Love your coverage of basses and short scales available in Canada. I bought my Bronco just before your Bronco series. I found Groove guitars a few weeks ago and was debating getting their Mustang and Stingray basses but was skeptical of the quality until this video. You've been doing some quality research and it feels very personalized to me. Thanks for the video! Greetings from Ottawa! 🇨🇦
Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! I'm in Winnipeg now, but I have spent some time working at the Bruyere (Ottawa) many years ago. I cannot speak to the quality across the different Groove models (or within the model lines), but this particular Groove TM example punches well above its weight and far exceeded my expectations! I have no affiliation with Kanamusique!
Honestly, you should be skeptical of every brand whether you've heard of them or not...in a straight-out-the-box comparison, this groove bass definitely takes the prize, but the sonic bronco is a solid modding platform with lots of options
Thank you for highlighting short scale basses. I wish this would have been what i started with instead of suffering with a full scale for so long. What a great, unsponsored review. Glad you found a gem! I know you're spending your time and money making these videos so I've subscribed and commented 😉. Also, let's hope this company finds much success from your review. Cheers!
Thanks so much for your support and for watching! Much appreciated. I got into short scales due to health issues (autoimmune joint and muscle disease). They’ve been a game changer, and got me back into playing and recording with considerably less pain. Thx again!
@jonathanwong458music sorry to hear about your health troubles. I'm so glad short scale basses brought you back and allowed you to play. I full heartedly believe music and joy has profound effects on our health. Autoimmune conditions are a life long battle. Don't ever stop reading and discovering ways to help lessen your body's triggers. As a nurse of 13 yrs now s/p thyroid cancer, it's taken alot of using lifestyle management to be my best self. Thanks again for all you do ❤️.
@@frankkiethebassplayer Right on! Thanks so much for the support. Finding and maintaining one's best self is the name of the game....in all aspects of this rollercoaster movie we call life.
Jonathan, thank you very much for your detailed and practical videos. I’m going down the rabbit hole in an attempt to pick my first short scale bass and you’re adding a lot of value in helping me decide on one.
Thanks for watching! Short scales are awesome. I got into them due to medical issues, but not sure why I didn't take them more seriously sooner! Game changer for me. Good luck finding one you like!
Dude….. I’m gonna sell my bronco bass and get this! Thanks so much! Now I can stop having to look forever for a good humbucking pickup for the bronco. I could have used this video 4 months ago.
Thanks for watching! This is the only example of Groove I’ve had my hands on, so I can’t speak to QC or consistency within their lines. This particular one, however, is fantastic, not just for the price. The sonic Bronco does have potential and I’ve filmed lots of videos exploring it! I hope you like your Groove when it arrives. Please let us know of your experience with it!
Picked up one of these (in green) based on this review. Seems pretty good so far - thank you for the review, there's so little information out there on Groove.
That’s great to hear! For the price, it’s pretty great! I would be very interested in hearing about the quality control and consistency. Thanks for watching!
Great find and I always enjoy the level of detail in your videos. This review and comparison of the Groove bass is especially helpful because I’ve been thinking of buying the Fender JMJ Mustang bass and then saw your video on diminishing returns. So, buying a P-bass for around $200 (US) that includes shipping is outstanding. Quick question on the radius of the neck and the width at the nut. Thank you for your excellent contributions to the bass community.
