{"id":726,"date":"2020-10-13T21:54:12","date_gmt":"2020-10-13T21:54:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/?p=726"},"modified":"2021-01-05T10:29:08","modified_gmt":"2021-01-05T10:29:08","slug":"are-carvin-basses-any-good","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/","title":{"rendered":"Are Carvin Basses Any Good? Build, Tone, &#038; Customization"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Kiesel basses, formerly known as Carvin, are USA-made instruments with top-notch build quality using the most beautiful top woods and tonewoods that deliver excellent value. The styles range from bolt-on to neck-thru to multi-scale to classic P or J style bass guitars. They are highly customizable.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kiesel\u2019s new expanded catalog includes additional customization options, revamped electronics, and highly competitive pricing considering these basses are <strong>US-made instruments<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are <strong>high on specs<\/strong> and features and leave you the option to decide if you want a no-frills bass or an over-the-top spec\u2019d out custom order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In terms of customization, there is a plethora of options for selecting the neck\/body tonewood, exotic top woods, instrument finish, fingerboard wood, fret wire, scale-length, electronics, hardware, and various other aspects of your Kiesel USA Custom Shop bass build.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kiesel\/Carvin\u2019s noteworthy bass guitars include the <strong>SB5000<\/strong> (one of the best), PB5, JB5, B25, and Vader headless bass. All allow for an extensive level of customization, and have a 10-day \u201cno questions asked\u201d return policy if you aren\u2019t satisfied with your purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you aren\u2019t after a customized bass, on the other hand, you can choose from an equally comprehensive range of currently available models from the Zeus, Vader, JB, PB, LB, Icon, Thanos, Osiris, and Artist Signature series.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike most brands, Kiesel\/Carvin has chosen the special order and direct-sales business model. <strong>You won\u2019t find their instruments in local stores<\/strong>, big or small. Instead, Carvin basses are <strong>made specially on request<\/strong> using the materials and design to be sold directly to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is a quick rundown of the greatest strengths of Kiesel\/Carvin bass guitars:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Outstanding build quality for the money<\/li><li>Top-notch components and hardware<\/li><li>Fully customizable: You can choose what it looks like<\/li><li>Neutral Tone &amp; Hi-fi\/Modern Electronics<\/li><li>Neat wiring in the control cavity with copper foil shielded<\/li><li>Some of the top headless bass designs in the world <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s dig in a bit more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-660043b91a64a\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-660043b91a64a\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Pros_cons_of_CarvinKiesel_basses\" title=\"Pros &amp; cons of Carvin\/Kiesel basses\">Pros &amp; cons of Carvin\/Kiesel basses<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Construction_quality\" title=\"Construction &amp; quality\">Construction &amp; quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Tone_electronics\" title=\"Tone &amp; electronics\">Tone &amp; electronics<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Value_for_money\" title=\"Value for money\">Value for money<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Top_Carvin_basses_to_look_at\" title=\"Top Carvin basses to look at\">Top Carvin basses to look at<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Carvin_PB4_PB5\" title=\"Carvin PB4 \/ PB5\">Carvin PB4 \/ PB5<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Carvin_BB76P\" title=\"Carvin BB76P\">Carvin BB76P<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Carvin_SB4001\" title=\"Carvin SB4001\">Carvin SB4001<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Carvin_Vanquish_Series_%E2%80%93_multiscale_basses\" title=\"Carvin Vanquish Series \u2013 multiscale basses\">Carvin Vanquish Series \u2013 multiscale basses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Carvin_LB75\" title=\"Carvin LB75\">Carvin LB75<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Kiesel_JB_Series\" title=\"Kiesel JB Series\">Kiesel JB Series<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Kiesel_Vader_Series\" title=\"Kiesel Vader Series\">Kiesel Vader Series<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Kiesel_B24_%E2%80%93_B25_%E2%80%93_Brian_Bromberg_Signature\" title=\"Kiesel B24 &#8211; B25 &#8211; Brian Bromberg Signature\">Kiesel B24 &#8211; B25 &#8211; Brian Bromberg Signature<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/#Final_words\" title=\"Final words\">Final words<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pros_cons_of_CarvinKiesel_basses\"><\/span>Pros &amp; cons of Carvin\/Kiesel basses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"246\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/20170924_185010.jpg\" alt=\"carvin bass\" class=\"wp-image-760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/20170924_185010.jpg 640w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/20170924_185010-300x115.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption>Carvin LB70 &#8211; courtesy of Marc D&#8217;Larosa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Construction_quality\"><\/span>Construction &amp; quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The consensus is that Carvin basses are <strong>highly playable instruments<\/strong> that are <strong>solidly built<\/strong> with practicable and attractive components. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Being able to pick all the woods, electronics, and hardware\/finish down to every minor detail is highly gratifying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The only downside is that you need to wait for the order to be built and shipped to you, though in most cases is totally worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kiesel basses are unique and have a different approach than what most musicians are used to. They offer excellent value, provided you feel comfortable with the Ibanez-like <strong>ultra-thin neck thickness<\/strong> (front to back) &#8211; roughly 0.78\u201d with most models sporting the standard 14-inch neck radius.