The ABZ series combines multiscale technology with a sleek, streamlined body shape that makes for a perfect introduction to the Dingwall Custom Shop. A serious option for any working bassist in the market for a versatile instrument that’s geared towards a modern sound, the ABZ has the power and versatility to deliver more or less whatever is asked of it. Available In: 4, 5 or 6-strings, 2 or 3-pickups, active or passive electronics, with your pick from a wide range of available finishes.
Prized for its workability, the ABZ has been smoothly contoured and shaped so that it retains a thin profile. The body is comprised of swamp ash and combined with a bolt-on five-piece maple neck. The ABZ has slim frets, a feature that was introduced to Dingwall by Lee Sklar. The benefits of thinner frets are a ‘more woody, less metallic tone, smoother glissandos and a faster feel’. The ABZ bass comes with standard ‘banjo’ frets – which are the same size as what you would find on most guitars from the 50s and 60s.
“A serious contender for anyone looking for a top-end instrument that not only looks amazing but can deliver the goods in any situation as well.”
The ABZ utilizes our FDV pickup configuration, which offers a well rounded range of bass tones. These are passive pickups wired to our 4-position Quad-tone pickup selector, with an optional active EQ from Darkglass, Rupert Neve Designs, or Trickfish. There’s also the option of configuring each pickup in series or parallel mode via individual mini switches. In terms of sounds and playability, the ABZ could comfortably sit in with any genre.
The fanned-fret system was designed by Ralph Novak to facilitate the most appropriate scale length for each individual string. It’s a pioneering concept that’s applied across the whole of the Dingwall range. The remaining hardware includes a set of Hipshot® USA Ultralite machine heads, a Neutrik locking jack socket and our Minimalist bridge, which centers around a unique baseplate system that holds the saddles securely in place.
Dingwall strings have been meticulously tested to maximize performance and deliver a tone that blends effortlessly with any style of music. We were the first company to design strings specifically for multi-scale instruments. Available in both nickel and stainless steel, our strings provide an even tension for optimal balance, letting you experience the warmest highs and the tightest lows possible.
Note: basses are shipped with Dingwall Nickel Strings
