Charvel San Dimas ProMod IV - Totally Bodacious Bass or Mega Bummer? - LowEndLobster Review

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  • čas přidán 15. 05. 2021
  • Looking to snag one of these basses? Use my Reverb affiliate link!- reverb.grsm.io/lowendlobster
    Hey everyone! Today we're FINALLY reviewing the Charvel San Dimas ProMod IV bass, the instrument that took the bass world by storm. Featuring a competitive $899 price tag and a packed spec-sheet, does this bright green machine live up to the hype? Let's find out!
    If you're curious, the nail polish I'm wearing is "Mutagen" by ILNP, manicure done by my lovely girlfriend- / ladyofthelacquer
    Unboxing and First Impressions: • Charvel San Dimas IV U...
    Shielding/Grounding Guide for San Dimas Bass (and others): • Charvel San Dimas ProM...
    Stock Preamp Deep Dive: • Charvel San Dimas ProM...
    Darkglass Preamp Swap: • Charvel San Dimas Prea...
    This bass and all my other basses with rounds are strung with MJC Ironworks Nickel Plated Stainless Steel 45-105(125) unless otherwise noted. Check them out at www.mjcironworks.com
    Info on my signal chain, setup and more: • FAQ: My Signal Chain, ...
    Discord: discord.gg/dzrFMzD
    Facebook: LowEndLobster
    Twitter: @LowEndLobster
    Instagram: LowEndLobster
    Reverb Shop: reverb.com/shop/lowendlobster
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Komentáře • 334

  • @jsorensen
    @jsorensen Před 3 lety +56

    This video is an example of why Lobster is my fave reviewer, other reviewers are calling the preamp simply "hot", not detailing how the San Dimas really sounds. Thanks!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +2

      Thank you :)

    • @Insoma
      @Insoma Před 3 lety +4

      I get what you are saying, but for me, I can say I can tell the difference between a hot pickup and a grounding issue.
      I adressed, that compared to many other of my basses, I had to turn the gain a bit down, or it will overdrive my DI. Or lower the Pickups a bit. But the "touching the string = cancel the noise" is something which I would have detected on my bass right away and what can I say...mine hasn't this issue, so I couldn't adress it. Time and more sold basses will tell, if my dear Lobster was very unlucky or I am very lucky to get a grounded one.

    • @johngilbert1634
      @johngilbert1634 Před 2 lety

      He got a bad one. Simple as that.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety +8

      Got two of em with the same issue! Bully's was similar.

    • @rayomayor7
      @rayomayor7 Před rokem +1

      I am so glad I watched this, I was about to order this online blind based on other reviews online. Thanks Mr 🦞 hand.

  • @MikeWest01
    @MikeWest01 Před rokem +12

    After making a few mods, I love this thing. Took out the pre-amp all together and set her up at all passive. Just Volume, Blend, Tone. Threw a Hipshot Drop-D tuner on it, all set. Bonus: I now have 2 knobs that do nothing, so I can pretend they are anything.

    • @nicorepetto5781
      @nicorepetto5781 Před 5 měsíci

      I would love to do this with mine but don't have the skills to do it. Any suggestions?

  • @twiglurid666
    @twiglurid666 Před 3 lety +14

    Before I even finish watching this review lol Shout out to that Bill & Ted intro 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 “San Dimas High School Football Rules!!!”

  • @TheGAMEGod_YT
    @TheGAMEGod_YT Před 3 lety +14

    Bill and Lobster’s excellent adventure! Let’s goooooo

  • @tonycarel1785
    @tonycarel1785 Před 3 lety +2

    What a awesome review!! Love this channel! So funny too

  • @timmyleesixxx
    @timmyleesixxx Před 3 lety +2

    I appreciate the review immensely. I ordered one of these basses today. Lobster’s review pointed out all of the plentiful positive features and benefits surrounding that unimpressive preamp. The explanation of the price point won me over. I can mod or play it in passive mode happily. Thank you Lobster!