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their headstock design and headless basses are also peculiar. Be sure to examine closely the design you order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tone_electronics\"><\/span>Tone &amp; electronics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Carvin offers a <strong>hi-fidelity neutral tone<\/strong>. It\u2019s a great starting point for those who seek a versatile bass tone that can be sculpted to suit your style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It helps to think of them as a blank canvas rather than a colored sound &#8211; they are good for people looking for a clean and transparent tone that is open-ended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you spend time exploring what the electronics can do, you will find that these basses are capable of fitting into most musical contexts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Fender J or P-bass, EBMM, and Warwicks are known for their intrinsic and instantaneously recognizable sonic character.  Carvin\/Keisel instruments, on the other hand, are more <strong>chameleon basses<\/strong>, like high-end Ibanez that can sound neutral to some and sterile to others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want your bass to have a soul \u2013 a tone coloration or \u201ccharacter\u201d out of the box, you may be disappointed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That said, if you find the tone too generic, you can reap the benefits of their customization\/build quality and replace the electronics to get the best of both worlds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Value_for_money\"><\/span>Value for money<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Carvins are well respected in the bass world, and these basses give you the best value for money in the &#8220;custom&#8221; builder arena. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since the rebranding in 2008, the Kiesel\/Carvin catalog has drastically expanded its offerings and improved the electronics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That said, if you want a truly high-end boutique instrument and have the budget for it, there may be better options out there. If you are in the market for a $4k+ bass, <strong>Mike Lull<\/strong>, <strong>Moon Bass<\/strong>, or <strong>Sadowsky <\/strong>are worthy alternatives. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They may not be as customizable but they do offer stellar build quality, resale value, and tonality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>resale value<\/strong> of Carvins is relatively poor because the new basses aren&#8217;t that expensive to begin with. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A common issue with made-to-order customizable builds is that, while you pay for customizing a new instrument exactly the way you want, these specs won\u2019t necessarily retain that appeal\/value for the person you resell it to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thus, the resale value really depends on the demand for your specs. As a result, brand recognition doesn&#8217;t play as big a role as for Fodera or other brand name basses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The flip side of the relatively low resale value is that you can easily find a used Carvin and upgrade its pickups to end up with a great instrument at a very affordable price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Top_Carvin_basses_to_look_at\"><\/span>Top Carvin basses to look at<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Carvin_PB4_PB5\"><\/span>Carvin PB4 \/ PB5<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"860\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pb5.jpg\" alt=\"carvin pb5\" class=\"wp-image-761\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pb5.jpg 960w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pb5-300x269.jpg 300w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pb5-768x688.jpg 768w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/pb5-810x726.jpg 810w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The PB4\/PB5 is a testament to Carvin being at the top of its game. These instruments are gorgeous, well-built and they play like a dream. You have the option of a single-coil in the bridge pickup for extended tonal range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The PB5 can approximate the Fender Precision sound quite well. Overall, the pickup is hotter than the original, which can be great if it suits your personal preference. The p\u2019ups are of standard size, but you can easily upgrade them with aftermarket split-coil pickups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Carvin Guitars PB5 Bass Guitar Demo and Overview\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iiZpBCmZBy8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The alder body P-style Carvins have a volume\/ tone control panel. They offer everything that a Fender P has and more. You can roll off the treble and palm mute them to get some memorable double bass (upright) tones, or you can flip to active and get some thrashing-good fat and assertive tones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Carvin_BB76P\"><\/span>Carvin BB76P<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"575\" height=\"180\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/bb76prubyredquilt-63774.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-763\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/bb76prubyredquilt-63774.jpg 575w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/bb76prubyredquilt-63774-300x94.