Sabre Questions

[BobKos]

Hi All:

I'm going to look at a Sabre this afternoon. I don't have the opportunity to check many of these in hand - in fact never till this time. I've never played one. I'm intrigued by it though. It seems to be a better match for my musical taste than my current SR4-H. The instrument available to me is a later Sabre ('88-ish).

I see lots of references to pre-EB Sabres and how wonderful they are. I can see certain differences such as the bridge type, pickup covers ( or more?), different switch orientation, and neck screw count exist between earlier and later models.

I am wondering how much of a REAL difference there is? Does anybody own both that can say that there is a significant difference for the better with a pre-EB instrument compared to an EB labeled instrument?

The price of pre-EB instruments puts them out of my immediate reach. If I ever get there, I would probably have to buy over the internet due to rarity. Would it really be worth the 100% difference in price for otherwise equal quality instruments? Or is the premium more of a collectibility issue than a quality issue.

I recall Fender instruments from the 70's and would NEVER pay the premiums they now demand. I am wondering if the same pattern is developing with the 70's MM products?

Please share your thoughts.

 

[Bobbo 77]

Órale BobKos,
I'm also looking to score a Sabre, a Pre, in the near future..... but I've been told the 2 Humbucker Sr or Sterling MIGHT do the trick! But for me, I got's to get a Sabre! Good-luck Vato!

 

[BobKos]

Órale BobKos,
I'm also looking to score a Sabre, a Pre, in the near future.....
<SNIP>

This is what I'm talking about. What do you know that makes you want a pre-EB instrument. Is it collectibility? Tone? Playability? Is it really worth the premium for the pre-EB instrument? If so, I may not pursue the EB instrument I have access to and hold out for a better bass in the pre-EB market.

 

[strummer]

Hi

I like the Sabre!

But I would definitely opt for a slightly used Sterling HH, which to me is the closest match to the sabre.

If you indeed get a Sabre, be adviced that the prices for the earlier ones are due to some grade of collectablility, as the newer (EB) stuff is much more consistent in quality. Not to say that you can't find a great playing Pre-EB Sabre, but getting you a later one means you'll most certainly get a good instrument.

 

[Bobbo 77]

Yo' BobKos,
For me, I'm partial toward's the the Pre-Ernie Basses. I know the Present day EB's are more consistent in all phases on construction, parts, wood's, neck's electronics, ect....BUT, I LOVE older Musicman Basses! That tone, and feel, is what feels and sound's right for me. Maybe I'm showin' my age, but I own both MM and EB basses, and I prefer my 77' Hand's down!

 

[Caca de Kick]

Bob,
I would highly suggest going and trying out that '88 Sabre. Check for the originality of the bass, and really consider it if it sounds fabulous and everything is complete on it. If it's a 2eq model, then the tone will be consistant with a vintage one...it isn't a "real" big difference like you're asking. If you love the sound, do it.

 

[Bobbo 77]

Bob,
I would highly suggest going and trying out that '88 Sabre. Check for the originality of the bass, and really consider it if it sounds fabulous and everything is complete on it. If it's a 2eq model, then the tone will be consistant with a vintage one...it isn't a "real" big difference like you're asking. If you love the sound, do it.

nuff' said!

 

[mrpackerguy]

Nothing wrong with a pre-EB Sabre. I love mine. Never played an EB Sabre, but I would bet that the fine folks at EB took the Sabre and only improved upon it. Ergo...check both out.