The John Taylor Signature Model enters its second generation, delivering show-stopping aesthetics to Taylor’s specifications. This version of the JT3 is offered in three premium finishes (Mercury Grey, Moon Silver, and Rose Gold), each complemented by a matching headstock and a stunning anodized aluminum pickguard.
On top of stunning looks and flawless construction, each bass offers wonderful playability and tones that display a rare clarity and refinement. “John’s bass playing with Duran Duran really imprinted on me how a bass should fit into a band mix,” says Sheldon Dingwall. “His basslines have always had a special combination of energy and elegance.”
The first run of the new JT3 features a lightweight Nyatoh body, with future production moving to Khaya as the model’s long-term body wood. Its bolt-on maple neck is paired with a Pau Ferro fretboard, and the “Rio Eye” inlay at the 12th fret delivers a subtle signature detail.
“This arrangement varies the strings’ scale length, meaning that the low B string benefits from maximum tension and feels great to play, with none of the dull-sounding flopping around that you get from a regular-scale 5-string.” Bass Player Magazine
The three Dingwall neodymium pickups are wired to a Quad-Tone pickup selector, a master volume, master tone and a 2-band active EQ that’s powered by a top-quality Rupert Neve Designs preamp. “Duran’s breakthrough single, the title track from 1982’s Rio, was originally recorded on a Neve console, so the history was already there,” says Sheldon. “But the team at Rupert Neve Designs absolutely nailed the tone.”
The master tone control will serve perfectly well if you’re in passive mode, but if you’re interested in Taylor’s tones you’ll stay in active mode, where the two-band boost and cut gives you an abundance of sonic options.
The JT Signature is fitted with an equally impressive accompaniment of hardware, including Hipshot Licensed Ultralite tuners and the Dingwall Minimalist bridge. Once you discover that the magnetic battery cover on the rear flips on and off with zero effort, you’ll wonder how you ever had the patience to unscrew the compartment cover on your old instruments.
“We’ve been Dingwall fans since day one. They’re the Ferrari of bass guitars, with state-of-the-art science behind them that actually benefits players. This is a bass that you’ll genuinely cherish for decades.” Bass Player Magazine
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.
