Ernie Ball Music Man
Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 5 HH BFR Electric Bass Blood Orange
$3,199.00
The definitive modern bass preamp and overdrive pedal. Combining a high-end DI with an aggressive, harmonically rich distortion circuit, it is the secret sauce behind the sound of modern heavy bass.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Unrivaled clarity and punch in the high-gain range, allowing bass to cut through dense mixes
- +Extensive tone-shaping controls with 4-band EQ and dedicated Attack and Grunt switches
- +Integrated high-quality DI box makes it a complete rig in a box for live use
- +Sturdy, elegant build quality that has become the industry standard for modern metal
Cons
- −The Darkglass clank can be difficult to dial out for players seeking a vintage, warm tone
- −Premium pricing reflects its status as a boutique industry standard
- −Requires careful EQing to avoid sounding too thin in non-metal contexts
The Verdict
The B7K V2 is a modern legend, earning a Legendary 100/100 EJ Score. It practically defined the sound of 21st-century metal and progressive rock bass. While it might be a one-trick pony for some, that trick is done better than anyone else. It is an essential tool for any bassist needing an aggressive, professional tone. It is simply the most influential bass pedal of the last decade.
