25th Anniversary HSS 5-string vs Reflex HSS 5-string

[Stflbn]

Ready to pull the trigger (or start the search for the right model/color/weight) for one of these.

Are there any difference between these two other than the fancy top on the 25th anniversary models?

 

[jlepre]

Well the 25th is out of production, so the price would probaby have to be used. Other than that, there is no difference. I bought my 25th new just a few months ago, but I don't know if there are any still available NEW.

 

[J Romano]

I believe there is a new 25th locally here at a guitar store. Not sure of the config. Can look into it if you are interested.

 

[Manfloozy]

No difference other than finish, fancy top, headstock logo and collectibility.

Either is a fantastic choice!

 

[keko]

No difference other than finish, fancy top, headstock logo and collectibility.

Either is a fantastic choice!

+1

 

[Stflbn]

Agreed on either being a fantastic choice. I'm just looking for a versatile tone option in contrast to my old beat up and heavily modded (before I got it) SR5.

 

[projectapollo]

I'll put a plug in for Manfloozy's 25th BFR he has listed for sale. Its one of 25 made with the all rosewood neck for the price of a new Reflex. Grab it. But it is a 4-string. Think you may be looking for a 5.

 

[Stflbn]

Yup, 5-string only for me... and really set on a HSS or SSS configuration, just would prefer to be able to still get a decent example of a true Musicman sound out of bass also. Still researching how close something like a Big Al 5 SSS can do a standard 1 pickup SR5 type vibe.

So for versatility of tone's sake I guess I should be considering a Big-Al5 also.

 

[laneline]

The only other minor cosmetic differences are the dots, the maple board 25th has white pearl dots with a black ring and the rosewood boards are a pearl sans rings. Tonally they must be the same. Here is a link to Bass Central in case you aren't familiar with them: Musicman 25th Anniversary Bass and Guitars
You have to call them as they keep stock up even after they are sold. I didn't get mine from them but I have bought a bass many moons ago from Beaver, who is outstanding to deal with as many here know.
Ether version are incredible basses, good luck in your quest.

 

[Stflbn]

I've talked to both Bass Central and Perfect Bass thusfar. Sadly Bass Central had an HSS 25th 5-string they'd been trying to get rid of for some time and it sold :: gasp :: a week or so ago.

Can you get Roasted necks on Reflex basses?

.

 

[Manfloozy]

Can you get Roasted necks on Reflex basses?

.

You could have, but the ordering window has come and gone. There might have been one orders for stock though. Give a call to CUstomer Service, they can tell you if it exists or not, and if so where. Good luck!

 

[bassmonkeee]

Yup, 5-string only for me... and really set on a HSS or SSS configuration, just would prefer to be able to still get a decent example of a true Musicman sound out of bass also. Still researching how close something like a Big Al 5 SSS can do a standard 1 pickup SR5 type vibe.

So for versatility of tone's sake I guess I should be considering a Big-Al5 also.

I don't have much playing time with an SSS Big Al, but it is my understanding that the SSS with all pickup buttons up (mid and bridge in series) gets a credible "classic MM sound." At least as close as the Reflex HSS with the humbucker closer to the bridge than on a Stingray or a Sterling. And, in a band setting, it'll certainly get you where you want to go.

 

[syciprider]

+1
All buttons up = decent Sterling
Bridge + Middle = decent Ray.

 

[Stflbn]

I think I'm gravitating toward a Big Al 5. If I do that I think I'll keep looking for a 25th anniversary MM, but will likely go with an HH to get the humbucker in the typical MM position... and of course, I still keep telling myself I need a Bongo. :-0

.

 

[keko]

I think I'm gravitating toward a Big Al 5. If I do that I think I'll keep looking for a 25th anniversary MM, but will likely go with an HH to get the humbucker in the typical MM position... and of course, I still keep telling myself I need a Bongo. :-0

.

Exactly my thoughts before I ordered my Reflex 5 HH!

 

[Stflbn]

Just checking in to say I ordered a Sapphire Black Big Al 5 today which should be here day after tomorrow. Once I get accustomed to it I'll chime back in with my feelings on how it captures the older MM vibe on certain settings.

And according to the Big Al Bass Control Function Diagram

All buttons up = decent Sterling = coils 2 + 1 (series)
Bridge + Middle = decent Ray = coils 2 & 1 (parallel)

 

[Stflbn]

Following up again after a couple months with my Big Al 5.
I'm still amazed by the versatility in tone and vibe of this bass. It can do so many different things well, and then there's the whole passive/active functionality that adds a whole different layer of versatility to each of it's tonal options.

Best gear purchase i've made in a long time.