Sandberg California TM5 Supreme Highgloss Black 5-String Bass

General

Sandberg has given the California series a facelift. The shape of the TM5 Supreme has been subtly redesigned, giving it better balance. The California TM5 Supreme is a modern version of the classic J Bass and for a handmade 5-string bass, the price is very reasonable. Thanks to many custom options, the TM5 Supreme is available in a range of different versions. This particular model has a high-gloss black finish with matching headstock, a black perloid pickguard and a rosewood fretboard with white pearloid block inlays. The TM5 Supreme comes complete with a sturdy Sandberg gig bag.

Sandberg California TM5 Supreme: A Broad Range of Sounds

Beneath the black lacquer is a body made of solid alder which is light in weight and produces a rich, balanced sound. The neck is made of Canadian maple and bolted on to the body using six screws for optimal stability. To make the TM5 Supreme as versatile as possible, it's fitted with a J-style single-coil and a Stingray-style humbucker. With a mini-switch, it's possible to turn the humbucker at the bridge into a single-coil for a lovely low growl. Even more versatility comes from the TM5 Supreme's active 2-band EQ that lets you boost or filter the low and high frequencies. The active EQ can be made passive by pulling up on the volume knob.

A Modern Bass

Sandberg has given the TM5 several modern outstanding features. There's a zero fret next to the string nut, so that the open strings produce the same sound as fretted ones. A highly practical feature is the ability to adjust the bridge saddles in three different directions for accurate intonation, string height adjustment and string spacing. The resistance of the machine heads can also be adjusted, and there's a unique string tree for the A, D and G strings to ensure optimal pressure on the string nut.

• Please note: as of 15 March 2015, the California TM series features a redesigned body that differs from the standard J-Bass model.