Ampeg Big Stud

This is a review for the Ampeg Big Stud bass. If I were to be completely honest, I'd say, do not buy this bass unless you get a great deal on it.

It was made out of plywood, budget hardware and 2 of the puniest single coil pickups I have ever seen in a bass.

Cranked up you can get one throaty, heavy mid sound, but so can most basses.

I hear these were made for Ampeg by Tokai. Sigma, Martin Guitars overseas line, also marketed a similar bass, most likely made in the same factory with a different headstock and logo.

I acquired this through a trade. I wouldn't pay more than $100 for this bass except for the fact that someone out there will pay more strictly because of the Ampeg name.

It does have one usable tone. I spent over an hour messing with it to realize I'm not a fan of this bass.

It does look pretty punk rock in that ugly red headed stepchild way.

It plays poorly. The neck is a tree trunk and the million and one layers of plywood weighs a ton. I can't imagine playing a multi set night with this beast.

Even though it is made out of cheap materials, I think this thing could survive a nuclear blast. I got it after 30 years of neglect and hope to pass it off to a player who will find a use for it.

The electronics are a bit noisy. The hardware is cheap, but manages to serve it's purpose in keeping the instrument playable and in tune.

I would not recommend this to someone looking for a versatile bass. I do not see this bass being collectible. I would not pay over $200 for this bass.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com