Thanks so much for watching and for your encouragement! The nut width is just a sliver under 1.5". The fretboard radius is pretty flat, unlike a more traditional Fender. In terms of profile and thickness, the neck is very similar to my Fender 1st gen PJ Mustang, so around 7/8" thick @ the 5th fret. The JMJ is a solid Mustang bass! But to be honest, there were a few things that kept me from buying it (bought the yellow Schecter Japan i used for the Mustang pickup series instead). The JMJ has a more traditional 1.625" nut width and it feels chunkier overall. As well, the truss rod access is buried at the heel of the neck and in typical Fender style, you end up mangling the body and pickguard getting a wrench in there. Big temp and humidity swings where I live, so I'm constantly watching and tweaking setups! I also think it's a bit over-priced. But I love how the JMJ looks. The Daphne Blue is amazing. I'm 50/50 on relic'ing. I like a played-in look, but not that it was dragged behind my car! I can't lie about enjoying high end instruments - I had a custom F bass made for me, after all. But having said that, and as much as I love My F Bass, I can't honestly say it's 10x better than my Fender given the 10x price tag. There are lots of great instruments that I have kept that are not that expensive but provide an excellent experience! This Groove is gold at $289 CDN! No sponsors or affiliate links! Thanks for watching!
I'm in the Montreal area, where Kana Music is located. I see a number of these Groove instruments on used sites and have heard some decent reviews of other models. I've been interested in this one but hadn't heard anything either way about them, now I'm even more interested in one. Thanks for the review :)
Thanks for sharing! I would be very interested in knowing how the quality control is across the models. If it's anything like this one, with a good marketing team, these should be desirable to beginners and giggers. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for watching! I have a Japanese schecter that is outstanding. Schecters in general are pretty good. I haven’t tried the Banshee myself, so I can’t say at present. Been trying to find one at a good price!
You do a great job with your videos. My takeaway from this one is that your Pod6 setup makes any bass sound good, if not nearly identical. IMO, guitar + cable + amp is the only way to hear a guitar's actual tone. Adding a processor or effects just colors the sound.
Thank you for watching and commenting! You make a fair point! Firstly, the current Line6 Pod Go (or Helix) is an amazing piece of kit and I absolutely love that I can take my studio sound live. The patch I consistently use, although modelled by ear off of my vintage GK800RB, is not at all a typical GK sound. I developed this sound to be a slightly warmer version of a neutral DI/direct sound with the help of a few studio engineers. We were simply after a neutral sound that had a touch more depth to it. This way, we could manipulate it in post if we had to, but it sounds good on its own. I do not use any speaker emulation or mic emulation on my patch. Those I find waaaay too colouring! And it really limits what you can do to it in post. So it's my Line6 - balanced out into the interface. Continuing to use the patch on this channel was a combination of accident and conscience decision! At first, it was to highlight how good some of my own short scale basses sounded. But .... this whole TH-cam channel sort of happened by accident! The conscience decision part had to do with how I 'think' the majority of my viewers use a bass - and that's through an amp in a room. That, however, is an assumption that's unproven. So the Line6 sort of splits the difference between clinical squeaky clean DI and amp in the room, although it does lean much more towards DI than amp + speaker. But you make a fair point about making a true comparison with fewer variables and colour. If the differences are on the subtle side, one could argue that it would likely be an insignificant difference 'in the mix' or on stage. That's also one of the main reasons why I use a real recorded drum track. The mix of overtones is very different compared to a drum machine or a sampled loop.
Jonathan, I watch your videos all the time. great job! I have to ask....IF you HAD to choose either the Groove bass OR the Squire Sonic Bronco bass, which would it be? I'm not interested in mods or anything, just AS IS, out of the box. Honest Opinion?
Thanks for watching!! I actually did choose, to answer your question honestly. The bronco went to a friend who really wanted the EMG loaded iteration. And I kept the blue Groove. The stock pickup is actually quite good. Especially at $289 CDN. It’s just fine, as is, out of the box. I restrung it and set it up, but that’s it. I also filed a few saddle screws that were above the saddle. It’s mostly a backup instrument, but as the video suggests, I really do think it’s the best value shortie out there! I have no affiliation with the company in any way.
@@jonathanwong458music Thanks so much! I didn't wanna spend a lot on my first short scale, and just wanted the biggest bang for my limited bucks. I appreciate your input!
Thanks for watching! Unfortunately, the example I have does not have a stamp or a sticker stating the exact place of manufacture. Nor does the Kana Musique websites. My guess would be China, given the price point and the smell of the original packaging... but that's just a guess.