  • @chriswenkle2635
    @chriswenkle2635 Před 3 lety +1

    Great video Lobster. I love the "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" take at the beginning..:>). Glad you brought to light the QC issue with this bass. It's pretty common with a number of over-seas manufacturing facilities. Sometimes big companies rely too heavily on name recognition without the necessary oversite. I agree that no one should every have to be in the position to deal with the kinds of issues you outlined here. However, yes to Audere! I've used those preamps for years and love them. I look forward to the upgrade video. Cheers!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Chris! Glad you liked it :) this was a fun video to shoot, but the bass is a bummer for sure. Hopefully we can get the noise under control and do a quick revisit before the audere swap (which will also greatly benefit from the shielding I'm going to be doing- vid for that coming!)

  • @jonmatthews4254
    @jonmatthews4254 Před 3 lety +1

    Love the honest reviews.

  • @Bongo_G_La_Costa
    @Bongo_G_La_Costa Před 3 lety +1

    Once again, a great review from you Lobster😁👍🏾 and I love the green nail polish💅🏾💚, looks fierce.😉👌🏾💚🎸🦞

  • @teleespantoso
    @teleespantoso Před 3 lety +2

    Great energy today xD
    LOL - matching claws!
    It's a great review, which highlights this preamp madness.
    The bass would be perfectly cool with just 1x tone and two volume knobs.
    Interesting forthcoming mod now!
    Ownage!

  • @harryh5620
    @harryh5620 Před 3 lety +2

    Wow... an actual honest review. Thanks!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +2

      Thanks Harry! That's what we do here :). I do my best to represent the consumer experience and discuss both the objective and subjective sides of the instruments I review

  • @jonsidell3338
    @jonsidell3338 Před 3 lety +30

    These would fly off the shelf it they were passive only and $50 cheaper for it.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +3

      100% Agreed, better controls would make this a much better bass

    • @6832jack
      @6832jack Před 3 lety +1

      I've been looking for exactly this minus the preamp/20 active control knobs. Nobody got time to mess with all that.

  • @chulastron
    @chulastron Před 3 lety +2

    Man that thing looks awesome!!! 💚💚💚

  • @spencerwells9343
    @spencerwells9343 Před 3 lety +6

    I bought the 5 string version of this bass and it’s amazing, I’m glad I didn’t get any of the QC issues you did! The Area J pickups really impressed me, and I like the preamp, especially the mid frequency. Try to get your hands on one and see how it differs from the 4 string version.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Spencer! The pickup choice on the 5 is interesting. I LOVE the Area J's, I think they're superior to the "Model" series in regards to authenticity. I have em in both of my modded Sire Jazz basses. Definitely hope to check out the 5 at some point

  • @misterbreakit2006
    @misterbreakit2006 Před 3 lety +1

    Yooo Duuuude! Bodacious nail job. Matches the bass :D Hum enhancing pickups, it's the new thing!

  • @marciosouza8656
    @marciosouza8656 Před 3 lety +2

    Nice nails rsrs... This is the best review on the CZcams! Salutations from Brazil!!

  • @fjbolebruch
    @fjbolebruch Před 3 lety +2

    Much appreciated review of this bass. I’ve been on the market for an active/passive “Swiss army” 5 string, when these were released I thought it’d be perfect. But I don’t want to drop $1,000 on something that I’d have to drop a few more hundred into fixing issues. Thanks for doing the leg work!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Forrest! Yeah if you're looking for something super flexible out of the box, I think "Run Forrest! Run!" is the best advice here ;P.... I'll show myself out
      IMO in terms of "Swiss Army" basses, check out the Sire M5. About 2/3rds the price of this, loads of flexibility and very solid build! Many basses will try and do it all, but I think the M5 comes the closest to success for basses in the $600 price point.

  • @RobotRaygunn
    @RobotRaygunn Před 12 dny

    Love your videos Lobster! I bought the 5 string in platinum pearl about 6 months ago and I absolutely love it!! No buzzing whatsoever thankfully. The neck is fantastic - super comfortable and the satin finish *chef's kiss*

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 12 dny

      Glad to hear it! I saw new finishes were released (looking GREAT), and it sounds like they got the electronics sorted

    • @RobotRaygunn
      @RobotRaygunn Před 12 dny

      @@LowEndLobster Yeah it seems like they got it under control! Thanks for the reply mate, keep up the great work!!

