Charvel introduce new Pro-Mod San Dimas bass guitars

Words by Will Brewster

Bringing back the '80s in a big way.

For those who like their basses to look as loud as they sound, Charvel have launched a flash new range of Pro-Mod San Dimas models, fusing contemporary features with retro aesthetics in spectacular fashion.

Check out all the latest in Product News here.

Available in two different variants – the four-string PJ IV and a five-string JJ V – the range takes inspiration from classic hot-rodded bass designs of the ’80s, as made famous by the likes of Guns ‘n Roses bassist Duff McKagan.

With a sleek, elongated alder body based on the initial San Dimas basses from the late ’70s, the Pro-Mod San Dimas Bass PJ IV offers a super-thin caramelised maple neck with Luminlay side-dots to make for a glorious feel up and down the neck, with a 12″ – 16″ compound radius caramelised maple fretboard only helping to enhance the playing experience further.

The bass is also loaded with twin DiMarzio pickups, including a Model J in the bridge and a split-coil Model P in the middle position to tap into thumping low-end tones and growling mid-range.

A sophisticated array of electronics – namely an active three-band EQ and pickup blend control – help to bolster the San Dimas PJ IV’s tonal palate even more, while a Charvel HiMass bridge, Graph tech TUSQ XL nut and open-gear tuners allow for superior sustain and tuning stability.

With other appointments including chrome hardware and cream pickup coverings, these San Dimas PJ IV basses are available in two stunning finishes: the vibrant Lime Green Metallic, and a cool-looking Mystic Blue.

For those who prefer to run a five-string rig, Charvel’s Pro-Mod San Dimas JJ IV basses look to provide a superior solution, offering a deep-cutaway alder body with a super-thin bolt-on caramelised maple neck and 12 – 16″ compound radius fretboard with graphite reinforcement and a heel-mount truss rod wheel for easy adjustments.

In the pickup department, the bass boasts two DiMarzio Jazz Bass pickups, with an Area J DP551 in the bridge and an Area J DP550 in the middle position.

An active three-band EQ, master volume and pickup blend unlock a broad spectrum of tones, with a HiMass bridge, Graph Tech TUSQ XL nut and open-gear tuners increase the overall tone, tuning stability and sustain of the bass.

Available to order now, the Pro-Mod San Dimas JJ IV is up for grabs in two vibrant finishes: Lambo Green Metallic (vroom!) and classic Candy Apple Red.