I'm ordering this tomorrow!

Gary Blanchard

Gary Blanchard

beloved, local musician
PNB14E_OPN-b6ef06ff11fc82c83c8e2752f003e1d3.jpg

Ibanez PNB14E Performance Parlor Bass
The Ibanez PBN14E-OPN is a short scale acoustic bass guitar that utilizes a parlor body shape. This compact instrument is ideal for situations such as playing on the couch, outdoors, as well as more informal occasions. However the PBN14E is also a valuable on stage tool. Since the 25in short scale is similar in feel to a regular guitar, it is more comfortable for both guitarists and electric bassists to play than a full size acoustic bass. The shorter scale and compact parlor body also make it a more user-friendly platform for beginners.

Despite the compact body size, the PBN14E-OPN has an impressively powerful acoustic volume. The "open pore" finish as well as the Mahogany top, back, and sides contribute greatly to the overall tone. The neck joint being located at the 12th fret means the bridge connects at the center of the lower bout, which maximizes sonic resonance.

The "open pore" finish creates a more vintage feel, allowing the natural texture of the wood to be felt. The satin finish of the Mahogany neck helps facilitate fast and smooth position changes. The Ibanez Under Saddle Pickup accurately reproduces the acoustic nature of the bass, while the Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp provides the extra punch of on-board EQ, and the convenience of an easy-to-read digital tuner located on the upper bout.

It would seem that this was built as an inexpensive answer to the Taylor mini-bass that is more than twice the price. This will work for me in the studio (my current bass has issues) and I am hoping I might be able to get Carol to play it.
 
I tried out the Taylor model, though not plugged in. My take is that it wouldn't do real well unplugged as it wouldn't be that loud, but it was very playable, especially for a non-bass player like me. I am willing to take a chance on this, especially since I could return it if it doesn't work out.
 
Well, I placed the order today and should have it my mid-week next week. If it is anything like the Taylor, it will be a nice addition to the studio and much easier on my hands. Even the short-scale bass is quite a stretch, and I have some arthritis in the hands that I deal with. Also, I'd like to see if Carol would become my bass player.
 
So far, I'm loving it. I am not impressed with the on board tuner, but it sounds nice unplugged, is easy to play, and looks real nice. Carol also likes it, so we will see what happens there. I'll take it to the studio later and plug it in. I just recorded a new song and haven't done the bass yet, so I'll use this one.
 
I was about to make a post asking if anyone had bought a travel bass! Has it got steel strings, or carbon?

Nice song btw. The synth pad adds a nice underwater touch :)
 
Gary Blanchard said:
It has steel strings and it is a joy to play for a non-bass player like me.
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I tried one with carbon strings, they felt so smooth. It seemed worth the £350 price tag, considering it was electric acoustic. It would be an awesome thing to bust out on the streets, walking past someone busking, and BAM! Join in the fun.
 
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