Sandberg California II VM 5 PF MR HG
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Sandberg
California II VM 5 PF MR HG
Product Info
Article Number:
559567
Brand:
Sandberg
Model:
California II VM 5 PF MR HG
Category:
5-String P-Basses
Price:
$2,253.90
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
This Sandberg California II is a seriously well-built 5-string that nails that P-bass vibe with a modern twist. The split-coil pickup adds a unique edge, and the active/passive electronics give you a lot of tonal flexibility. It's a premium-priced option ideal for gigging musicians needing a reliable, versatile workhorse bass with a touch of German engineering.
Product Description
- Sandberg California II VM 5 PF MR HG
- 5-String Electric Bass
- Body: Alder
- Bolt-on neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Fingerboard inlays: white dots
- Fingerboard radius: 356 mm (14")
- Nut width: 45 mm (1.77)
- Scale: 864 mm (34")
- 22 Frets
- Pickups: 1 Sandberg precision split coil (neck) and 1 Sandberg humbucker (bridge)
- Electronics: 2-band EQ active/passive
- Controls: master volume
- balance
- treble
- bass
- Black pickguard
- Machine heads: Sandberg lightweight
- Chrome hardware
- Colour: Metallic Red
- Incl. bag
- Made in Germany
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a warm, resonant foundation for the tone.
- • Sandberg’s split-coil/humbucker combo offers versatility and growl.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and easy playability.
- • Pau Ferro fingerboard adds a touch of exotic feel and brightness.
CONS
- • Metallic Red finish might not appeal to all tastes – a bit flashy.
- • Bolt-on construction, while responsive, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • 2-band EQ is relatively basic compared to more modern, complex systems.
Product Video
Key Features
Body Material
Alder
Neck Material
Maple
Fingerboard
Pau Ferro
Pickups
Sandberg precision split coil (neck) / Sandberg humbucker (bridge)
Scale Length
864 mm (34 in)
Frets
22
Strings
5-String
Weight
4.3 kg (9.5 lbs)
Similar Products
Manuel Rodriguez Superior Anniversario 120 J-SB
4/4 Size Classical Guitars
$1,099
Classical Guitar, Special model for the anniversary of Guitarras...
Taylor GS-Mini-e Sakuraburst
Folk Acoustic Guitars
$989
*Note:* Register your Taylor guitar to extend your warranty to 12 years.
Ibanez GRG320FA-TVT
ST Style Guitars
$439
Electric Guitar, Body: Poplar, Top: Basswood with Art Grain in flamed maple look, Bolt-on neck:...
Manuel Rodriguez Superior Flamenco Sabicas C3-F
Flamenco Guitars
$957
Flamenco Guitar, Top: Solid European Carpathian spruce, Back and...
Frequently Asked Questions
The split-coil offers a slightly more aggressive and defined sound with less muddiness, adding clarity and a touch more bite than a traditional P-bass pickup.
The bolt-on neck has a noticeably snappier feel and a quicker response compared to set-neck basses, which some players find more direct and easier to play, but others might prefer a different feel.
The active EQ requires a standard 9V battery, and battery life is generally quite good, lasting several months with regular use; battery replacement is straightforward through a compartment on the back of the bass.
