A True Custom Bass Guitar
9 Apr
A custom bass guitar is not just an instrument. It is an extension and expression of the musician who plays it. Sure, there are lots of places you can buy a custom bass. Each company that builds them will exceed in at least one aspect. Finding the right company is extremely important. You’ve got things to think through before you decide on your bass builder. Look at all aspects of your instrument before making this crucial decision.
The first thing to consider is curb appeal. This is a term used to express how aesthetically appealing something is. If you think a bass is ugly you probably will not appreciate other aspects of it as much as if you had to pick your jaw up off the floor every time you looked at it. One noticed fault leads to others, and we judge with the eyes first. But if you like how your instrument looks, you’ll feel good playing it. There are many things to consider when it comes to curb appeal, such as countless woods, finishes, and hardware to choose from. This is why having an artisan with decades of experience and understanding of woods, electronics, setups, and all other aspects of the building process is so important. One decision will affect others, so it is crucial that your builder knows all the details.
Secondly, think about the action of the instrument. There is nothing worse that a gorgeous bass that is a pain to play. I am going to pass on all the relationship analogies to better paint my point. You know where I’m coming from. When you hire a builder, it is imperative that he is a technically competent bass player. How can someone who doesn’t play the instrument understand the action you’re looking for? So many “custom” bass guitars companies are nothing more than a small production line run by people that have no skill playing the instrument. A Rybski bass is not intended to be wall art. It is designed and built by a skilled bass player, for skilled bass players. The moment your fingers begin to play a Rybski you will enter into a long and growing relationship with it just like other believers.

Thirdly, consider the electronics. How can anyone claim that a bass is “custom” when it’s pickups are ordered from a supplier? It just blows my mind. Custom instruments require custom electronics. I will spare you all the technical jargon and cut to the common sense: There is nothing custom about standardized, stock electronics. The pairing of playing styles, woods, and electronics is something that a true luthier takes great pride in. There are scant few builders in the world that are not only able to grasp, but excel at all areas of instrument building.
There are still a few builders like Rybski that make truly custom basses. A Rybski bass is a perfect example of what bass players are looking for when they want a custom bass. Rybski is a one man shop with in house custom electronics. Timeless designs and eye popping finishes aside, Rybski is most known by musicians around the world for their playability. Good luck in your search for your custom bass guitar.
If you have ever wondered what Custom Bass Guitars would be like if they were built by the hands of a true luthier? Check out truly Custom 5 String Bass Guitars and get a free estimate on the custom bass guitar of your dreams.
