BITE Guitars has unveiled its latest addition to their custom bass collection, the Tasty Vanilla series. This new range features an aesthetically pleasing satinated off-white finish, complemented by white pickups and the absence of a pickguard, which the company refers to as ‘rear access’. The fretboard boasts light-coloured natural maple with pearl blocks, further enhanced by the luxurious touch of 24 karat gold plated hardware.
The Tasty Vanilla series presents two models: a 4-string version with a 34-inch scale and a 5-string variant at 33 inches, the latter being noted for its rarity in medium scale 5-string basses. According to BITE, the 33-inch 5-string model delivers a robust performance without the common issue of a ‘floppy B string’, ensuring sound quality that matches larger scale instruments.
In terms of sound capabilities, both models are equipped with BITE’s own high-output passive pickups, featuring a unique Reverse PJ configuration. This design places the DG coil of the P pickup closer to the neck, offering enhanced playability across the D and G strings and adding depth to their sound. The electronics follow a traditional Jazz-type parallel circuit, consisting of two volume controls and one tone control, ensuring a versatile sound palette.
The instruments feature a reinforced headstock heel for increased sustain and output, a sleek BITE 4-in-line or 4+1 headstock with a distinctive bite mark, and are constructed from high-quality materials including Alder bodies and natural hard maple necks with a satin speed finish. The fretboards are adorned with natural maple and pearl block inlays, and the hardware includes gold diamond dome control knobs, gold cloverleaf tuners, and a premium GOTOH® brass bridge in gold.
BITE has set the price for the 4-string Jawbone Tasty Vanilla RPJ at €2,619.00, including VAT but excluding shipping costs. The 5-string model, Jawbone Tasty Vanilla RPJ 5er, is priced at €3,390.00, also including VAT but excluding shipping costs.