I've been looking for details on this bass for months after finding it on ebay while looking for a budget short scale bass. Awesome video. I'm still not able to buy a new bass at this time lol but this has a higher consideration on what I'd get now compared to a Squier CV Mustang or Ibanez TB30. Especially since it's passive, which is a big selling point to me.
Nice report on the bass. I'm looking for an inexpensive 4 string short scale bass. One that is at least built fairly well. This might be the one. Too bad i can't just go to my music store and try it. Thanks for the video! I'm in Ontario.
Thanks for watching! I’ve heard from a few viewers who have purchased the Groove short scale and it seems they are content with it, in general. Of course there will be a few imperfections at this price point, but for $289 CDN, nothing else on the market beats it, in my opinion. I have no affiliation with Groove or Kana. I just like seeing people happy playing bass!
A 30-34" Dingwall would be killer! This would deliver the tight, solid lower string response of a longscale combined with the deep, warm upper string sound that often only short-scale basses can provide.
Oh yes! I have definitely been day dreaming about that! Ibanez makes a shorter multiscale headless model I’ve been meaning to check out. Thanks for watching!
I’ve been casually looking for the right shorty 5 string, but nothing has ticked all the boxes. My Zebrawood cort 5 with a capo has done an admirable job, but I’m always looking to branch out and try new things.
I like it! The headstock shape is nice, sort of Fender and Music Man combined. Speaking of Music Man, the bridge looks like a black version of the bridge on my Sterling Sub Series Stingray. I wish the term 'tummy cut' was 'rib relief' because I only notice that contour's absence when I'm seated to play and the back top of the body grinds into my lower rib cage, but maybe I just need to eat more! Great demonstration!
Thanks for watching! Rib relief is a great way to call it! It is a great feature, as many reissue MIJ mustangs are slab bodied, as well as the player series. Can be uncomfortable depending on your body shape/size/joints and the contact points.
Was looking for a cheap 30" bass. Found one last week near where I live. And it's the exact same brand and color. I did some search, but nothing on the pickup quality. Looked at Seymour-Duncan web site in way to see how much it would cost, but your review shows that the pickup is correct, if not better than a Fender Bronco. Thanks very much. I'll go with that Groove 30" kind of Mustang bass. And keep the original pickup. Thanks again.
Thanks for watching! The stock pickup on this Groove has a bit of an over-wound, slightly hot P pickup type sound. Not 'vintagey' or polite sounding. Seymour Duncan made the re-issue mustang pickup for many of the Japanese Fender Mustangs. Their custom shop can also do a custom wind for you, but the size of the mustang shells may limit the number and type of winds possible. And it'll be expensive. The Groove's pickup is much more defined and broader in frequency compared to the stock bronco p/u. It's all a matter of taste in the end, but so far, absolutely nothing wrong with the stock Groove p/u, provided you like the more aggressive tone of it. Please let us know of your experience with your Groove, should you get it! I'd love to know the quality control. PS I'm planning a Mustang pickup series, comparing a handful of different mustang pickups. Stay tuned!
Price no object, my custom F bass! For under $1,000 cdn, and this may surprise viewers, I’m really liking the Epiphone Rumblekat! Under $500 cdn, this Groove exceeds expectation! Thanks for watching and for the encouragement!
Hi! Thanks for watching! I have not had an opportunity to try the Schecter Banshee myself. Nice colour options and I like that it comes stock with a P style pickup. I own a Schecter Japan mustang that's fantastic and Schecters, in general, are pretty solid. I've been trying to find a Banshee at a reasonable price, too!
Thanks for the great video's on the Shortscale basses! I am tossing up between the Harley Benton Shorty, Squire Mini P and Sonic Bronco. I have a full scale Fender bass already, but want something my 8-12 y kids can play too. I can't easily get the Groove here in Europe. The 30" scale may be easier to play in the long run. I'm kind of tending towards the Bronco, but would like to hear your thoughts. The HB is way cheaper, but all are still cheap, so I'd prefer something they still enjoy playing as teenagers. Thanks!
