Ibanez UB805 5-string Electric Upright Bass – Mahogany Oil Burst

Easy playability

The U805’s easy playability will be a breath of fresh air for bass players coming from a traditional acoustic upright. The U805’s compact wing body flares out only slightly from the neck join, which features a smooth, ergonomic heel. Together with a graceful lower-bout cutaway, this gives you unfettered upper-register access and thumb position will be needed only to reach the absolute highest notes. Moving to double bass can be a challenge for even the most accomplished bass guitarists; these players will experience a natural, seamless transition to the U805. The 5-string acoustic double bass is a rare beast that’s even more ungainly than its conventional 4-string counterpart. The Ibanez Bass Workshop U805 gives bassists the added range of a low B string, while remaining compact and easy to play.

AeroSilk piezo electronics

Ibanez custom designed the U805’s electronics package to deliver gorgeous, full-bodied tone. It sounds like an upright — only better. Indeed, it sits authentically in acoustic jazz arrangements; but unlike a traditional upright, it holds its own in a driving electric fusion track. That’s thanks to the instrument’s design, its tonewoods, and its specialized AeroSilk piezo electronics. The AeroSilk MR5 bridge’s unique saddles contain AeroSilk piezo pickup transducers that work in conjunction with the Piezo active tone control system. Customized for both plucking and arco playing, the system produces the airy quality that characterizes the upright sound. It outputs problem-free audio to an amp, PA system, audio interface, or recording console without the feedback issues of double basses fitted with mics or pickups.