Is Rondo Music any good?

[006]

I have a Brice 5-string from them currently and I did own an Intrepid 8-string for a while. Both are solid instruments that I can't believe they don't charge more for.

 

[aortizjr]

Does anyone know whether the Z5 (5 string) bass is much better than the HXB-405? I'm wondering whether it would be a waste of money to get the Z5 if it's not drastically better than the HXB-405.

I don't own either bass, but I think "drastic" is a relative term. I don't think there are many basses that will be a "drastic" improvement until you get into the more "boutique" brands.

I think the Z5 adds a hell of a lot more features for less money. "Improved Preamp" whatever that means. But you get an ash body and 5 pc neck through makes it worth the extra money alone.

For me the ash body would be worth it out of the gate. Alder is fine too though. The thru-neck, some guys swear by it, I don't judge one way or the other. A great instrument can be built either way. But the theory is that you get better tone and sustain with better energy transfer. So yeah, I think it is worth the money for the Z5.

 

[NicholasDWolfwood]

I have an SX SJB62-5 fretless bass. I don't think they're even available from Rondo anymore, but I got it back in 2006 I believe. Over the years I've made some small adjustments. I immediately replaced the bridge (with a Schaller bridge with rollers, as the stock bridge had almost no mass.) Recently I put in a set of EMG J-X pickups, and the bass sounds far better to my ears now (even with 3 year old strings.) Right before I start recording my bands EP I'm going to change the strings again and I'll throw up a comparison clip.

But they're worth it. I spent $150 on it and I think it came 2 days later. I remember sending Kurt (the owner) an email about the fingerboard protection (as its rosewood) and an hour or two later I had gotten a reply.

So I mean, for ~$400 you have a bass that's comparable to, or imo better than, an MIM Fender. The higher quality Brice basses will definitely be better than an MIM Fender and will probably rival MIJ/MIA ones tbh.