I have filmed a whole series on modding the Squier bronco. Makes for a great mod platform. I generally find the 28.6” scale on the mini to be a bit too cramped (for me). The quality control of the Harley Bentons are a bit hit and miss and the current generation of their Mustang copy is not as good as the previous, unfortunately. If it’s for kids, which one do their eyes gravitate towards? At that price, point, you may also want to consider the Ibanez Mikro. More modern looking, depending on what your kids like. Thanks for watching!
I found mine on ebay. Here's a link to their ebay store, where you can also browse their other offerings: www.ebay.ca/str/kanamusiquecanada For clarity, I have no affiliation with this company in any way. There are a few Canadian stores that carry Groove guitars too (not many, though). Thanks for watching!
Thanks for watching! I found mine on ebay through their ebay store. Here's a link: www.ebay.ca/str/kanamusiquecanada I do not have any affiliation with the company.
@@jonathanwong458music thank you so much i found them in Canada, a small question are you recording Flat to an Audio interface or using an AMP with Cab & Mic ?
I record everything direct through a Line6 Pod Go with a GK model that is fairly neutral. No cab sim, no mics. I modelled the settings to be a neutral representation of what I hear in the room. Slightly warmer version of flat and direct.
@@jonathanwong458music okay great thank you so much, I Like very much your short scale F-Bass, i am thinking to order one in the near future, your Videos are amazing because it's very HONEST & detailed explanation of Good & Bad very clear, Well Done thank you for helping us to compare that easy, God Bless you
The Squier Bronco has a single coil strat pickup. This Groove has a mustang bass style split coil. It sounds surprisingly good! And it’s humcancelling. Thanks for watching!
Jonathan, I just received one of these and one of the tuner gears was damaged. I might just upgrade the tuners instead of trying to get a replacement from the company. What tuners would be best to replace the stock ones? Or if you know which tuners they are I could just replace the one damaged one. Thanks for your time, and short scale reviews. Definitely helping me decide what to try.
Oh man!! I am so sorry to hear that bad news....was the rest of the bass ok? Have you tried contacting Kana Music? I'd be interested to know what their customer service is like. Hopefully, they'll at least send you a replacement tuner if it was damaged during shipping or banged up during packaging. In terms of replacement tuners - I am not certain there will be a direct drop in replacement tuner. Many companies use slightly different screw hole patterns. Having replaced/"upgraded" many tuners, I have more often than not needed to fill/dowel the original holes, and redrill new ones. In terms of tuners that I have used and would recommend, offerings from Hipshot are nice because they have a few different colours (including black for the Groove!) and a couple key/paddle shapes. I also like Gotohs. **More importantly, Hipshot and Gotoh both publically publish their tuner drawings and measurements, which would give you a much better idea of whether or not it would directly fit or drop-in. Best of luck to you!
@@jonathanwong458music they responded very quickly and said they've seen it before with machining issues. I don't think it was damaged in shipping, just a faulty part. We'll see how quickly they get the replacement to me. It is just the gear wheel. I'll report back to you on the progress. I appreciate the info on replacement tuners and for now will just wait for the part. Thanks for the speedy response! Dean
Hopefully the new gear will just drop in. Thanks for letting me know! I'm glad Kana music is taking care of you, as they should. The TH-cam studio app doesn't always give me new reply notifications, so if I don't reply, just start a new comment!
@@jonathanwong458music the part is getting shipped out today UPS expedited, for arrival Tuesday. I'll definitely stay in touch to share my thoughts and questions on short scale basses. That's all I play now for bass. I have a Jackson minion, a Sire u5 Fretless, and now this. I've owned an Ibanez Mikro (didn't like the neck or the on/off "tone" knob, but considering the TMB30). I'll start a new thread about staining fingerboards and necks as I would like to do so with this Groove short scale.
