware and electronics can lead to high costs, the instrument's ability to produce an expansive range of sounds makes it a unique asset for innovative musicians. Manring's partnership with Joe Zon highlights a commitment to creativity, allowing players to explore new sonic territories. However, the complexity of its features may overwhelm those not ready to embrace its full potential. Ultimately, the Hyperbass stands as a testament to musical experimentation and engineering excellence, appealing to adventurous bassists willing to invest in their sound.

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Artist usage

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See how Michael Manring uses Zon Hyperbass

Michael Manring

Bassist, Music Producer

Attention Deficit

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Verified via reverb.com

In a video performance, Michael Manring is seen playing the Zon Hyperbass, as featured on Reverb.com.

See how Matt Malley uses Zon Hyperbass

Matt Malley

Bassist, Composer

Counting Crows

...
Verified via Photo

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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