JB-40FL 3-Tone Sunburst : If your a serious bass player GET THIS!

Bought this after a year of having it in the “shopping cart” and thinking about it. After I saw Lobster’s video giving it 5 “claws” I was sold. This is my first Harley Benton product and definitely not the last!

The bass is very well constructed. I am so impressed at the quality of the finish, fit, parts and sound, it blows my mind to know it came from a bass this inexpensive.

The sound is very reminiscent of a true jazz bass, but mixed in with the obvious mwah and nuances of a fretless bass. Pickups are great, although electronics could benefit a better, higher quality wiring harness or preamp, mostly for volume, and noise reduction, as it is a bit noisy. But certainly not at all necessary.

Hardware is great. Was expecting way cheaper feeling tuners/bridge, but to my surprise I will be keeping both on as I don’t find it necessary to upgrade them.

Neck is buttery smooth. I just love it. The fretlines are very well installed, and fingerboard wood is beautiful. The edges of the fingerboard are a little sharp though, i will round it out eventually.

I love the harley benton headstock shape. One of the best ones out there.

Now for the “cons”. This bass is somewhat heavy. Heavier than my 5 string jazz bass with active preamp. I just use a wider strap and strap locks.

Like I mentioned, the noise. I haven’t gone under the control cavity, but I’m guessing these basses aren’t shielded. But if that’s the case, it’s an easy fix.

In conclusion, i can’t recommend this bass enough! For your first fretless is more than enough. Even as a main player, it is just good. I think of a fretless bass as a must for any serious bass player to learn, as you just learn to navigate the fingerboard in a totally different way. It’s just FUN!