Which Sadowsky Would You Recommend?

[Sean Gill]

Hey everyone, I've been on the hunt for a sadowsky bass on reverb and have come across multiple types and would appreciate any kind of advice on which way to go. I want to go with the metroline with HC pickups but with variations like ash vs red alder, maple vs rosewood, LE versions vs Will Lee versions, I'm finding myself a little lost.

Of course, if I got them in my hands I imagine it would be quite simple to choose but unfortunately that isn't an option. Anyway, I'd love to hear any takes on what is the best move.

Thank you so much fam!

 

[mmbongo]

Check with Jason at fretnation.com

 

[Zooberwerx]

What's your budget?

Riis

 

[Sean Gill]

What's your budget?

Riis

I'd like to spend anywhere between $2000-$3000 but the absolute top of my budget is $3400 which would include the shipping fees and internet sales tax.

 

[Zooberwerx]

I'd like to spend anywhere between $2000-$3000 but the absolute top of my budget is $3400 which would include the shipping fees and internet sales tax.

I wouldn't overthink this. I'd go with a used Metro (MIJ) J/J if available and pocket the savings.

Riis

 

[chris_b]

Look for a good used Japanese Metro. They are fantastic basses for a great price.

 

[mmbongo]

I'd like to spend anywhere between $2000-$3000 but the absolute top of my budget is $3400 which would include the shipping fees and internet sales tax.

With that budget I'd strongly consider a Roscoe Classic. You'll get an amazing bass that is handmade, and made in the USA by a small team of specialized craftsmen.

 

[R&B]

MIJ Metro or TYO used. My absolute fave is a TYO Teppei model (matching headstock, visually looks like a Fender due to hidden controls, single coil pickups). But it's only about 15% better than my other Sadowsky jazz - a Metro MV-4 , natural ash, maple fretboard, HC pickups. You should be able to get a righteous bass for right around $2K.

 

[alembicbones]

Another vote for a MIJ Metro. I had one when they first came out it was a great bass. One note, I found that I prefer single coils on a jazz influenced bass. I came down to deciding between the Metro and a Fender Marcus Miller 5 string. I kept the MM due to the single coils. When I ordered my NYC Sadowsky back in 2015, I definitely went with the single coils. I just think it makes for a more organic sounding bass. This is just my opinion though and your tastes might be drawn to the hum cancelling pickups.

Best of luck on your search.

Bones