Vola Guitars, based in Japan, has launched a new model, the ZVA 5 Bass. The handmade five-string instrument features an alder body, a maple neck, and options for either a rosewood or maple fingerboard.
Designed with a slightly extended 34.5-inch scale length and a modern C-shaped neck, the ZVA 5 Bass is intended for comfortable play. The neck has a thickness of 21.5mm at the 1st fret and 24mm at the 12th fret, and the fingerboard radius measures 9.5 inches. The bass includes a 47.6mm Duracon nut with a zero fret and has 21 frets.
Vola’s ZVA 5 Bass is equipped with their JS5 pickups, matched to the Vola ATR-I Active 3-band EQ system. A mini-switch allows players to switch between active and passive modes, providing a range of tonal options. The electronics setup includes a volume control, a balance knob, and the EQ for fine-tuning the sound. The hardware features a Gotoh 303 SJ 5 bridge with a string-through-body design, paired with Gotoh 404SJ-5 (4:1) tuners to ensure stable tuning. The bass comes fitted with D’Addario EXL-170-5SL strings, which are 45-130 super long scale.
Available in Sunburst Gloss and Ocean Turquoise Metallic Gloss finishes, the ZVA 5 Bass is made in Japan and includes a Vola Custom Series gig bag. Priced at $1,189 (€1,399), it is available now through Vola Guitars’ dealers and online platforms.