Winton White

I found the body to be too light that eve with the Gotoh Res-o-lite tuners it comes with, there was still some neck dive. But I’m sensitive to instrument balance so I had to sell it. LOVED the neck feel and also the Lollar pups. I’m glad I gave it some mileage before letting it go.

Carvin’s modern hommage to the classic 70s jazz bass. This discontinued model (and brand) with all its specs was a steal for all that you get. Brand new it was about $1500. Buying it used (which I did) for $650 was almost like doing crime...but it felt good! The first time I picked this instrument up and set up my left hand against the neck, I knew this was gonna be a good one. Thin neck with 19mm spacing and satin finish on the back automatically made me feel like I was gliding on that thing. Pick-up placement is like a 70s jazz bass with the rear pup near the bridge. Aside from that, every SB4000/SB5000 is different so it’s hard to generalize. But my SB5000 has very bright but BIG sound. Volume is not an issue with the Carvin 18v active pups and electronics. It’s a tad bright sometimes depending on the strings you use and how much treble you kick up. But I usually bring the treble down a little under where it’s flat. Many tonal variation, even active/passive switch, super comfy neck and balanced low and high notes makes this axe a wonder to play. It makes me curious to try the now Kiesel (formerly Carvin) basses.