What is the scale length of the Gear4Music Seattle Bass?

The Seattle bass features a 30-inch scale length. This is significantly shorter than the standard 34-inch scale, making it easier to reach frets.

What pickups are installed on this model?

It uses a PJ pickup configuration. This consists of one split-coil pickup in the middle position and one single-coil pickup at the bridge.

What materials are used for the neck and fretboard?

The neck is made of maple, while the fretboard is constructed from poplar laminate. This combination provides a durable and stable playing surface.

Is the amplifier included in this pack suitable for gigging?

The included 15W amp is designed for home practice. It lacks the power and projection required for live performances with a full band.

Who is this bass guitar best suited for?

It is ideal for beginners, younger players, or adults with a shorter reach. The offset body and short scale make it more ergonomic for smaller frames.

What kind of tones can the Seattle Bass produce?

It is described as producing grunge and surf-style tones. The PJ pickups offer a mix of thick low-end and bright, articulate highs.

Does the pack include a cable to connect the bass to the amp?

Yes, the bundle includes a standard instrument lead. It also comes with a gig bag for storage and transport.

What body shape does the Seattle model feature?

It features an offset 'jazz style' body. This design is intended to be comfortable when played both seated and standing.

What strings should be used for replacements?

You should use short-scale specific strings, such as the Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Short Scale set (45-105). Standard long-scale strings will be too long for this instrument.

How does this compare to the Gear4Music Chicago Short Scale?

The Seattle features an offset body and PJ pickups, whereas the Chicago model has a different body shape. Both share the 30-inch scale length suitable for beginners.

What is the typical price for this amp pack?

The typical price range for this specific bundle is approximately £160. This makes it a cost-effective option for a complete starter kit.

Is the finish on the Seattle bass durable?

The bass features a classic black finish. Like most entry-level instruments, it is designed to withstand regular practice, though care should be taken to avoid scratches.

Gear article

Gear4Music Seattle Short Scale Bass Guitar + 15W Amp Pack

The Gear4Music Seattle Short Scale Bass Guitar is a compact electric instrument featuring an offset 'jazz style' body and a 30-inch scale length. Bundled with a 15W practice amplifier and essential accessories, it is designed to provide grunge and surf-inspired tones for beginners and players with smaller hands.

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Overview

The Gear4Music Seattle Short Scale Bass Guitar is a contemporary addition to the retailer's proprietary instrument range. Positioned as an entry-level solution, it is specifically designed to accommodate players who find standard 34-inch long-scale basses cumbersome. The instrument features a classic black finish and is constructed with a maple neck and a poplar laminate fretboard. Its offset body design is reminiscent of vintage 'jazz' instruments, providing both ergonomic comfort and a distinctive aesthetic associated with alternative music genres.

Electronics and Hardware

The Seattle bass utilizes a versatile 'PJ' pickup configuration. This setup includes a split-coil humbucking pickup in the middle position and a single-coil pickup at the bridge. This combination allows for a wide palette of sounds, ranging from the thick, punchy lows of a precision-style bass to the brighter, more articulate trebles of a jazz-style instrument. The hardware is designed for reliability at a budget-friendly price point, ensuring stable tuning and intonation for students.

Gear4Music Seattle Short Scale Bass Guitar by Gear4music Black

Included 15W Amp Pack

This specific bundle is marketed as a 'starter pack', including everything a novice player requires to begin practicing immediately. The centrepiece of the accessory kit is a 15W bass amplifier, which provides sufficient volume for home practice without the footprint of a larger cabinet. In addition to the guitar and amplifier, the pack typically includes a gig bag for transport, a jack-to-jack lead for connectivity, and other essential maintenance or performance tools.

Sound Character

Manufacturer descriptions highlight the Seattle model as being 'packed with grunge and surf tones'. Due to the shorter scale length, the strings have slightly less tension than a standard bass, which can result in a 'fat' or 'thumpy' fundamental tone with less aggressive overtones. When using the middle split-coil, the sound is warm and resonant, while the bridge single-coil adds clarity and bite suitable for surf rock and alternative styles.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Gear4Music ecosystem, the Seattle model sits alongside the 'LA' and 'Chicago' short-scale models, offering a different body shape and pickup configuration compared to those P-style or modern designs. When compared to premium alternatives such as the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short Scale or the Rickenbacker 4030S, the Seattle is significantly more affordable, retailing at approximately £160. While it lacks the high-end hardware of a Rickenbacker, it provides a functional and accessible entry point for beginners.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the scale length of the Gear4Music Seattle Bass?: The Seattle bass features a 30-inch scale length. This is significantly shorter than the standard 34-inch scale, making it easier to reach frets.
What pickups are installed on this model?: It uses a PJ pickup configuration. This consists of one split-coil pickup in the middle position and one single-coil pickup at the bridge.
What materials are used for the neck and fretboard?: The neck is made of maple, while the fretboard is constructed from poplar laminate. This combination provides a durable and stable playing surface.
Is the amplifier included in this pack suitable for gigging?: The included 15W amp is designed for home practice. It lacks the power and projection required for live performances with a full band.
Who is this bass guitar best suited for?: It is ideal for beginners, younger players, or adults with a shorter reach. The offset body and short scale make it more ergonomic for smaller frames.
What kind of tones can the Seattle Bass produce?: It is described as producing grunge and surf-style tones. The PJ pickups offer a mix of thick low-end and bright, articulate highs.
Does the pack include a cable to connect the bass to the amp?: Yes, the bundle includes a standard instrument lead. It also comes with a gig bag for storage and transport.
What body shape does the Seattle model feature?: It features an offset 'jazz style' body. This design is intended to be comfortable when played both seated and standing.
What strings should be used for replacements?: You should use short-scale specific strings, such as the Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Short Scale set (45-105). Standard long-scale strings will be too long for this instrument.
How does this compare to the Gear4Music Chicago Short Scale?: The Seattle features an offset body and PJ pickups, whereas the Chicago model has a different body shape. Both share the 30-inch scale length suitable for beginners.
What is the typical price for this amp pack?: The typical price range for this specific bundle is approximately £160. This makes it a cost-effective option for a complete starter kit.
Is the finish on the Seattle bass durable?: The bass features a classic black finish. Like most entry-level instruments, it is designed to withstand regular practice, though care should be taken to avoid scratches.