Jackson CBX V David Ellefson Signature 5-String Electric Bass Quicksilver
Megadeth bassist's signature 5-string with contoured basswood body, active 3-band EQ, and Jackson HiMass bridge. Built for aggressive metal tones and fleet-fingered thrash precision.
Critics
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Exceptional Indonesian build quality with flawless binding, clean paint, and thoughtful control cavity layout
- +Active 3-band EQ provides extensive tonal control for bass, mid, and treble shaping
- +HiMass bridge delivers quick attack and massive sustain for aggressive playing styles
- +Neck profile is substantial but highly playable with fast action and easy navigation
Cons
- −Community score of 10/100 from Musician's Friend suggests major issues despite positive individual reviews
- −Contoured basswood body may lack the resonance and depth of ash or alder alternatives
- −Active electronics require 9V battery maintenance and monitoring
- −At $800, pricing seems high given the low community reception and budget-oriented basswood construction
The Verdict
Here’s a head-scratcher: glowing individual reviews praising build quality and tone, but a disastrous 10/100 community score from Musician’s Friend. The CBX V is clearly well-built—Indonesian Jackson quality is legit—but something about this bass isn’t connecting with buyers. Maybe it’s the basswood body, maybe it’s Ellefson’s controversial reputation, or maybe the thrash metal niche is too narrow. At $800, you’re paying signature artist premium for a guitar with serious perception problems. Unless you’re a die-hard Megadeth fan, there are safer bets in this price range.
