The BB 4000 II Mid: A Comprehensive Guide to Teisco's Legendary Bass

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a Japanese-made electric bass guitar that was produced from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. It is known for its distinctive "mid-boost" circuit, which gives it a unique and powerful sound. The BB 4000 II Mid was used by many famous bass players, including James Jamerson, Larry Graham, and Bootsy Collins.

History

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid was first introduced in 1966. It was one of the first Japanese-made electric bass guitars to be exported to the United States. The BB 4000 II Mid quickly became popular with bass players due to its unique sound and affordable price.

In the late 1960s, the BB 4000 II Mid was used by many of the most famous bass players in the world. James Jamerson, the legendary bassist for Motown Records, used a BB 4000 II Mid on many of his classic recordings. Larry Graham, the bassist for Sly and the Family Stone, also used a BB 4000 II Mid. Bootsy Collins, the bassist for James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic, used a BB 4000 II Mid on many of his most famous recordings.

The BB 4000 II Mid was discontinued in the early 1970s. However, it remains a popular bass guitar among collectors and musicians.

Design

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a solid-body electric bass guitar with a bolt-on neck. The body is made of mahogany and the neck is made of maple. The BB 4000 II Mid has a 34-inch scale length and a 20-fret rosewood fingerboard.

The BB 4000 II Mid is equipped with two single-coil pickups and a mid-boost circuit. The mid-boost circuit gives the BB 4000 II Mid a unique and powerful sound. The bass can be used for a variety of genres, from rock to funk to soul.

Sound

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid has a unique and powerful sound. The bass has a deep, resonant low end and a clear, articulate high end. The mid-boost circuit gives the bass a distinctive "growl" that is perfect for funk and soul music.

The BB 4000 II Mid is a versatile bass that can be used for a variety of genres. The bass is perfect for players who want a powerful and unique sound.

Value

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a valuable bass guitar. The bass is rare and collectible, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find. The value of a BB 4000 II Mid can vary depending on its condition and provenance. However, a good condition BB 4000 II Mid can sell for $2,000 or more.

Conclusion

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a legendary bass guitar that is known for its unique and powerful sound. The bass was used by many of the most famous bass players in the world, and it remains a popular bass guitar among collectors and musicians today.

Stories

James Jamerson

James Jamerson was one of the most influential bass players in history. He played on countless classic recordings for Motown Records, including "My Girl" by The Temptations and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye. Jamerson used a Teisco BB 4000 II Mid on many of his recordings. He loved the bass's deep, resonant low end and clear, articulate high end.

Larry Graham

Larry Graham is another legendary bass player. He is known for his innovative use of the slap and pop technique. Graham used a Teisco BB 4000 II Mid on many of his recordings with Sly and the Family Stone. He loved the bass's powerful mid-range and distinctive "growl."

Bootsy Collins

Bootsy Collins is one of the most iconic bass players in funk music. He is known for his outrageous personality and his unique style of playing. Collins used a Teisco BB 4000 II Mid on many of his recordings with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic. He loved the bass's deep, funky sound and its ability to cut through the mix.

What We Can Learn

What can we learn from these stories?

• The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a legendary bass guitar that was used by some of the greatest bass players of all time.
• The BB 4000 II Mid has a unique and powerful sound that is perfect for funk, soul, and rock music.
• The BB 4000 II Mid is a valuable bass guitar that is becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Effective Strategies

If you are looking for a Teisco BB 4000 II Mid, there are a few effective strategies you can use:

• Check online auction sites.
• Contact vintage guitar dealers.
• Attend guitar shows.

Be patient and persistent. It may take some time to find a BB 4000 II Mid, but it is worth the effort.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks for getting the most out of your Teisco BB 4000 II Mid:

• Use a fresh set of strings.
• Adjust the pickup height.
• Experiment with different EQ settings.
• Play with a pick or your fingers.
• Have fun!

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique and powerful sound
• Versatile
• Collectible

Cons:

• Rare and difficult to find
• Can be expensive

Comparison Table

Conclusion

The Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a legendary bass guitar that is known for its unique and powerful sound. The bass was used by many of the most famous bass players in the world, and it remains a popular bass guitar among collectors and musicians today. If you are looking for a bass guitar with a unique and powerful sound, the Teisco BB 4000 II Mid is a great option.