  • @paulcornwell5581
    @paulcornwell5581 Před 20 hodinami

    Great review. I love this bass. I'm thinking of getting it and replacing the preamp with a Darkglass Tone capsule

  • @callmethor6799
    @callmethor6799 Před rokem

    Ever since I discovered your channel I make sure to check if you have reviewed a bass I’m curious about. Love your review videos and this one is no different. Wondering if there will be a video on how to mod this one as a true passive setup like you mentioned like a vol/tone for pith pickups?

  • @campfiresedge9395
    @campfiresedge9395 Před 3 lety +1

    I still can’t thank you enough for your videos. I stopped playing for a few years, was uninspired. Then you did the Sterling mod videos. Got me back into it. Ended up getting a Ray 34. I am playing every single day. Hope I can meet you some day, I’d love to take you out to dinner.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks man! I know the feeling, I felt like that before I started the channel. I'm so happy that my videos helped inspire you to pick up the bass again! I'll be at NAMM if you wanna feed me ;P, seriously though thank you for the thought and the offer

  • @arnlmndza
    @arnlmndza Před 2 lety

    Great review, as always. Sir what do you think of the Jackson/Charvel 2B bass?

  • @monkeymindmatters
    @monkeymindmatters Před 3 lety +1

    Sweet nail polish!

  • @seanhendricks2714
    @seanhendricks2714 Před 3 lety +1

    Wonderful video as always, Lobster! I would love to see a video where you take a tribute series G&L L-2000/2500 and do the K-mod on it!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      That's a great idea. I've had my eye on the CLF L-2000 as well ;)

  • @Asmuk
    @Asmuk Před 4 měsíci

    What a piece of writing. I'm amazed.

  • @skinal74
    @skinal74 Před 3 lety +3

    I own this bass and fortunately it doesn’t have the grounding problem like yours does. I do agree that the the preamp/pickup combination is not a good match. It’s hard to find a good tone with the preamp engaged. If I can get this issue fixed, it will be a great bass.

  • @nigel900
    @nigel900 Před rokem +2

    Got to admit, that is a beautiful bass… and love the color. Seriously considering buying one in spite of the “preamp”. Great video, and appreciate the unbiased opinion. 👍🏻

    • @phipschi4255
      @phipschi4255 Před rokem

      have you purchased it yet?
      👀

    • @nigel900
      @nigel900 Před rokem

      Not yet. I’m restoring a vintage Ampeg B25B bass amp and made plans to buy when it’s finished.

  • @dm4728
    @dm4728 Před 3 lety +1

    Nice colour coordinated nail job

  • @LMCarneiro
    @LMCarneiro Před 2 lety +1

    11:47 Wrong knob. Who never? ;) Love the review. Lucid and detailed as ever, even to the nail polish color. Great channel.

  • @grizelda4526
    @grizelda4526 Před 3 lety +5

    Wow, that sounded pretty rough! Great review though. I’m kinda bummed. This was a bass I was really keen to try.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Griz! Don't worry, Friday we'll fix it and we'll have some preamp swap videos in the coming weeks :). She has good bones, just needs a heart to match!

  • @danadane2501
    @danadane2501 Před 2 lety +1

    Easily one of the best reviews on this bass . Ntm many others .

  • @chrisreed4174
    @chrisreed4174 Před 3 lety +3

    Played this bass at my local Guitar Center and did not have this grounding and noise issue, but its hard to tell in a GC. Will need to go back and test again. But this bass played and looked amazing.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Chris! It seems the QC is super inconsistent on these, the hum on this was worse than the first. I've seen some who have no issues but hate the preamp, and others who have returned the bass because of the noise.

  • @Charners
    @Charners Před 2 lety

    Doing some light browsing for comparison in the hunt for the elusive 12 inch radius bass necks. The Fender Player plus active is similar in price (give or take) . Expect the colours are not mad and differences in pickups/where they are etc.
    Reviewed your darkglass video and was impressed. I've tried one of these acoustically in store, just the neck socket was on way too tight and had cracked it all. Felt decent however 👌

  • @yingnanwang9304
    @yingnanwang9304 Před 3 lety +2

    I was choosing between this one and the G&L Tribute L2000. Now I am happy to go with G&L.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      I think you made a good choice, the G&L Tributes are excellent

  • @arc323is
    @arc323is Před 3 lety +9

    Lobster, despite the preamp / noise woes, this seems like a fundamentally great bass. If they had this thing sorted out with a passive tone I'd be all over it.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +4

      Agreed! The foundation of this instrument is super solid, just ruined by the atrocious wiring and the preamp

    • @monkeymindmatters
      @monkeymindmatters Před 3 lety

      Exactly.