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 575px) 100vw, 575px\" \/><figcaption>Source: Carvin Museum<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The Bunny Brunnel Signature basses have a tight-grained alder body with top woods like Flamed Koa or Claro-walnut, an ebony fingerboard, and a 5-piece maple Neck-thru design. The asymmetrical neck is slim on the treble side to improve reach to the low-end strings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The BB76P has a De-Tuner on the B-string that will drop to A when needed. It has 18v active electronics with a Piezo bridge and the option of stringing it through the body or on the bridge when you need a quick string change during a concert. You can also use the volume knob to shut the active electronics and shift to passive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The neck, albeit a little thicker, is comparable to the Ibanez SR Prestige basses, and the string spacing is tighter so there is a significant difference in the feel. You can toggle the bridge humbucker pickup between single or dual coil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a steal considering that you can find a used instrument with a hardshell case for around $1500-1600 on <a href=\"https:\/\/reverb.com\/item\/31970347-carvin-bb76p-bunny-brunel-signature-6-string-bass-in-pristine-condition\">Reverb<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The BB76F is another great option with an impeccable build and meticulous design and detailing. The tone on both models is similar to many other top-end neck-through instrument &#8211; versatile, solid, but somewhat sterile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The concurrent versions have an 18v pre that is quiet and offers a lot of tone sculpting options. As for the intrinsic tone, you could define it as a modern smooth sounding tone with &#8220;hi-fi&#8221; characteristics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The new electronics have an internal circuit that retains volume consistency when you switch between active and passive modes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Carvin_SB4001\"><\/span>Carvin SB4001<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Carvin-SB4001.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-764\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Carvin-SB4001.jpg 640w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Carvin-SB4001-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The SB series was designed in conjunction with the famous session bassist Sekou Bunch in 2009 to create an instrument with a \u201cvintage vibe\u201d. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The SB4001 starts with an alder body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, and can be customized in every aspect imaginable. You can also opt for the alternative chambered body to reduce the weight by a pound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The feel and stability are as good as they get, but the 19mm string spacing and 12\u201d radius are reminiscent of the ultra-thin Ibanez necks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The tone rests on the shoulders of the Carvin J99A single-coil pickups (alnico), which may warrant an upgrade with more formidable aftermarket options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Carvin_Vanquish_Series_%E2%80%93_multiscale_basses\"><\/span>Carvin Vanquish Series \u2013 multiscale basses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Carvin Guitars Vanquish 69,000, V69K 6 string Bass Guitars Demo\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/9_StGDurqNM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The USA-made Vanquish Series includes the regular V58K and the multiscale VM49K (4-string), VM59K (5-string), and the Roy Vogt Signature 6-string. They are stage and studio ready bass guitars with all the hallmarks of a top-class boutique build. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are customizable and can be returned for a refund after a 10 day trial, as per the \u201cno questions asked\u201d policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The entire series has rock solid bolt-on necks that are lightweight (ranges from 8 to 10 lbs) with great feel and finish (tung oil). They have ash bodies with walnut\/purpleheart necks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The styling on the Vanquish series is modern and assertive with the quality of features you\u2019d only find in a boutique build. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, these basses have superior balance and the beveled contours are ideal for comfort and ergonomics. The thoughtful ergonomic design is the real highlight of this series. For example, the neck plate with ferrules on the V59K significantly increases comfort while accessing the upper frets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The electronics are versatile enough for any genre but work particularly well for funk, fusion, and any modern style that needs a glassy, hi-fidelity sound. The single-coils are crisp and snappy and the humbuckers are warm and thick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Carvin_LB75\"><\/span>Carvin LB75<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"213\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/carvin-lb75.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/carvin-lb75.jpg 640w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/carvin-lb75-300x100.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption>Source: Carvin Museum<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Among the high-performing LB Series, the active-electronics LB 75 stands out as a highly modifiable bass that can look and sound like something twice the price. It has a fully rounded alder body with chambered contours\/curves and a forearm cutout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is one of the older models that debuted in 1988, so the electronics have some gaps that you may fill with aftermarket upgrades. It features 18V active\/passive electronics with a push-pull active passive switch, stacked bass\/treble knob, a pickup blend knob, and stacked concentric mid with mid-sweep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The tone knobs and passive switch may feel relatively less responsive compared to present-day instruments. On the plus side, the tone is neutral and versatile, especially when you toggle the humbucker single\/double switch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The neck-thru design results in improved resonance and the balance, weight, finish, and construction are worthy of high-end boutique standard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kiesel_JB_Series\"><\/span>Kiesel JB Series<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"213\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/kiesel-jb5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-767\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/kiesel-jb5.jpg 640w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/kiesel-jb5-300x100.