For a while that you have played bass guitar or you are just beginning, you must have heard of Yamaha’s great reputation for producing top quality instruments.
One of the best beginner-friendly options among them is the Yamaha TRBX174.
This bass guitar has been quite popular due to its combination of affordability, quality and performance. Let us take a closer look at what makes this such a well sought after model.
Yamaha TRBX174 Review: First Impressions
The first time you lay your eyes on the Yamaha TRBX174, it is hard not to be impressed. Its sleek, contemporary design immediately grabs your attention. There are multiple attractive finishes to choose from including Black, Red Metallic and Old Violin Sunburst among others.
The body made from solid mahogany contributes not only to its aesthetic appeal but also its tonal qualities. Mahogany has a warm depth which serves as an excellent foundation for any bass sound.
Comfort and Playability
Its comfort is one of the things that set the TRBX174 apart. To make it very comfortable in playing especially when you are performing live or practicing for long hours at home; Yamaha designed this bass with slightly slimmer bodies and smoothly contoured necks.
The 34-inch scale length and 24-fret rosewood fingerboard provide plenty of space for both beginners as well as more advanced players to explore all notes without feeling restricted.
The neck itself is bolt-on maple neck which strikes a good balance between strength and flexiblity. This type of neck attachment is found on many bass guitars because it gives certain players “snap” and articulation they value most in many instruments.
The thinness of TRBX174’s neck profile allows it to be fast yet accessible by people with small hands but thick enough so as not feel flimsy or unsupportive.
Sound Quality
Talking about tone because ultimately that is where it is all at. The TRBX174 features a P/J pickup configuration which incorporates the best of both worlds.
The split single-coil P-style pickup in the neck position delivers that classic, punchy and full-bodied tone, perfect for rock, punk or any other styles that emphasizes on strong low end.
On the other hand, the J-style single-coil at the bridge has much brighter notes with greater definition so it suits funk, jazz and slap styles quite well.
These pickups will give you access to a large tonal palette. Volume and tone controls are simple but effective helping you to get just enough growl or warmth as required.
If you desire deep, pounding bass lines or crisp percussive slaps; TRBX174 will be able to deliver them.
Build Quality
The TRBX174 gives evidence of Yamaha quality control in its build quality. Just because this is an entry level model does not mean that there were any corners cut during manufacturing.
The fit and finish is immaculate with no rough spots or sloppy painting jobs. The hardware like die cast tuners and sturdy bridge feels solid and dependable.
Having mentioned about the bridge; it is worth noting that TRBX174 has vintage style bridging system as standard feature.
Simple but effective, providing good sustain and stability yet adjustable to some extend unlike some expensive bridges although they do their job well enough for this price point.
Versatility and Use Case
The TRBX174 is a jack of all trades. It has the ability to produce different sound tones, which makes it suitable for various genres. Consequently, in rock, jazz, funk or even metal music you will find that this bass guitar fits in well.
This is a considerable asset for beginners because you can try different styles without changing instruments.
The more advanced users will also appreciate the TRBX174 as an excellent backup bass or a reliable instrument for small gigs and rehearsals.
Besides being light weight and comfortable enough to play over extended periods, it’s built sturdy enough to handle regular usage.
Yamaha TRBX174 Review: Price and Value
One of the most remarkable aspects about Yamaha TRBX174 is its price tag. Rarely do you find such an inexpensive bass guitar at this level of quality.
For those who are just starting out but need something dependable, it serves as an excellent choice for them because they can get a great deal on it.
The best thing here is that it gives value for money and will give you long service period.
Final Thoughts
To conclude Yamaha TRBX174 is one exceptional entry-level bass guitar that performs way beyond its class.
It’s quite a fantastic option primarily due to how easily playable it is as well as its tone quality which makes it ideal for beginners.
However, any professional player searching for a reliable and relatively affordable instrument would not go wrong with this guitar too.
This is what makes playing TRBX174 so much fun – P/J pickup arrangement combined with easy neck access via solid construction efforts resulting in pure joy.
Either if someone wants to begin their journey with basses or perhaps they are looking forward to buying another good machine for their collection; I think Yamaha TRBX174 is one worth considering since one does not have to spend so much before buying a high standard sounding bass guitar.
