Opinions on the Ibanez TMB-30?

[srblue5]

I'm looking into a cheap-ish short-scale bass for my own home recording projects (and maybe the occasional gig or recording session post-Covid). I prefer short-scale basses, as I find them easier to play (also, my bass playing owes a lot to Bill Wyman and Jack Bruce).

I found an Ibanez TMB-30 at a local store and it looks like it ticks all the boxes for me. However, I'm leery of touching and trying out guitars at stores, especially if I'm not yet sure I want to buy.

To that end, has anyone tried out or bought the Ibanez TMB-30? If so, what was your experience with it?

 

[Digital Larry]

I have one, and the stock roundwound strings were atrocious. I plus something something flatwounds on it and it's better. I don't go for a bright sound generally. It plays nice and I have two presets for it in my modeler, clean and slightly grungy. I like it. For $200 it is a great deal.

 

[ZenGuitarist]

I have no experience with the TMB-30 but if you're on the lookout for a decent and inexpensive short scale bass, see if you can find a Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar Short Scale Bass. I don't think Fender sells them anymore but you may be able to find a good used one. I bought one brand new a few years ago for about CDN$250.

 

[Kestrel]

I have no experience with the short scale Talman basses, but I do have a full scale TMB100. I can tell you that you will not find a better bass for $199US. Ibanez has really knocked it out of the park with these basses. They sound and play just as good as basses costing a lot more money. Aside from the cheap strings they come with, fit/finish are damn good for what they cost. If you’re on a tight budget, or are just looking for a good beater bass for the studio or occasional gigs, I cannot recommend a better bass for such a low price.

 

[68Telebass]

^^^^ This!
@Kestrel is correct- I got the long scale- just fantastic amounts of value for under $200!!!!
Yes to flatwound as well!! But the active EQ on the TMB100 takes those stock roundwound right down to ToneTown...

 

[elihu]

+3 regarding the TMB100. I bought a blue one in a local pawn shop for $100 American and I couldn't be more pleased. With decent strings it sounds good and I like the traditional styling too.

 

[68Telebass]

100 in Soda Blue??? I’m jealous!!

+3 regarding the TMB100. I bought a blue one in a local pawn shop for $100 Ametican and I couldn't be more pleased. With decent strings it sounds good and I like the traditional styling too.