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption>Source: Kiesel Guitars<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The JB Series offers variants of the classic jazz bolt-neck bass in 4, 5, and 6 strings with or without frets. The <strong>Kiesel JB5<\/strong> has a 5-bolt neck with a contoured neck heel, locking bass bridge, and dual carbon-fiber reinforcement rods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It has superior balance, tone, and playability for the price, and you can go on to customize it to a fully-loaded super-jazz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The stock pickups are bright but lack low-mids. If you don\u2019t enjoy their snappy tone, you can swap them with other p\u2019ups like the Fender Custom shops or EMG J5.  Kiesel has taken note of the pre-2010 complaints about the electronics, which has resulted in greatly improved newer models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Kiesel JB4<\/strong> is another compelling option in terms of playability for the price. It can square up to any top-end bass and outclasses the Fenders and Ibanez offerings in this price bracket. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The electronics are dynamic and responsive and the tone ranges from throaty to bright to huge while retaining clarity and definition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, the JB series, especially in its current avatar, offers an interesting take on the classic Jazz bass that can be customized to great effect. If you do choose to customize any Kiesel JB Series bass, you should consider the multiscale version and asymmetrical neck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kiesel_Vader_Series\"><\/span>Kiesel Vader Series<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Kiesel Vader VB5 Headless bass - quick demo\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4Ae8uiiHuj4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Kiesel specializes in headless instruments and the Vader series ranks among the top 5 headless designs in the world. With this series, Kiesel tried to replicate the massive success of Vader Series headless electric guitars. The Vader features alongside other headless product lines like Osiris and Thanos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vader basses come in 4, 5, and 6-string versions in the standard 34\u201d scale length and a 30&#8243; short-scale option. Unlike the composites used in other models, the VB4 Vader is constructed from premium woods.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These basses weigh around 8 lbs and feature a 1.54\u201d nut width, Kiesel locking nuts (works for any standard size strings), and Hipshot tuners that don\u2019t require double ball string sets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The current series comes stock with the new \u201cRadium\u201d pickups (alnico humbuckers) in the neck and bridge position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kiesel_B24_%E2%80%93_B25_%E2%80%93_Brian_Bromberg_Signature\"><\/span>Kiesel B24 &#8211; B25 &#8211; Brian Bromberg Signature<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"214\" src=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/kiesel-b25.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/kiesel-b25.jpg 640w, https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/kiesel-b25-300x100.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption>Source: Kiesel Guitars<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Brian Bromberg signature series delivers killer instruments with commendable stock electronics. The Kiesel B24 and B25 have received a lot of critical acclaim for the comfort, ergonomics, and electronics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The noteworthy features include an ebony fingerboard, 12<sup>th<\/sup> fret abalone Brian Bromberg inlay, Hipshot A-style tuners, 24 medium-jumbo frets, and a fully-adjustable dual action truss rod. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The impressive electronics are designed in conjunction with Bromberg and contain KRJ alnico single coils, high-impedance input circuitry, and a versatile 18v active preamp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_words\"><\/span>Final words<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Carvin has come a long way from their mail-order catalogs of the 80s and 90s. Today with Kiesel, you get a modernized design with graphite-reinforced necks, improved electronics (pickups\/preamp), and a wide-ranging choice of boutique finishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These guitars have been used and endorsed by artists like Brian Bromberg, John McVie (Fleetwood Mac), Scott Thunes (Frank Zappa), Francis Buchholz (Scorpions), Amlak Tafari (Steel Pulse), James Lomenzo (White Lion, Black Label Society), and many other renowned bass players. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These are world-class instruments that deserve serious consideration among bass enthusiasts and professionals.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Kiesel basses, formerly known as Carvin, are USA-made instruments with top-notch build quality using the most beautiful top woods and tonewoods that deliver excellent value. The styles range from bolt-on to neck-thru to multi-scale to classic P or J style bass guitars. They are highly customizable. Kiesel\u2019s new expanded catalog includes additional customization options, revamped &#8230; <a title=\"Are Carvin Basses Any Good? Build, Tone, &#038; Customization\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/are-carvin-basses-any-good\/\" aria-label=\"More on Are Carvin Basses Any Good? Build, Tone, &#038; Customization\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":759,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/726"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=726"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/726\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/759"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=726"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=726"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/groovewiz.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=726"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}