    • @terranceeverhart4288
      @terranceeverhart4288 Před 5 dny

      It’s a great bass. Mine sounds amazing and zero noise with the preamp engaged.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 5 dny

      That's great! They updated this model to address the wiring stuff i believe

  • @handybunny
    @handybunny Před 8 měsíci

    I have one in blue... love it.

  • @embasset8931
    @embasset8931 Před 2 lety

    Mr Lobster, I really enjoy your videos can you do a review of the new fender player plus jazz bass v?

  • @jeffjones1143
    @jeffjones1143 Před 3 lety +4

    Eye Carumba!! That thing breathes fire! Talk about cutting through the mix. Good way to p. o. your guitar player, he he. I'd like to hear it with a better preamp. Nice touch with the nails too Low! I'm looking forward to your fix and you're right, it should be good right out of the box. Don't know about Fender recently, know what I mean?

  • @johndelong9230
    @johndelong9230 Před 3 lety +1

    You keep it honest, I'm sticking with passive myself. Question, if someone buys one do you get matching 💅 nail color. Nice touch!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks John! If my girlfriend has matches for more of my basses, you may be seeing more matching manis ;P

  • @enabledintergers9372
    @enabledintergers9372 Před rokem

    oh your so picky!! thats bass looks and sounds fabulous

  • @ericmoritz6899
    @ericmoritz6899 Před měsícem

    I was totally gonna buy this bass until I saw this vid. Thanks lobster! Dodged a bullet 😊

  • @trunks828
    @trunks828 Před 3 lety +12

    I feel a bass like that doesn’t need a pre amp. That is a bummer it looks so killer. Totally not worth 900 dollars.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Anthony!

    • @brianvillage5
      @brianvillage5 Před 2 lety

      I disagree, I just went from a fender PJ to one of these and it’s a far superior bass. It’s great with it without the active electronics.

  • @FoamSquatch
    @FoamSquatch Před 3 lety +4

    Aside from the cream colored pickup covers, I love the look of these. Its a shame the pre amp kinda screws the thing in stock from. Living for the color matched nail polish btw!!!

  • @GozhouCS
    @GozhouCS Před 3 lety +5

    Oh! That is a VERY unique preamp! Such natural noise, and that "differently expensive" tone colouring! What a smart idea to add a "fuzz feature" too! WOW!
    .....jokes aside... With the "bypassed" sound it's really great! Waiting for mods!
    As for the looks, it's very nice!

  • @alanmackenzie476
    @alanmackenzie476 Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you for your reviews on this bass. I eventually bought one in the full knowledge it may need to be fully shielded. I am glad to report, I have absolutely no problems with it whatsoever. QC issues at the fender plant perhaps?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety +1

      It sounds like they may have rectified the issue. I had two examples that were terrible, and Bully's 5 was no better. I will revisit the bass (a new example) for 2022!

    • @alanmackenzie476
      @alanmackenzie476 Před 2 lety

      @@LowEndLobster looking forward to it.

    • @Charners
      @Charners Před 2 lety +1

      Just got one brand new and earthing issues.
      Pre amp is utter shit and can't stand it. Going back sadly Monday

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for sharing! Bummer to hear that duds are still going around. I plan on revisiting this later in the year

  • @ibanezmnm
    @ibanezmnm Před rokem

    I just like that basses! ;)

  • @justinc246
    @justinc246 Před 3 lety +1

    That's a total bummer. I remember when I first saw this announced and thinking that's a great set of features on offer even at that fairly popular price point. The design, neck, body, etc look great. With good shielding, grounding, and maybe an Aguilar or even a Sadowsky pre this could be an amazing mod bass. But at this price point, so many other options are competing with good/solid QC that this is a tough recommend now

  • @patkincaid8061
    @patkincaid8061 Před 3 lety +2

    Three things, it would have been great if the 4 string would have had the jazz pickups option and also a passive version. Love the radioactive green fingernail polish too. 😁

  • @jaredmatthews9403
    @jaredmatthews9403 Před 3 lety +1

    Any chance I could bother you for the link to that wonderful shirt you're wearing? Great review btw.

