What body wood is used for the LA Select Bass?

The guitar is constructed with an ash body. This wood is chosen for its balanced sound and a slight midrange scoop, which is favourable for rock and metal tones.

What are the benefits of a roasted maple neck?

Roasted maple undergoes a thermal treatment that removes moisture, resulting in improved tuning stability and a more rounded, resonant sound. It also provides a distinct aesthetic compared to standard maple.

What genres is this bass guitar best suited for?

Due to its pickup configuration and ash body, it is ideal for Rock, Metal, Punk, and Hardcore. The sound character is punchy and handles high-gain environments well.

What type of pickup is installed on the LA Select?

It features a PB Split Humbucker. This type of pickup is designed to reduce electrical interference (hum) while providing a thick, powerful bass tone.

What is the neck profile of this instrument?

The bass features a comfortable 'C' shape neck. This profile is widely regarded as an industry standard that suits most playing styles and hand sizes.

Does the LA Select come with an amplifier?

Yes, this specific pack is bundled with an amplifier and essential accessories. This makes it a comprehensive 'all-in-one' solution for new players.

Is the LA Select bass heavy?

No, it features a lightweight design. This is intended to prevent fatigue during long performances or practice sessions.

What kind of bridge does the LA Select use?

It uses a single saddle bridge system. This hardware allows for high adjustability, making it easier for the user to set their preferred string action and intonation.

How does the LA Select compare to the Gear4Music Chicago bass?

The LA Select typically features upgraded tonewoods like ash and roasted maple. The Chicago models often use different body shapes and pickup configurations, such as J-style pickups.

Can I play lead lines on this bass?

Yes, the single saddle bridge system and PB humbucker provide enough articulation for lead lines and complex melodies. The ash body helps maintain clarity across the frequency range.

Is this bass suitable for professional touring?

While it is an entry-level instrument, its roasted maple neck provides the stability required for live use. However, it is primarily designed as a high-value option for students and intermediate players.

What is the typical price for the LA Select Bass pack?

The pack is generally available in the region of £190. This price includes the bass guitar, amplifier, and necessary accessories like a cable.

Gear article

Gear4Music LA Select Bass Guitar + Amp Pack (Denim Burst)

The Gear4Music LA Select Bass Guitar is a four-string electric bass featuring an ash body and a roasted maple neck, designed primarily for rock and metal genres. It is typically sold as part of an entry-level starter pack including an amplifier and accessories, offering a cost-effective solution for students and hobbyists.

See live prices

Overview and Construction

The Gear4Music LA Select Bass Guitar is a solid-body instrument built with an ash body, finished in a distinctive Denim Burst. A notable feature for an instrument at this price point is the roasted maple neck and fretboard. Roasting the maple removes moisture and impurities from the wood, which significantly improves tuning stability and provides a more rounded tonal character. The neck uses a 'C' profile, which is a standard ergonomic shape intended to provide comfort for various hand sizes and playing styles, including long practice sessions.

Electronics and Sound

This bass is equipped with a single PB-style split humbucking pickup. This configuration is known for its hum-cancelling properties and punchy output. Because ash naturally provides a balanced sound with a gentle scoop in the midrange frequencies, the instrument is particularly well-suited for high-energy genres such as Rock, Metal, Punk, and Hardcore. The electronics are designed to deliver clarity for both power chords and articulate lead lines.

Gear4Music Chicago Bass Guitar Trans Red Burst 15W Bass Amp & Accessory Pack

Hardware and Playability

The LA Select utilises a single saddle bridge system. This design allows for precise intonation and string height adjustments, enabling players to customise their setup to their personal preference. The body is designed to be lightweight, a critical factor for younger players or those performing for extended periods on stage. The inclusion of a complete accessory pack, which typically features a 15W amplifier, ensures that the user has all the necessary equipment to begin playing immediately.

Market Comparison

Within the Gear4Music ecosystem, the LA Select sits alongside other entry-level models like the Chicago Bass series or the VISIONSTRING packs. However, the LA Select distinguishes itself through its upgraded materials, specifically the ash body and roasted maple neck. While it does not feature the premium components found in professional instruments like the Fender Player II series or the American Professional II Jazz Bass, it offers a similar silhouette and functional utility for a fraction of the cost, making it a competitive choice for beginners.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What body wood is used for the LA Select Bass?: The guitar is constructed with an ash body. This wood is chosen for its balanced sound and a slight midrange scoop, which is favourable for rock and metal tones.
What are the benefits of a roasted maple neck?: Roasted maple undergoes a thermal treatment that removes moisture, resulting in improved tuning stability and a more rounded, resonant sound. It also provides a distinct aesthetic compared to standard maple.
What genres is this bass guitar best suited for?: Due to its pickup configuration and ash body, it is ideal for Rock, Metal, Punk, and Hardcore. The sound character is punchy and handles high-gain environments well.
What type of pickup is installed on the LA Select?: It features a PB Split Humbucker. This type of pickup is designed to reduce electrical interference (hum) while providing a thick, powerful bass tone.
What is the neck profile of this instrument?: The bass features a comfortable 'C' shape neck. This profile is widely regarded as an industry standard that suits most playing styles and hand sizes.
Does the LA Select come with an amplifier?: Yes, this specific pack is bundled with an amplifier and essential accessories. This makes it a comprehensive 'all-in-one' solution for new players.
Is the LA Select bass heavy?: No, it features a lightweight design. This is intended to prevent fatigue during long performances or practice sessions.
What kind of bridge does the LA Select use?: It uses a single saddle bridge system. This hardware allows for high adjustability, making it easier for the user to set their preferred string action and intonation.
How does the LA Select compare to the Gear4Music Chicago bass?: The LA Select typically features upgraded tonewoods like ash and roasted maple. The Chicago models often use different body shapes and pickup configurations, such as J-style pickups.
Can I play lead lines on this bass?: Yes, the single saddle bridge system and PB humbucker provide enough articulation for lead lines and complex melodies. The ash body helps maintain clarity across the frequency range.
Is this bass suitable for professional touring?: While it is an entry-level instrument, its roasted maple neck provides the stability required for live use. However, it is primarily designed as a high-value option for students and intermediate players.
What is the typical price for the LA Select Bass pack?: The pack is generally available in the region of £190. This price includes the bass guitar, amplifier, and necessary accessories like a cable.