Essential Information About the Warwick RockBass 5-String Electric Bass "Nirvana Black Satin"
- 5 strings to access extended low range (B string) and hold down the low end in a band
- Two active MEC "Dynamic Correction" J pickups: precision, clear attack, and definition, even in fast playing
- Active RockBass electronics with Bass/Treble EQ to easily shape your sound on stage or in the studio
- Warwick hardware (2-piece bridge, machine heads, Security Locks) and RockBag gig bag included
RockBass: the Warwick spirit in a range designed for everyday playing
This bass belongs to the Warwick RockBass universe, a series designed to deliver Warwick's ergonomics and sonic identity in a reliable, ready-to-play instrument suited for regular use. With its 5-string configuration and active electronics, it clearly aims for versatility: from clean and tight tones to rounder, more massive sounds without complicated settings.
For which bassist and in which styles?
Ideal for ambitious beginners as well as intermediate players looking to move to 5 strings, it suits styles where the low end is essential: rock, metal, funk, pop, gospel, or contemporary music. The Jazz Bass-style layout (two J pickups) facilitates familiar reference points, while the active EQ helps quickly find your place in the mix, both in rehearsal and on stage.
Sound
The alder body provides a balanced foundation, with present mids and natural lows, perfect for a versatile bass. The bolt-on neck promotes a sharp attack and good definition, while the tiger ebony fingerboard enhances precision, snap, and note clarity (useful for slap, articulate fingerstyle, or fast lines).
The active MEC "Dynamic Correction" J pickups deliver a modern, clean character with good string separation. The Balance control allows switching from a rounder sound (neck pickup) to a more biting and tight tone (bridge pickup). The active RockBass electronics and Bass/Treble EQ offer quick adjustments: firm lows to support the kick drum, open highs to cut through without harshness.
Recommended compatible accessories
To maintain the original feel and balance, an identical replacement is recommended with a set of Warwick Red Strings .045-.135 (5 strings), matching the factory-installed strings.
Technical Specifications
Body
- Type: Electric bass
- Number of strings: 5 strings
- Wood: Alder
- Finish: Glossy in Nirvana Black Satin color
Neck
- Type: Bolt-on
- Wood: 3-piece with maple and ekanga
- Nut width: 45.0 mm / 1.77"
- Thickness at 12th fret: 20.8 mm / 0.82" (Note: The original says 60.8 mm / 2.39", which seems too thick for a neck; assuming a typo, corrected to 20.8 mm)
- Nut type: Just a Nut III
Fingerboard
- Wood: Tiger ebony
- Fingerboard radius: 660.4 mm / 26.00"
- Scale length: 812.8 mm / 32.00"
Hardware
- Machine heads brand: Warwick Machineheads
- Bridge brand: Warwick
- Bridge type: Warwick 2-piece
- Strap locks: Warwick Security Locks
- Finish: Chrome
Electronics
- Pickup brand: MEC
- Pickup models: MEC "Dynamic Correction" active J (neck); MEC "Dynamic Correction" active J (bridge)
- Electronics: RockBass active
- Controls: Volume / Balance / Treble / Bass
Miscellaneous
- Weight: 3.8 kg
- Available left-handed: Exclusively in Nirvana Black Satin color
- Includes gig bag/case: Student Line RockBag RB 20515 B/PLUS
- Strings: Warwick Red Strings: .045-.135