  • @deathmetal0527
    @deathmetal0527 Před rokem

    Given that it’s a year down the line, has Fender addressed any of the QC issues with this bass? I’m super keen on picking one up

  • @ChrisHopkinsBass
    @ChrisHopkinsBass Před 3 lety +1

    I'm starting to realise that a good rule of thumb is that active preamps with eq controls are great with low to medium output pickups but useless with high output ones unless they're EMGs

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      That's the Stingray formula my dude! A G&L L1000 -ish control setup with this bass would be most excellent. I don't think any sort of boost is needed with those excellent sounding but hot pickups

  • @MrMeh57
    @MrMeh57 Před 3 lety +1

    I use an audere in my Jazz Bass, I personally think it's a pretty fun and powerful little preamp

  • @TheGurner1
    @TheGurner1 Před 2 lety

    I've just ordered one, was thinking of getting a bass pre pedal, like the Sans Amp, MXR etc and just play it passive, tone shape with the pedal ;-) (If the issue is present, and they didn't just put a better pre in there)

  • @PhullyNo1
    @PhullyNo1 Před 3 lety +2

    Hey lobster I bought this bass too. You do more mods than I ever have. Do you think there’s a way to add passive tone with the new preamp?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Great question! A passive tone can be added here with the existing preamp, however I don't think the Audere has one. I was honestly planning on installing the John East Uni preamp that made its way into my Sire P10 (and glad I put it there too!)

  • @BullyThaKidd
    @BullyThaKidd Před 3 lety +1

    Excellent

    • @BullyThaKidd
      @BullyThaKidd Před 3 lety +1

      U should throw an audere in there and let it shine a little bit.... Oh snap I spoke to soon... Noiiiiccceeeeee!!!!!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      :)

  • @CaneyBoniface
    @CaneyBoniface Před 3 lety +1

    I hope you do mod on Yamaha TRBX 305 or 505 and Jackson Spectra Series in the future

  • @spacedaddy5517
    @spacedaddy5517 Před rokem

    I like this bass. I never seen one before, imagine that. All you need now, is a golden jumpsuit.

  • @stushwartz
    @stushwartz Před 3 lety +4

    Beautiful bass. As you said shame about the preamp and the poor grounding/sheilding .
    Be interesting with a Darkglass Tone Capsule or Aguilar OBP3
    Great job again 👏 Stu

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Stu! You're not the only one saying Darkglass. Now I have this Audere slated for it... but the darkglass is a quick and dirty mod hahaha. I'll see what I can do ;P

  • @PorchBass
    @PorchBass Před 3 lety +1

    Your studio is a real stress test for shielding! I tried the five but it paled next to a cort A5 in the same shop.
    I did finally get an Ibanez ehb in sea foam which is a bit your fault.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks James! It really is, I have another video coming where we play Fender QC guy and fix the damn thing. I have no doubts that the Cort was waaaaaay better. EHB Powah!

  • @kevinlynch2248
    @kevinlynch2248 Před 3 lety +1

    That preamp is something special and is just about as noisy as that Sadowsky you did a demoed a while back. Great point about their being a missed opportunity here with this bass.

  • @iamLexxKelsey
    @iamLexxKelsey Před 3 lety +1

    Passive sounds pretty balanced when u slapped that thang 👌

  • @TH-bk5hj
    @TH-bk5hj Před 3 lety +2

    I like the colors. Similar to my Dave Ellefson Jackson. Body style

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks T H! This bass definitely has aesthetic appeal

  • @dr.riccardo3575
    @dr.riccardo3575 Před 3 lety +1

    @LowEndLobster hey I know you've probably gotten a lot of messages like this but I've got a project bass I'm working on and was wondering if you would like to get your hands on it and maybe add your own touches to it. The bass in question is a squire mini p bass with a fretless fingerboard conversion, bartolini pickups ant tapewound strings. The mods I'm currently doing are adding a höfner pickup close to the bridge, stacked tone/volume knob for each pickup, and a custom pickguard. Of course I'm not asking you to finish it but rather just seeing what you would think of the finished product.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      I very much appreciate you thinking of me, but I must decline as I simply do not have enough time to take on additional projects. Thank you for the offer though!

