Convertible saddles offer two distinct voicings

The Vintage Plus bridge actually offers multiple stringing options — you can pass the strings through the body at a 45-degree angle or pass them through the tail end of the bridge. And whichever you choose, you can further dial in your tone via the convertible saddles. Each saddle has a rounder side for a slightly softer sound and a more angled side for a slightly tighter tone. And with the ability to convert each string’s saddle individually, you can fine-tune your bass tone on a per-string basis with this bridge.

Innovating basic concepts

When it comes to building a better bass, Yamaha took nothing for granted with the BB735A. For example, the bolt-on neck is joined to the body with six bolts, two of them mitered (joined at a 45-degree angle). Yamaha’s engineers determined that this offers more efficient transfer of vibration, leading to improved sustain and resonance. The innovation continues with the Vintage Plus bridge with diagonal body-through stringing, where strings pass through the body to the bridge at a 45-degree angle. This reduces stress on the string and also contributes to better vibrational transfer.

Impressive sonic control and active/passive operation

With its specially tuned active/passive circuit, the Yamaha BB735A boasts a sonic range that has impressed bassists at Sweetwater. The switchable active/passive circuit features a level-matched output, which means you won’t have to adjust your output volume when changing circuits. In active mode, you have comprehensive sound-shaping potential with the 3-band EQ. In passive mode, the treble control becomes a master tone control. And instead of a selector switch, a blend control allows you to find the perfect balance for its YGD Custom V7 pickups.

At first glance, the Yamaha BB735A 5-string bass is a workhorse instrument capable of a wide range of bass tones. Look a bit closer, and you’ll find a slew of innovations that make it a truly unique bass. Its 6-bolt miter neck joint transmits more string vibration to the body for impressive sustain, as does its Vintage Plus bridge with diagonal body-through stringing. The BB735A’s switchable active/passive circuits deliver impressive sonic versatility, with automatic level matching for both circuits. Factor in stainless steel hardware to resist corrosion over the years, and the Yamaha BB735A is truly a bass to treasure for a lifetime.

Yamaha BB735A 5-string Electric Bass Guitar Features:

• Alder/maple/alder multi-lam body construction for maximum tonal impact
• 6-bolt miter neck joint for improved vibrational transfer from strings to body
• YGD Custom V7 pickups with alnico magnets for an organic, well-defined sound
• Active/passive tone circuit with volume matching for consistent output
• 3-band EQ in active mode, treble control becomes your master tone control in passive mode
• Pickup blend knob for dialing in your ideal pickup combination
• Vintage Plus bridge with diagonal body-through stringing for better vibrational transfer
• Convertible saddles offer 2 distinct voicings that you can set per string
• Brass saddles for deep low end, steel bridge plate for added brightness
• All screws and springs are stainless steel to resist corrosion
• Lightweight tuning machines for improved balance