Warwick debuts new RockBass models
(Dave Molter | Posted 2010-03-15)
Known for their outstanding looks and playability, Warwick basses are the choice of many touring pros including the bassists for such diverse artists as Alice in Chains, Lyle Lovett, R. Kelly and Limp Bizkit. Now Warwick has introduced the new, moderately-priced RockBass line that carrie the design characteristics of its more expensive warwick brothers.
Specs common to all RockBass models:
Scale: 34"
Strings: Warwick Red Label M Strings
Maple Bolt-on Neck
Rosewood Fingerboard
String Spacing at the bridge: all 4 strings = 19 mm;
all 5 strings = 16.5 mm
RockBass 1-piece Bridge
Set-up tools: (5 mm and 1.5 mm allen wrenches) are included
Street pricing for 4-string models begins at $499 for the entry-level Streamer Standard.
The RockBass Streamer Standard models are remarkable entry level instruments with the exceptional sound and playability typically found in higher end basses. The solid carolena body, hardly ever found on basses in this price range, delivers a large variety of exceptional, pleasing tones and incredible sustain. Each model is available in 4- or 5-string configurations and is equipped with two MEC soapbar pickups and comes in a gloss black or transparent red gloss finish.
The popular Corvette body shape, known worldwide marks the RockBass Corvette Basic (pictured) -- a 2-piece alder lends graceful curves and a solid foundation to provide both thundering lows and distinct highs in an instrument that is just as much fun to play as it is to look at it. The 2 MEC Gold active jazz pickups are paired with active 2-band electronics to provide a wealth of tones well suited for stage or studio. The RockBass Corvette Basic is available in gloss black, gloss white, gloss almond sunburst, or transparent blue gloss finishes and is also available in fretless and left-handed versions at no additional cost.
The RockBass Corvette SE stands slightly apart from its other Corvette brethren. Based on the same unique body style, this bass is gracefully contoured with smooth, alluring curves that take full advantage of the captivating beauty of this elegant bass. The natural gloss finish is enhanced by the amber, 2 piece alder body that is sharply contrasted by a stunning 5mm AAA flamed-maple cap. The SE not only looks great… it plays and feels equally well, but wait until you hear it! It is quick to respond and produces a wide range of tonal possibilities: from the most gentle of nuances or hard slapping for fat, chunky lines. The 2 active MEC Gold jazz pickups are perfectly matched to the 2-band active electronics for diverse control of your sound.
The RockBass Vampyre's fiendishly innovative body styling makes it a formidable tool for delivering the deepest of underworld tones and the crispest of bright highs. The sultry sculpting of the solid alder body is accented by the wicked, gloss black finish and chrome hardware. A bolt-on maple neck is paired with a 24-fret rosewood fingerboard, perfect for sinking your teeth into regardless of your playing style. Additionally, the ominous body shape achieves surprising balance. The Vampyre's tonal versatility is further enhanced by its outstanding pickup and electronic arsenal. An active MEC "Gold" Twin Jazz pickup in the bridge position plus an active MEC "Gold" Jazz neck pickup are united by the 2-band active electronics for sinful control of your sound: deep, throaty lows, edgy mids, and clear, biting highs. Available in 4 and 5 string fretted versions.
The RockBass Fortress is a re-issue of the Warwick Fortress, which was taken out of production in the late 1990's. There was so much public interest in the Fortress shape like Warwick decided to bring it back as a new member of the wildly successful RockBass line. The Fortress features a swamp ash body, maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard. The 4-string version comes loaded with active MEC Gold P and J-style pickups, while the 5-string comes with two active MEC Gold J-style pickups. Both basses have MEC active 2-band preamps on board. These basses are available in the US in either a honey violin stained, high polish finish or a beautiful burgundy burst, 3-tone high polish sunburst. For the perfect finishing touch, Warwick used black hardware.
