Custom 1973 Aria / Stewart Violin Bass Matsumoku (Made In Japan)

Early 70's Matsumoku Violin Bass. Most of these seem to be made by Aria. This one is branded Stewart, and he's all set up and ready to play

- Short Scale 30" neck made from 3-piece Eastern Mahogany
- Laminated fully-hollow violin shaped body in 3-tone sunburst
- Maxon "Staple" humbuckers produce a deep, throaty growl
- Fully serviced all-original electronics, frets, and hardware
- Strung with flat-wound D'Addario Chrome Short Scale Strings

This is a really cool bass, and it has surprisingly good tone and playability. The neck profile is narrow but comfortable, like a cross between a Mosrite Combo and a Univox Hi-Flyer. It sounds amazing, thanks to the monster pickups

Frets are in good shape, with only a slight buzz around the 12th to 14th frets. Tuners have been cleaned and re-greased for smooth operation. G string tuner grommet is missing (pictured). Neck is straight and truss rod functions. Rosewood bridge just like the real thing, and some of the coolest fret markers to come from Matsumoku

Body has it's share of nicks and scratches, but nothing too bad. Body binding is shrinking slightly but the top is still firmly attached and not rattling. Neck plate has one screw that was drilled off-center at birth, so I added a washer to make a firm connection (pictured). Back plate was missing, so I made a temporary one from cardboard, don't laugh. I'm in the process of fabricating a real one from this template

My only complaint is the neck dive on this bass must be experienced to truly believe it. Anybody who's played a Hofner knows the struggle

Accepting offers on this awesome little boomstick, thanks for shopping

Product Specs

Condition:Very Good Make:Aria / Stewart Model:Violin Bass Finish:3 Tone Sunburst Categories:Short Scale Year:1973 Made In:Japan