【used】Fodera / pre-1993 NYC EMPIRE 4st NAT 4.070kg #00392【GIB Yokohama】

Fodera is one of the world's most popular high-end bass guitar brands.

Founder Vinny Fodera began his career as a teenager.
After working at prestigious workshops like Spector and Ken Smith, he founded Fodera Guitars in 1983.

Their products are loved by the world's top bass players, including Victor Wooten, Richard Bona, and Anthony Jackson. (Titles omitted)

This bass is a prototype NYC Empire bass produced before 1993.
The headstock features only a handwritten-looking NYC logo.

We asked Vinny Fodera to review a photo of this bass, and he confirmed that this is likely one of the first NYC basses made by him and fellow founder Joey Lauricella.

As such, we've listed the bass as being made in the USA.

While we can't be certain, the specifications match many of the early models produced after 1993.

Specifically, it features a HAZ Lab preamp, a flat-head truss rod nut (rather than a cross), flared frets, a bolt-on joint with a plate, and other features such as the shape and knob position.

Based on these features, we've determined that this is a NYC EMPIRE made before 1993.

The body is made of ash, with a maple neck and maple fingerboard, a classic wood construction.
It can essentially be said to be a tribute to late-'70s Fenders.

The bridge is made by Schaller.
This is also consistent with early models, but there are traces of screws underneath the bridge that appear to have been re-drilled.

Please note that we cannot determine whether this is a later replacement or a design change.

The pickups are Bartolini.
Early models used Lane Poor pickups, so this may have also been replaced. (The earliest Foderas also used Bartolini pickups, so it's difficult to say for sure.)

The preamp is a 2-band preamp made by HAZ Lab.
The low end is powerful and the treble has a distorted overtone, producing an appealing sound reminiscent of an old preamp.

While it has the traditional texture of a JB, it also has the straight, clear sound that is characteristic of a Fodera.

This guitar is appealing with its thick low end, crisp treble, and organic texture.

It's a rare model, and the sound is first-rate.

Approximately 70% of the frets remain.
The truss rod is stiff, but has been confirmed to move about 90 degrees.
The neck is in good condition.
There are occasional dents and scratches on the body and paint.
The electrical system is in good condition.

Controls: Master Volume, Balancer, Bass, Treble
Nut Width: 38.8mm
Bridge String Spacing: 19.0mm
Scale: 34"
Year of Manufacture: Before 1993
Country of Manufacture: USA

This instrument is set up using SIT Strings, favored by many professional artists.
They are characterized by stable tuning and a powerful, three-dimensional sound. Enjoy!

GIB craftsmen will adjust the instrument for optimal playability before delivery.

Accessories: Hard case

Text: Tatsuma Terao

Inspector: Terao
Product Photos: Miura

GIB 3-Month Warranty

◯About the GIB TONIQ Warranty

●Lifetime Free Maintenance

Instruments purchased from our store qualify for lifetime free "string vibration setup" (normally ¥4,400). (Reservation required)

・Please present your signed warranty card.
・This offer is only available to the original purchaser at a GIB or TONIQ physical store or online shop.
・Please note that shipping and other related costs are the responsibility of the purchaser.

●Repurchase Price Guarantee

If you sell your purchased item within six months of purchase, we guarantee the repurchase price. This guarantee is 50% for new items and 70% for used items.

●Defect Guarantee

All products sold by Basic Co., Ltd. are guaranteed against defects. With the exception of some consignment items, we will repair any malfunctions that occur under normal use within the warranty period from the date of purchase free of charge (returns and refunds will only be accepted if repairs are not possible).

The warranty period is three months for used items and one year for new items.

Please note that even within the warranty period, there will be a fee for repairs in the following cases:

・Failure or damage caused by transportation, movement, dropping, etc.
・Replacement of consumables.
・Failure or damage caused by fire, earthquake, salt damage, gas damage, or abnormal voltage.
・Failure or damage caused by handling that violates the instructions in the instruction manual.
- If the part is broken or damaged after being repaired or modified by someone other than us.
- If the name, model name, serial number, etc. are not written on the warranty card, or if the wording has been altered.
- If the warranty card is not presented or lost.

(Warranty is only available for purchases made in Japan.)

● Get up to 15% off with a trade-in

Get a 10% discount on your purchase when you use our trade-in service. (Consignment items are not eligible. Only applicable if the trade-in value is 15% or more of the total purchase price.)

In addition, if you trade in an instrument eligible for our monthly buy-back campaign, you will receive a 15% discount.

We will ship with sufficient packaging.
We ship internationally.

Contact Information

LINE: vwj2699r
Email: info@bassick.jp
TEL: 045-594-7308

●Price includes VAT & Duties & Shipping Fee
Free Shipping Worldwide. All import duties and taxes are included in the price. There are no hidden fees upon delivery.

If you return a product, you will be responsible for all shipping and customs fees.

Note: All electronic devices, such as effect pedals and amplifiers, are set for use in Japan.
Please be sure to check the voltage and power specifications of your country before purchasing and using.

Contact Information

LINE: vwj2699r
Email: info@bassick.jp
TEL: 045 594 7308