  • @brooksonly7337
    @brooksonly7337 Před 3 lety +1

    Lobster...old friend....its brooksie...trust me you will love the tony franklin! Waiting for your review impatiently! Remember a shout out to me when u review it! Please!

  • @michaelkeefer4293
    @michaelkeefer4293 Před 3 lety +8

    DId you really paint your nails to match the finish of the bass? That bass sounds really nice with the preamp bypassed, they should have just kept it passive.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +4

      I wish I could take credit for the manicure, I could never pull it off with such precision. Credit goes to my girlfriend for both matching the color and painting.

  • @StevenFines13147
    @StevenFines13147 Před 3 lety +3

    These are made in Fender's mexico factory, so I imagine that they are largely compatible with other fender parts.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +2

      Indeed, I'd totally rock this neck on my DIY P bass or any other fender style parts bass

  • @keithpasculli7465
    @keithpasculli7465 Před 3 lety +1

    I agree about the preamp; the tone was nice but the bass sounded semi distorted in almost every setting. I don't believe that the shielding or lack thereof would cause that much noise; sounds more like a grounding issue. Interested in seeing what you find when you investigate but I believe that a preamp swap to a more appropriately voiced pre and grounding repair will make this a pretty killer bass.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Keith! I agree, going to perform the repair and see if I can get the stock setup noise under control before swapping. Shooting that vid today, hopefully I'm successful! :)

  • @Insoma
    @Insoma Před 3 lety +9

    Oh that is so devastating. I am at the lucky end it seems with no grounding issues, as shown in my Review :(

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +4

      It's such a shame, this is my second one as well and the noise on this is more severe than the first. The recipe was nearly perfect in concept, but an inconsistent chef yields inconsistent results as is the case here. I'm going to be making a video installing copper shielding tape, grounding the poles, and hopefully getting this thing quiet with the stock preamp before swapping.

  • @spacedaddy5517
    @spacedaddy5517 Před rokem

    I have an issue with a treble pot, there's static noise when adjusting the treble. Any idea, what this could be ?. Is this just normal sometimes ?.
    There's some type of issue with my Warwick jack, it makes noises. So I never bothered taking to a real professional, I might need a custom jack.
    I tore everything out of the bass and everything went together, except Warwick has that proprietary jack, I thought it should work fine.

  • @kalwroweh7049
    @kalwroweh7049 Před 11 měsíci

    Hello, I want to ask you, do you see as big problem that there are not stanless steel frets?Thanks for answer.

  • @Rooniman
    @Rooniman Před 3 lety +1

    I wonder if the 5 string San Dimas bass is any better, that uses Dimarzio's Area J pickups.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      I wonder as well, hopefully will check the 5'er out after this 4 :).

  • @sixwheelcarlisle8491
    @sixwheelcarlisle8491 Před 2 lety

    Bet that Squire CV 70s P bass is sounding pretty good lol

  • @MrLouisianaHayride
    @MrLouisianaHayride Před 3 lety +1

    I can totally see myself getting a used one and modding it.
    Lots to like here but yea, that preamps would have to go.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Kevin! Indeed, a heavy discount would make this more palatable as a mod platform for sure.

  • @dominicrossitto5890
    @dominicrossitto5890 Před 3 lety +1

    Honestly,....this just goes to show that the old saying "Sometimes, less is more" is true.
    This bass sounded fantastic WITHOUT the pre-amp. The tones from this bass when not using it were just so spot on.
    And when slapping this thing, I think the J pickup TYPICALLY has a sound more geared for slapping,....but I actually liked the tone while slapping with the P pickup even more. But they both sounded excellent for slapping.
    I had seen one of these on ebay used that sold pretty cheap right after they came out, and I'm kind of kicking myself for not even trying to put a bid on it.😖 But im only really getting back into just hunting for an affordable bass after not even having picked one up for YEARS. But still,....

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +2

      Well said Dominic! I feel like this bass was built to check boxes. It has these things, so it must be good. However, as this bass illustrates, you can have all the features in the world, but they're worthless if poorly executed.

    • @dominicrossitto5890
      @dominicrossitto5890 Před 3 lety

      @@LowEndLobster Or also if not even needed.

  • @landongonzales4852
    @landongonzales4852 Před 3 lety +4

    Love the look, hate the sound issues. Guess it was too good to be true at $899. They cheaped out on the only part of the bass you can’t see lol

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Well said Landon, indeed that seems to be the case. Thank you!

