Modulus Graphite Funk Unlimited J5 (pre-owned)

Funk Unlimited J5 2008

The Modulus Funk Unlimited J5

This is the Funk Unlimited J5 from Modulus Graphite, out of the USA. Specifically, it’s a 2008 bass, serial number 080039, in gloss black with a black pearl pickguard.

First of all, it weighs 4.23 kilos. In fact, that’s a normal weight for a solid 5-string, and it hangs nicely on the strap. Moreover, the neck is made of carbon fiber, which is what Modulus has been known for since the beginning.

From Flea Bass to Funk Unlimited

Now, a bit of history. The Funk Unlimited was formerly called the Flea Bass, and yes, that’s the bass Flea from Red Hot Chili Peppers played. In other words, this is the same platform, here as a 5-string with two J pickups. As a result, you get a Jazz-style layout on one of the most stable necks out there.

Body, Neck & Woods

An alder body in gloss black

To begin with, the body of the Modulus Funk Unlimited J5 is alder with a double cutaway. In general, alder gives a warm and even foundation with a solid midrange. Likewise, the gloss black finish and the black pearl pickguard make it look sharp on stage.

Why the carbon fiber neck matters

Basically, a carbon fiber neck doesn’t move with the weather. Therefore, it stays straight when the temperature and humidity change, which means less adjusting and a bass that plays the same at every gig. Furthermore, the stiff neck gives a very even tone with a lot of punch and sustain, also on the low B.

In addition, the neck and the headstock have a black and silver graphic finish, so it doesn’t look like any other bass in the room.

Phenolic fingerboard and 22 frets

Meanwhile, the fingerboard is phenolic, a hard composite material. Consequently, it feels a bit like ebony and gives a clear, defined attack. Finally, the Funk Unlimited J5 has 22 frets, a 34″ scale and a 1.75″ nut, so it feels like a normal 5-string under your hands.

Condition

Condition of this Modulus Funk Unlimited J5

Of course, this 2008 Funk Unlimited J5 has been played, but it has been well looked after. For example, there are only surface scratches from normal playing. Moreover, the frets are in really good shape.

In addition, the bass comes in the original Modulus hardcase. As always, we’re happy to send more photos or answer questions before you buy.

Electronics, Sound & Feel

Two Bartolini J pickups

First of all, the pickups are two Bartolini J-style pickups. Moreover, together with the carbon neck, they give a clean and punchy Jazz bass sound with a lot of information in the tone. However, it’s more modern and tighter than a vintage Jazz bass, especially on the B-string.

Bartolini 3-band preamp

Furthermore, the bass has an active Bartolini 3-band preamp. In addition, the controls are volume, balance, bass, mid and treble. In other words, you have the mid control on board, which is really useful for cutting through a band or scooping out for slap.

Our take on the Modulus Funk Unlimited J5

All in all, the Modulus Funk Unlimited J5 is a working horse for the player who wants a reliable 5-string with a modern Jazz-style voice. Above all, for me personally, the carbon neck is the big thing here, because it just stays where you set it. So, what’s not to like?