Vintage VCB 430
If you fancy an acoustic bass but are forced to work on a low budget then you really should take a look at the VCB 430.
It's way cheaper than the rest of our selection but it has a lot more going for it than just a modest price. The moody translucent black finish to the body and neck gives a velvety appearance and offers huge visual impact.
The rosewood bridge, with the string ends neatly hidden beneath the surface, and the unassuming dot inlays on the fingerboard, also play a part in giving this bass a superior overall look.
With the multiply binding kept purely to the body and the use of a diminutive headstock size and shape this is neatly elevated into a class way above its price point.
However, if this rather distinctive presentation is not to your liking then a natural finish with a satin flame maple top is also available at the same price.
Again the VCB 430 has just the endpin/jack socket as the only means of using a strap so a second button will be required if you don't want to sit and play all the time.
Sounds
Standing or sitting, this is certainly a big bass to handle with its full-scale neck and deep cutaway body, but this all helps to give the natural acoustic sound a forceful and robust delivery.
When amplified the preamp will happily reproduce this natural delivery, or substantially enhance or transform it, but whatever you prefer the results remain pleasing.
MusicRadar Rating
Pros
Price; moody finish; simplicity of design.
Cons
Single strap button again!
Verdict
This Vintage really does offer excellent value for money as it looks, sounds and handles like a more expensive instrument.
Review Policy
All MusicRadar's reviews are by independent product specialists, who are not aligned to any gear manufacturer or retailer. Our experts also write for renowned magazines such as Guitarist, Total Guitar, Computer Music, Future Music and Rhythm. All are part of Future PLC, the biggest publisher of music making magazines in the world.
Specification
Country of Origin
Korea
Available Controls
EQ Rotary Volume
Back and Sides Finish
Laminate
Back Material
Mahogany
Bolt-on Neck
No
Case Included
No
Cutaway
Yes
Fretless
No
Includes Bag
No
Inlays
Dot
Left Handed Model Available
No
Neck Material
Nato
No of Strings
4
Pickguard
No
Sides Material
Mahogany
Top Material
Flame Maple
Phantom power
No
Tremolo
No






