1982 Vantage VS600B Fretless Bass Double Cutaway (MIJ)

1982 Vantage VS600B Fretless Bass Double Cutaway (MIJ)

Here’s a rare and seriously underrated gem from the golden era of Japanese craftsmanship, the 1982 Vantage VS600B built at the legendary Matsumoku factory. Finished in a natural satin and sporting a double cutaway design, this bass features a mahogany body with a laminated maple centre block and walnut stripes running through it. At 4.2kg, it’s got a solid feel without being a back-breaker, and the factory fretless setup opens up a world of sonic possibility not limited by pesky frets.

The neck is constructed from three-piece laminated maple and is bolt-on in design, although is designed to "imitate" a neck through construction with a smooth contoured neck joint for smooth playability. Paired with an unbound rosewood fingerboard that’s clean, dark, and side-dot marked for accuracy, it sports a 34 1/2" scale, 40mm bone nut, and a medium “D” profile. Finished in semi-gloss polyurethane, the neck plays effortlessly and the 9.5" radius means comfortable playing across the board whether you’re gliding through melodic passages or sitting deep in the pocket.

Electronics are stripped back and powerful - just a single Vantage custom-engineered “split coil” humbucking pickup in the sweet spot, pumping out a hefty 11.9kOhms of output. Despite the simple setup, this thing covers a lot of ground, delivering punchy, articulate mids and a warm low-end growl that sounds especially rich when paired with flatwounds or a touch of EQ. A true vintage sleeper with tone for days - if you're after a unique fretless that oozes character, this one’s well worth a look.

In amazing condition for its age, the bass is free from any structural issues or major wear and tear. A few dings, dents and scratches here and there are the worst of the wear and the bass is also sporting a replaced bridge. Aside from this, the bass is 100% original and in great shape. It has been professionally serviced and setup with 45-105 strings for optimal playability. The neck is straight and the bass is perfectly intonated.

Specifications:

Make: Vantage

Model: VS600B (Fretless)

Origin: Matsumoku, Japan, November 1982

Body: Mahogany w/ Laminated Maple Centre Block & Walnut Stripes

Neck: Three Piece Laminated Maple (Bolt-On)

Fingerboard: Unbound Rosewood

Pickups: Vantage Custom-Engineered “Split Coil” Humbucking Pickup: 11.9kOhms

Neck Profile: 34 1/2" Scale, Medium "D" Profile, Semi-Gloss Finish, 9.5" Fingerboard Radius, 40mm Nut Width (Bone)

Frets: Fretless

Finish: Satin Finish

Weight: 4.2kg

Shipping & Returns:

Domestic AU Shipping (Insured) - $Free

International Shipping (Insured) - $199.99

Local Pickup/Click & Collect - 135 New Canterbury Road, Lewisham 2049

The item is sold as is - if it is broken or damaged on arrival, we will offer you a return/refund. We cannot accept returns for change of mind or offer any warranty on used/vintage items.