Ibanez UB805 Compact Electric Upright 5 String Bass, Mahogany Oil Burst Overview
Ibanez’s UB805 is crafted for the bassist who desires the richness of an upright bass without the cumbersome size, or the musician intrigued by the fusion of traditional and modern bass elements. With its unique features and thoughtful design, it serves as an ideal choice for explorative bassists keen to diversify their sonic palette.
Crafted with a 34” scale length, the Ibanez UB805 allows bass guitarists a fluid switch to an upright instrument. Its unique conical compound fingerboard radius is the essence of its dual-natured prowess, harmoniously catering to both bowing and fingerstyle techniques. Meticulously constructed with a compact Maple body, this upright bass ensures a synergy between aesthetic appeal and ergonomic playability.
Acoustic Integrity with Compactness
Don’t be fooled by its slender frame. The UB805 delivers a full-bodied acoustic resonance, letting you enjoy a rich and natural sound. The reduced size also translates to the ease of transport, making it a go-to instrument for gigs, practices, and studio sessions alike.
Ibanez Bass Workshop: A Legacy of Innovation
For over four decades, Ibanez has been at the forefront of bass guitar advancements, continually pushing the envelope in design and functionality. The UB805 is another gem from the Ibanez Bass Workshop project, aimed at addressing the unique needs and creative aspirations of discerning bassists.
Materials and Construction: Maple, Walnut, and Jatoba
The neck of the UB805 is a fusion of 5-piece Maple and Walnut, providing both tonal lucidity and a robust attack. The reddish-brown Jatoba fretboard further enriches the tonal spectrum with its emphasis on mid-range frequencies and crisp highs. Meanwhile, the Maple wing body augments the sound’s brightness and clarity.
Specialised Pickups and Tone Control: AeroSilk Piezo System
Nestled within the custom bridge is the AeroSilk Piezo system, which recreates the airy qualities of a classic upright bass sound. To maximise this Piezo magic, the instrument also comes with an active tone control tailored specifically for the AeroSilk Piezo.
Custom AeroSilk MR5 Bridge and Versatile Playability
The unique saddles on the AeroSilk MR5 bridge are carefully engineered to function seamlessly with the piezo pickups, thereby enhancing the acoustic virtues of the tone. It is meticulously adjusted to accommodate both fingerstyle and bow play techniques.
Gig Bag and TAMA® Roadpro Stand
The padded gig bag offers a one-stop solution for carrying the bass, a bow, and even a stand. Speaking of stands, a custom TAMA® Roadpro designed specifically for upright basses is also part of the package.
