G&L Guitars JB-5 Build To Order USA Sonic Blue Super Light Weight

Born from Clarence Leo Fender’s CLF Research company, founded in 1966, the G&L brand and instruments marked the final chapter of his legendary career when they were launched in 1980. G&L instruments benefited from his lifetime of creativity and innovation, and throughout the 1980s, his groundbreaking new instruments became icons loved by musicians around the world.

Today, G&L instruments continue to be crafted in his historic factory on Fender Avenue in Fullerton, California – The Birthplace of Bolt-on™. Discover why Leo famously declared, “G&L guitars and basses are the best instruments I have ever made.”

A Legendary Heritage By the late 1970s, Clarence Leo Fender and his CLF Research company had completed his consultancy for CBS/Fender, designed and manufactured the original Music Man instruments, and were looking forward to launching a new brand.

Together with former Fender employees George Fullerton and Dale Hyatt, Leo launched G&L Instruments, incorporating advanced features derived from his decades of experience in redefining what was possible in an electric guitar and bass.

The G&L JB•5 A Modern Classic for Five-String Bassists

A Decade of Innovation

Since G&L introduced their made-in-Fullerton jazz-style bass, the G&L JB has won the hearts of bassists with its classic Alnico tones enhanced by the G&L Saddle Lock bridge, a Leo Fender innovation that delivers greater attack and sustain. Today, the G&L JB-5 brings this winning formula to a five-string platform, offering players an instrument that excels in both performance and comfort.

Unmatched Comfort and Style

One of the standout features of the JB-5 is the Empress wood, its exceptionally light weight. This makes the G&L JB-5 incredibly comfortable to play, especially during long sessions. Whether you’re performing on stage or practicing in the studio, the reduced weight minimizes fatigue, allowing you to focus entirely on your playing.

The lightness of the Empress wood body contributes to better ergonomics. The bass feels more balanced and easier to handle, making it suitable for players of all sizes and skill levels. The reduced strain on your shoulders and back enhances your overall playing experience, making extended performances more enjoyable and less taxing on your body.

The JB-5 retains the beloved Alnico sound, characterized by warmth and clarity, but with added attack and sustain thanks to the Leo Fender-designed Saddle-Lock™ bridge. This bridge ensures optimal string energy transfer to the body, resulting in an incredibly resonant instrument.-The JB•5 features an easy-playing neck with a 1.750″ nut width and a slim rear profile, enhancing comfort and playability. The hard-rock maple neck has a smooth satin finish, making it effortless to navigate even the most complex bass lines.

The JB-5’s neck has a comfortable 9 1/2″ radius and is equipped with Jescar 57110 medium-jumbo nickel-silver frets, offering a silky playing experience. This combination ensures that every note is clear and precise, making it ideal for various playing styles.

The bass captures the essence of classic bass design while incorporating subtle modern advancements. This balance makes it a versatile choice for players who appreciate tradition but aren’t afraid to move forward.

The Saddle-Lock™ bridge, a hallmark of Leo Fender’s design, ensures that the JB-5 delivers outstanding resonance and sustain, making your performance stand out in any setting.

The JB-5’s slim, satin-finished neck and medium-jumbo frets provide comfort and playability, allowing you to play longer with less fatigue.

The G&L JB-5 is more than just a five-string bass; it’s a statement of quality and innovation. With its blend of classic tones and modern enhancements, this instrument is perfect for bassists who demand excellence in every performance.