Valenti SMJ5 Trans Blue (pre-owned)

Valenti SMJ5 Trans Blue

The Valenti SMJ5 Trans Blue

This is the SMJ5 from Valenti, out of the USA. In fact, it’s serial number #056, and it weighs 4.05 kilos, which is pretty normal for a five-string. Moreover, the first thing I notice is that top. Indeed, that quilted maple under the Trans Blue just jumps out at you.

As a matter of fact, Nino Valenti worked at Sadowsky in Brooklyn, first doing the final inspections and later as a builder. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this bass has a lot of Sadowsky in it, including the preamp. In other words, it’s a modern J-style five-string made by someone who really knows the recipe.

Body, Neck & Woods

Swamp ash body with a quilted maple top

First of all, the body of the Valenti SMJ5 is swamp ash, and you can see the grain through the blue on the back. As a result, you get that open, punchy ash sound with a clear low end. Furthermore, on top sits a 5A quilted maple top, which adds a little extra snap and definition.

Graphite reinforced neck and birdseye maple fingerboard

Meanwhile, the neck is maple with graphite reinforcement, so it stays stable. In addition, the fingerboard is 3A birdseye maple with 21 frets. Consequently, the tone has a bright and tight attack, which is great for slap and for a clear low B. Above all, for me personally, a maple board on a J-style five-string just makes sense.

34″ scale, 12″ radius and 19 mm spacing

Similarly, the Valenti SMJ5 has a 34″ scale, a 12″ radius and a 1 7/8″ nut. Likewise, the Hipshot A-style bridge is set at 19 mm string spacing. As a result, it feels like a classic J-style five-string, so there’s room for your right hand without feeling wide.

Condition

Condition of this Valenti SMJ5

Overall, this Valenti SMJ5 is in fine condition, with normal signs of use for a pre-owned bass. In addition, it comes with a gig bag, and straplocks are already fitted.

Besides, we’re happy to send close-up photos or answer questions before you buy. For instance, just reach out by chat or email.

Electronics, Sound & Feel

Nordstrand Big Single pickups

To begin with, the Valenti SMJ5 has two Nordstrand Big Singles. In short, they’re single coils in a soapbar housing, so you get the J-style character with a bigger, fuller voice. Therefore, the neck pickup is fat and round, while the bridge pickup gives you that growl.

Sadowsky preamp with VTC

Equally important, the preamp in this Valenti bass is a Sadowsky with boost-only bass and treble. In other words, the bass sounds flat with the knobs all the way down, and then you only add what you need. In addition, the VTC is a passive treble roll-off. For example, roll it back for a warm, vintage sound, or leave it open for the full modern Sadowsky thing.

Our take on the Valenti SMJ5 Trans Blue

All in all, the Valenti SMJ5 is a killer J-style five-string with a lot of information in the tone. Moreover, it’s a boutique bass from a small builder, and you don’t see many of them in Europe. So, what’s not to like?