  • @josephbarbato9668
    @josephbarbato9668 Před 3 lety +1

    Oddly enough, San Dimas is actually my home town

  • @TheQtk
    @TheQtk Před rokem

    what about stripping the preamp make it vvtt + varitone ? that would make it very flexible and all passive

  • @JustSnowglow
    @JustSnowglow Před 3 lety +10

    Looks like a good candidate for a preamp replacement but it sure isn't priced like one.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +5

      Yep! It's definitely one thing if a preamp doesn't really add much value, but this one subtracts value and valuable control real estate.

    • @ironblast5
      @ironblast5 Před 2 lety

      @@LowEndLobster throw a john east 5 knob in it and call it good

  • @softsmoken
    @softsmoken Před 2 lety +2

    I was considering the blue one, looked up a demo and heard just a few seconds of it and I was like oh man, how's that sound so bad? Too bad, looked really nice.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety

      It really was a huge let down.... HUUUUGE. The mods brought this back to life, but out of the box this was a big disappointment.

    • @softsmoken
      @softsmoken Před 2 lety

      @@LowEndLobster yea... quite a bit of life in those dark glass. And I'd probably install it either way whatever I bought. Just sounds like such a bad starting point.

  • @oggorat
    @oggorat Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks for this review! I was really GASsing over that metallic red 5 string, but at well over $1000 CAD +tax I would expect something better than a mod platform...
    Also, whether you're a crustacean or a mollusk or whatever be excellent to each other my dudes! 🤙

  • @rikjones5924
    @rikjones5924 Před 2 lety

    Huge charvel bass fan..dig the color,maple neck.. I'm not a fan of chrome hardware.If this bass had black hardware,black colored pickups,rear plate and just a passive neck volume bridge volume and master tone..I would already own one!

  • @thecrayondemo
    @thecrayondemo Před 2 lety +1

    Was the original unboxing a black back plate? Compared to the cream one!

  • @charliebigred
    @charliebigred Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks for sharing the bummer stuff about the bass. I had similar beef with the active Flea bass Fender makes. The preamp (an Aguilar) makes the pickup explode into a distorted mess. I’m going to be in the market for a P type bass and I may avoid this one. Thanks again.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Charlie! That's a shame, Fender needs to step up their onboard preamp game

  • @mindcave
    @mindcave Před 6 měsíci

    Got home with mine and discovered, I got a bad dose of the BUZZ!!! Must have had my hands on the knobs and strings the whole time in the shop. Was horrible. Straight back the next day for a swap for a MIJ Hybrid ii Fender Jazz (which is EPIC). Shoddy QC in these Charvels. If the Japanesee pursuit of excellence was put into these? They would be one of the all time greats.

  • @michaelblaney4461
    @michaelblaney4461 Před 3 lety +1

    I guess if it was mine I get a new preamp OR rewire w 2 vol , 2 tones ,balance .
    I kind of had great hopes for that bass.
    I've got a similar bass the Fender Boxer .I got the Fender because I could get it first.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Michael! Indeed, I had hopes as well. How do you like the Boxer?

    • @michaelblaney4461
      @michaelblaney4461 Před 3 lety +1

      Yes I like the boxer my first MIJ fender a very different feel to a Mexican or American. Its clear sounding , lightweight real rosewood fret board for a change.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      @@michaelblaney4461 Nice! Yeah, the MIJ stuff is IMO peak quality and consistency.

  • @bgmunteanu
    @bgmunteanu Před 3 lety +1

    I also had to return a candy apple red San Dimas ProMod V. Some inlays were busted and the truss rod was completely stuck. No way to adjust it.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Man, that's a huge bummer! They need to step up their QC here.

  • @davidrichard2098
    @davidrichard2098 Před 3 lety +1

    Le fay review would be awsome

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks David! Sir Charles of CZcams fame lives like 30-40 min away hahaha, he wouldn't notice a missing LeFay would he? ;P

    • @davidrichard2098
      @davidrichard2098 Před 3 lety +1

      The Guy that Just started to play bass? LOL

  • @ShredAimlessly92
    @ShredAimlessly92 Před 3 lety +1

    I wonder if this preamp is the same as the preamp in their Deluxe MIM series. Those sound better but they also come with pickups that are nowhere near as spicy as the Model PJ DiMarzios...

