PBC [Bunker] GTB355H Reviews

On 2003-09-27, Golem rated this PBC [Bunker] GTB355H a 5...(5714)


Purchase: $700 at Adirondack Strings in Albany NY. I don't know why I was there or why I even bought it, but I'm glad I did. Came with very decent hardcase as well [guitar-sized, read on....]
Pros: It'a a headless 5 string with a "normal" body [fits in a guitar gig bag]. Neck is the PBC/Bunker/Trekker tension-free neck [see their website] which needs no tweaks for season changes etc. Tuneable monorail bridges give this headless 5 wider string spacing than other headless 5's that use a Steinberger bridge. Two honking fat EMG soap bars kick major butt and the single tone knob really works. Between the tone knob and PU balancing you can get a variety of tones, most of which sound loud even at lower volume. [I think this is what some call "cutting through?] Bunker also offers an alternative PU set [non-EMG, forgot name, see website]. Another good thing about PBC/Bunkers is that they all come with David Bunker who is alwyas very helpful on the phone.
Cons: Has two volume knobs instead of a fader. Requires double-ball strings [but some headless PBCs get around this, and each can be converted to the other by Bunker, but it's not cheap].
Quality: It's a very well crafted item, curly maple top, wood-jacketed steel neck, unique mono bridges anchored to a heavy steel plate on the bottom side of the body. The whole bridge assembly is amazing [again see web site]. Has the usual specs: 24 fret 34" scale, rosewood board, 9v system. I think it's an "active PUs/passive EQ" set up, an odd choice these days but sound is huge.

Review Summary: Obviously not for everyone [and there is a version with normal peg head] but everyone loves the sound. It's compact in headless form, not too heavy and very well balanced so it's easy to play. Neck feels a little fat but at least you don't have to put any effort into holding it up. Sounds killer. Can seem piercing even without much treble in the EQ [OK, I have my PUs raised pretty close to the strings] and that's with flat wound strings. This one is definitely NOT your father's Oldsmaobile [or Fender bass].

Submit Your Gear Review

Home - Choose New Category or Read News
More PBC [Bunker] Bass Guitar Reviews
Bass Guitar Reviews from All Brands & Manufacturers

Ask about this item - view topics in the Bass_Guitars forum.

 Looking for something else?
Search MusicGearReview.com below:

Latest Bass Guitar Discussions

Special Bass Guitar Deals

The flagship of the Cirrus line! This baby's got it all and then some. Beautiful quilted maple top, back, and headstock veneer, studio-quiet activ... Read More Here: Peavey Cirrus 5 5-String Bass Tiger Eye MSRP $3189.99 Now $2549.99

With its slim 30" scale neck and lightweight body, the Squier Affinity Series Bronco Bass Guitar is an easy-to-play bass. Features a double-cutaw... Read More Here: Squier by Fender Affinity Series Bronco Bass Guitar Black MSRP $249.99 Now $149.99

More PBC [Bunker] Bass Guitar sale items