What is the body material of the Yamaha BB 235?

The Yamaha BB 235 is constructed with a solid alder body. This wood is chosen for its well-balanced sound, providing a reliable foundation for the instrument's tonal output.

What type of pickups does the BB 235 use?

It is equipped with Yamaha Custom V3 pickups. These are designed to deliver a versatile performance with a range of dynamics that can be tailored via the onboard controls.

How does the neck construction contribute to playability?

The bass features a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard. This combination is designed to provide smooth and comfortable playability while adding brightness to the overall tone.

Is the Yamaha BB 235 an active or passive bass?

The BB 235 is a passive bass guitar. It uses a simple control layout of two volume knobs and one master tone knob to shape the sound without the need for a battery.

What hardware is used for string stability?

The instrument features a vintage-style bridge and a urea nut. These components work together to enhance string stability and maintain resonance across all five strings.

Does this model have a specific type of tuner?

Yes, it is fitted with lightweight tuners. These are designed to improve the balance of the bass and ensure the instrument does not become top-heavy during play.

What is the primary difference between the BB 235 and the BB 234?

The BB 235 is a 5-string model, whereas the BB 234 is the 4-string version. The BB 235 offers an increased tonal and harmonic range, specifically providing a lower 'B' string.

What tonal qualities can be expected from this bass?

Users can expect a deep, booming low end along with a clear mid-range and articulate highs. The combination of alder, maple, and rosewood helps produce a sparkling, bright palette.

How much does the Yamaha BB 235 typically cost?

The typical price range for this model in the UK is approximately GBP 429. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.

What finish options are available for this specific model?

This specific article describes the Vintage White finish. However, the BB 235 is also known to be available in other colours, such as Raspberry Red.

How does the BB 235 compare to the Yamaha TRBX series?

The BB 235 features a more traditional body shape and passive electronics. Models like the TRBX505 or TRBX605FM often feature active electronics and more modern, contoured body designs.

Is the BB 235 suitable for professional use?

While it is positioned as an entry-to-mid-level instrument, its solid alder construction, custom pickups, and stable hardware make it a reliable choice for both practice and live performance.

Gear article

Yamaha BB 235 5-String Bass Guitar

The Yamaha BB 235 is a versatile 5-string electric bass guitar designed to provide an extended tonal range and professional features at an accessible price point. Part of Yamaha's long-running Broadbass series, it features a classic alder body and a custom V3 pickup configuration suited for a wide variety of musical genres.

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Background and Design

The Yamaha BB 235 represents the entry point for the modern iteration of the Broadbass (BB) series, a line that has been a staple in the Yamaha catalogue for decades. This specific model provides the low-B string functionality required for contemporary styles, expanding the harmonic range beyond that of a standard 4-string bass. The body is constructed from solid alder, a choice known for providing a balanced foundation for bass frequencies.

In terms of aesthetics, the Vintage White finish adheres to the classic heritage of the series. The construction features a bolt-on maple neck paired with a rosewood fingerboard, a combination that balances durability with a smooth playing surface.

Technical Specifications

The BB 235 is engineered with specific hardware choices to ensure stability and tone:

Pickups: Equipped with two custom V3 pickups. These are ceramic magnets designed to offer a clear, articulate sound.
Hardware: The bass features lightweight tuners that improve the balance of the instrument, preventing 'neck dive.' It also includes a vintage-style bridge and a urea nut for consistent string resonance.
Controls: The electronics are passive, consisting of two volume knobs (one for each pickup) and a master tone control, allowing for straightforward tonal blending.

Tonal Character

The sonic profile of the Yamaha BB 235 is characterised by a 'deep booming low end' and a 'clear and bright mid-range.' The alder body provides a neutral, well-rounded resonance, while the maple neck and rosewood fingerboard add a 'sparkling brightness' to the higher frequencies. Because of the V3 pickups, the bass produces crisp highs that remain articulate even when playing complex lines on the low-B string.

Suitability and Applications

This instrument is particularly suited for bassists who require the extended range of a 5-string without the complexity of active electronics. Its versatile pickup configuration makes it appropriate for session work, rock, blues, and jazz. The lightweight hardware and comfortable neck profile also make it a strong candidate for students or gigging musicians who require a reliable, well-balanced workhorse.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Yamaha range, the BB 235 is a passive alternative to the TRBX series, such as the TRBX505 or TRBX605FM, which feature active preamps and more modern body shapes. Compared to the higher-tier BB 735A, the 235 lacks the active/passive toggle and the 3-ply laminated body construction, offering a more traditional and affordable experience. Against competitors like the Schecter Model-T 5 or the Cort C5 Plus OVMH, the BB 235 stands out for its classic 'heritage' design and straightforward passive control layout.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body material of the Yamaha BB 235?: The Yamaha BB 235 is constructed with a solid alder body. This wood is chosen for its well-balanced sound, providing a reliable foundation for the instrument's tonal output.
What type of pickups does the BB 235 use?: It is equipped with Yamaha Custom V3 pickups. These are designed to deliver a versatile performance with a range of dynamics that can be tailored via the onboard controls.
How does the neck construction contribute to playability?: The bass features a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard. This combination is designed to provide smooth and comfortable playability while adding brightness to the overall tone.
Is the Yamaha BB 235 an active or passive bass?: The BB 235 is a passive bass guitar. It uses a simple control layout of two volume knobs and one master tone knob to shape the sound without the need for a battery.
What hardware is used for string stability?: The instrument features a vintage-style bridge and a urea nut. These components work together to enhance string stability and maintain resonance across all five strings.
Does this model have a specific type of tuner?: Yes, it is fitted with lightweight tuners. These are designed to improve the balance of the bass and ensure the instrument does not become top-heavy during play.
What is the primary difference between the BB 235 and the BB 234?: The BB 235 is a 5-string model, whereas the BB 234 is the 4-string version. The BB 235 offers an increased tonal and harmonic range, specifically providing a lower 'B' string.
What tonal qualities can be expected from this bass?: Users can expect a deep, booming low end along with a clear mid-range and articulate highs. The combination of alder, maple, and rosewood helps produce a sparkling, bright palette.
How much does the Yamaha BB 235 typically cost?: The typical price range for this model in the UK is approximately GBP 429. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.
What finish options are available for this specific model?: This specific article describes the Vintage White finish. However, the BB 235 is also known to be available in other colours, such as Raspberry Red.
How does the BB 235 compare to the Yamaha TRBX series?: The BB 235 features a more traditional body shape and passive electronics. Models like the TRBX505 or TRBX605FM often feature active electronics and more modern, contoured body designs.
Is the BB 235 suitable for professional use?: While it is positioned as an entry-to-mid-level instrument, its solid alder construction, custom pickups, and stable hardware make it a reliable choice for both practice and live performance.