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      It's possible, these are MIM as well. It's just a little box with a trim pot. I have a vid dropping on Friday where we fix the noise on this bass while keeping the stock controls.

  • @StevenFines13147
    @StevenFines13147 Před 3 lety +1

    Depending on the price I might buy one as a project bass, esp if I can find one used

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      They're already popping up on the used market for around $750, I have no doubt the less handy or less motivated would seek to flip theirs quickly if they got one with similar QC issues to mine. We shall see!

    • @StevenFines13147
      @StevenFines13147 Před 3 lety

      @@LowEndLobster at less than 650 it is probably a must buy, because you can then upgrade for less than the cost of new if you are judicious with your choices.

  • @rcb_matt
    @rcb_matt Před 2 lety +1

    I love the color options... but why buy a bass that will require mods right out of the box?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety

      Yep! I hope Charvel has improved things in regards to the QC and electronics. The pickups are absolutely killer and this bass is so close to being awesome... but it missed the mark in an extraordinary fashion

  • @naturaljoe7397
    @naturaljoe7397 Před 3 lety +5

    So... in short... the preamp in this bass makes it go to 11?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +1

      Yep, there's even a gain trim pot in the cavity that just makes things worse

  • @toucangames_7939
    @toucangames_7939 Před 3 lety +1

    plz review the 5 string

  • @kurstone8511
    @kurstone8511 Před 3 lety +3

    What’s your all time fav bass? If you had to pick ONE

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety +2

      That's a tough question! I think I've come to appreciate the differences of all the basses I've played, but honestly the one I gravitate too and use most for noodling recently has been my heavily modded Sire P10.

    • @kurstone8511
      @kurstone8511 Před 3 lety +2

      @@LowEndLobster thanks for taking the time to reply!

    • @teleespantoso
      @teleespantoso Před 3 lety +1

      Yeah, I second that one!
      The Ultimate Custom Shop Lobster Trap: how would it be like?
      Body, neck, wood, fretboard, pickups, pre or no Amp etc.
      This would be a cool mod-project.

  • @fm1057
    @fm1057 Před 3 lety +1

    The 5 string version have the same issue?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      No idea, haven't tested one yet. Hopefully will at some point!

  • @l8sk8r86
    @l8sk8r86 Před 2 lety +1

    That does not sound like a grounding issue, but merely a loud preamp, which seems not to your taste. Fans of a larger dynamic range might really enjoy this!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety +2

      See the follow up where we mostly fix the noise on the stock pre with some shielding and ground continuity :)

  • @klaymeister
    @klaymeister Před 2 lety +1

    Want to review the new 5 string version and see if they fixed the issues?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety

      I do! It appears both the 4 and 5 string have moved to the 'Area' pickups, though the 4 still is listed as having the Model PJ. I will revisit this bass and others this year.

  • @jasondoe2596
    @jasondoe2596 Před 3 lety +5

    Great review (as usual :)
    DiMarzio 's pickups sound amazing. What this bass needs is a fully passive variant, 100€ cheaper.
    As it is, it's worth less than 1€ to me. It's probably the noisiest you've ever tested, to the point of being unusable. Shame on Fender sending out clearly defective units.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Jason and 100% agreed. Now this one was purchased from a different shop as well and literally just came in, where as my first model was nearly two months ago. Both definitely had some noise which I mentioned. Truly a shame!

  • @CNick75
    @CNick75 Před 2 lety +1

    Well balanced and it immediately nose dives when you take your left hand off, lol

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety

      So some well balanced basses will still be slightly neck heavy in the lap. It's not perfect balance (like the Gibson LP Jr Tribute - perfect balance!), but I think this will be fine on a strap.

  • @DadBodBass
    @DadBodBass Před 2 lety +1

    Yeah, this makes me wonder what's going on in those companies, they designed a bass on paper and never played it? I don't get how this design got out of the prototype phase?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  Před 2 lety +1

      They probably had accountants on the design team lol

  • @michaelevans6485
    @michaelevans6485 Před 2 lety

    “Everything is different, but the same. Things are more moderner.. than before. Everything is bigger, yet smaller. It’s.. computers.” Best moment on this channel to date.