A Compact Bass with a Full-Size Attitude
This Kala UBASS-SB-TB-FS review takes a closer look at a compact bass that combines U•BASS portability with the familiar feel and sound of a traditional electric bass.
The Tobacco Burst finish gives this model a classic appearance. Meanwhile, its solid body construction, steel round wound strings, and passive split-coil pickup move it closer to the traditional electric bass experience than many acoustic U•BASS models.
Solid Okoume Construction
Kala builds the UBASS-SB-TB-FS with an okoume top and solid okoume body. The gloss Tobacco Burst finish adds a vintage-inspired look, while the white single-ply pickguard provides a sharp contrast.
Additionally, the bass uses a maple neck paired with a laurel fingerboard. Mother-of-pearl fingerboard inlays help players navigate all 22 frets while adding a subtle visual upgrade.
Passive Split-Coil Pickup
Kala equips this solid body U•BASS with a passive split-coil pickup. Its simple volume and tone controls keep operation straightforward, without batteries or complicated onboard electronics.
The pickup produces the punch and definition expected from magnetic bass pickups. In fact, Kala describes the sound as balanced yet punchy, while owner reviews frequently note that the instrument sounds much larger than its compact dimensions suggest.
Simple Tone Controls
The volume knob handles overall output, while the tone control lets you shape the high-frequency response. Rolling it back can produce a warmer, more subdued bass sound.
On the other hand, opening the tone control brings out additional attack and definition from the round wound strings. Consequently, the bass can cover a useful range of tones without adding unnecessary controls.
Adjustable Four-Saddle Bridge
The black top-loaded bridge includes four individually adjustable saddles. Therefore, each string can be adjusted independently for intonation and action during a proper setup.
Kala also includes a spoke-wheel truss rod for neck adjustments. Combined with the adjustable bridge, this gives players several ways to dial in the instrument to suit their preferred playing feel.
Compact Without Feeling Like a Toy
At only 33.25 inches overall, the UBASS-SB-TB-FS is considerably easier to transport than many traditional bass guitars. Its body is only 15.12 inches long and 1.5 inches deep.
However, this is still a substantial solid body instrument. At approximately 5.5 pounds, it has enough weight to feel like a genuine electric bass rather than an oversized ukulele.
Key Features
The UBASS-SB-TB-FS packs traditional electric bass features into its unusually compact design. Highlights include:
- 23.5-inch scale length
- Solid okoume body
- Maple neck
- Laurel fingerboard
- 22 frets
- Kala Round Wound strings
- Passive split-coil pickup
- Volume and tone controls
- Four-saddle adjustable bridge
- 1:18 ratio closed-gear bass tuners
- Standard E-A-D-G tuning
Black Bass Hardware
Kala uses black hardware throughout much of the instrument. The bridge, closed-gear tuners, and two strap buttons complement the darker edges of the Tobacco Burst finish.
The tuners have an 18:1 gear ratio, which allows for controlled tuning adjustments. Meanwhile, two strap buttons make the instrument ready for standing performances without requiring additional hardware installation.
Comfortable for Different Players
The compact scale makes this U•BASS particularly interesting for players who find a 34-inch bass cumbersome. Younger musicians, guitarists, ukulele players, and bassists with smaller hands may appreciate the reduced reach.
At the same time, experienced bassists may enjoy it as a portable practice, rehearsal, or performance instrument. Its magnetic pickup and metal strings also provide a familiar transition from a conventional electric bass.
How Does It Compare to an Acoustic U•BASS?
The UBASS-SB-TB-FS offers a noticeably different experience from Kala's acoustic-electric U•BASS models. Instead of an acoustic body and thick polyurethane-style strings, this model uses solid body construction and round wound metal strings.
Therefore, the attack and string response feel more like a traditional electric bass. Players who like the compact U•BASS concept but prefer conventional bass strings may find this solid body design particularly appealing.
Kala UBASS-SB-TB-FS Measurements
Despite its compact dimensions, the instrument provides a full 22-fret playing range.
- Scale Length: 23.5 inches
- Instrument Weight: Approximately 5.5 lbs.
- Overall Length: 33.25 inches
- Body Length: 15.12 inches
- Frets: 22
- Upper Bout Width: 8.25 inches
- Lower Bout Width: 10.25 inches
- Body Depth: 1.5 inches
Things to Consider
Players coming from a traditional acoustic U•BASS should expect a different string feel. Round wound strings have more tension and a different attack than the polyurethane-style strings found on many U•BASS models.
Likewise, its 5.5-pound weight is worth considering if your main goal is the lightest possible instrument. Although compact, the solid construction gives this bass more substance than its dimensions might suggest.
Who Is This U•BASS For?
The UBASS-SB-TB-FS works especially well for players who want the portability of a U•BASS without moving too far away from a conventional electric bass.
Beginners can benefit from the manageable scale, while experienced players may appreciate having a compact instrument for rehearsals, gigs, travel, and practice. It is also an interesting option for guitar and ukulele players adding bass to their musical skills.
Final Thoughts on the Kala UBASS-SB-TB-FS
The Kala UBASS-SB-TB-FS Tobacco Burst Solid Body Fretted U•BASS finds an appealing middle ground between the traditional electric bass and Kala's compact U•BASS concept.
Its 23.5-inch scale, round wound strings, passive split-coil pickup, and adjustable bridge deliver familiar bass characteristics in a much smaller package. Meanwhile, the Tobacco Burst finish gives it a timeless appearance.
For musicians who want serious electric bass functionality without the size of a full-scale instrument, the UBASS-SB-TB-FS is a compelling option. It is compact, straightforward, distinctive, and backed by Kala's one-year limited warranty.
Get the Kala UBASS-SB-TB-FS Tobacco Burst Solid Body Fretted U•BASS HERE
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