Spector has announced the release of its new Euro CST bass range, drawing inspiration from Spector’s Woodstock, NY-based Custom Shop. The Euro CST series introduces a blend of new tonewoods, electronics, and finish combinations, setting it apart from previous models in the Euro Series.
The Euro CST range includes both 4 and 5 string models, each crafted meticulously from premium materials. These basses feature a striking, highly figured Poplar Burl top, providing a visually distinctive appearance as well as a pronounced mid-range tonal response. The body is made of European Ash, a classic and resonant wood known for its balanced yet bright tone and unique grain patterns. Enhancing the construction, the basses have a slice of Walnut incorporated into the back wood for additional tonal richness.
The neck of each Euro CST instrument is constructed from a 3-piece North American Maple, reinforced with graphite rods for additional strength and stability. This is paired with an Ebony fingerboard, which is adorned with Spector’s signature laminated Abalone Crown inlays. The Euro 4 CST model has a nut width of 1.64 inches and a scale length of 34 inches, while the Euro 5 CST model features a nut width of 1.81 inches and a scale length of 35 inches. Both models have 24 frets, offering extensive playability.
Equipped with a lightweight aluminium bridge, these basses ensure precise and reliable intonation. The hardware is finished in a combination of black and gold, adding to the instrument’s premium aesthetic. The sealed die-cast Spector tuners complement the bridge, contributing to the overall tuning stability.
One of the standout features of the Euro CST series is the inclusion of active EMG X Series pickups. These pickups are renowned for their exceptional clarity, attack, and silent operation, providing a dynamic range and increased headroom. The pickup configuration includes a Reverse P/J setup, catering to a variety of tonal preferences. The controls on these instruments include volume, blend, treble cut/boost, and bass cut/boost, allowing for comprehensive sound shaping.
Central to the Euro CST’s appeal is the all-new Spector Legacy preamp, developed in collaboration with Darkglass Electronics. This preamp is designed to capture the classic ‘Spector growl’, a sound characteristic of many iconic recordings, while also offering modern versatility. The preamp features bass adjustments of ±12 dB at 60 Hz and treble adjustments of ±12 dB at 1 kHz.
The Euro CST basses are finished in high gloss, adding to their visual appeal. They come strung with D’Addario XL Nickel strings and are supplied with a gig bag for protection and portability. The string spacing for the Euro 4 CST is 19mm, and for the Euro 5 CST, it is 17mm.
Retail prices for the new Euro CST basses start from £2825.00.