This brand is new to me so Thank you. instead of sanding the nut flush with the neck I would just replace it with a new graph tech nut. You can also buy shorter grub screws for the saddles instead of filing them. 🍺🇨🇦
For sure! I’ve had good experiences with graphtec saddles and nuts. Not sure it was truly ‘smoother’, but it was solid and reliable. I’ve been in the habit of filing the bridge screws. Easy and cheap and my gig bags are happier! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for watching and asking! I saw that the v2s are out. Planning on getting one to use on the channel, but haven't had a chance to buy or try it yet. Hopefully soon!
Right on! My music partner who got the HB from the video is happy with it, but I've disconnected the bridge J, so it's just a P bass. Could also consider getting a stacked dual volume pot, would allow you to get a blend instead of just on/off.
@@jonathanwong458music That is another solution to avoid drilling anything and would add more versatility. Not a fan myself of stacked knobs, specially for a live situation (I have it at a Sire bass), I hope the simple original circuit of the Mustang PJ would be enough. I will know in some weeks.
if i'm buying Italian it's going to be a Paoletti. Modern Basses with Humbuckers, Roasted Maple Necks, Roasted Maple/Pau Ferro/Ebony Fingerboards with a 12" Radius and the bodies are made out of 100+ year old reclaimed chestnut from wine barrels. Not Cheap! 🍺🇨🇦🇮🇹
@@AnnaSibirskaja Nah, Paoletti is no Fodera and Eko used to make good instruments back in the 60's but there is no need to import a cheap copy bass when there are plenty available in Canada. if you're going to import an instrument import a Paoletti or Luigi.
This particular one is great. So compared to the HBs I’ve had on the channel, yes I would! I’ve only ever seen this one, so I can’t comment on QC. Thx for watching!
It’s top load, so most flats advertised as ‘short scale’ should be good to go: eg D’addario chromes short, GHS short flats. (Unlike string through mustangs that need medium scales. I have a video dedicated to short scale strings should you be interested!) Let us know how you like yours! I’d love to hear of the quality control across the lines!
Yeah, man! It's really the same warts found on most import basses under 1k. If we are to be really honest....you and I have probably found the same warts on US-made instruments at higher price points!! Short of my F Bass, almost every single bass that was shipped to me needed some degree of setup work. All that said, I think this particular Groove TM played WELL ABOVE its asking price. I'd happily gig with it! Maybe I got an above average example, but if they're all this good, go out and buy 'em!! Thanks for watching!
I have not. This was my first experience with any instrument from Groove. It does make me curious about how good their other P, J and Stingray style bass offerings are! Thanks for watching!
Love your coverage of basses and short scales available in Canada. I bought my Bronco just before your Bronco series. I found Groove guitars a few weeks ago and was debating getting their Mustang and Stingray basses but was skeptical of the quality until this video. You've been doing some quality research and it feels very personalized to me.
Thanks for the video! Greetings from Ottawa! 🇨🇦
Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! I'm in Winnipeg now, but I have spent some time working at the Bruyere (Ottawa) many years ago.
I cannot speak to the quality across the different Groove models (or within the model lines), but this particular Groove TM example punches well above its weight and far exceeded my expectations! I have no affiliation with Kanamusique!
Honestly, you should be skeptical of every brand whether you've heard of them or not...in a straight-out-the-box comparison, this groove bass definitely takes the prize, but the sonic bronco is a solid modding platform with lots of options
For sure, the sonic bronco has lots of sonic modding potential!
Thank you for highlighting short scale basses. I wish this would have been what i started with instead of suffering with a full scale for so long. What a great, unsponsored review. Glad you found a gem! I know you're spending your time and money making these videos so I've subscribed and commented 😉. Also, let's hope this company finds much success from your review. Cheers!
Thanks so much for your support and for watching! Much appreciated. I got into short scales due to health issues (autoimmune joint and muscle disease). They’ve been a game changer, and got me back into playing and recording with considerably less pain.
Thx again!
@jonathanwong458music sorry to hear about your health troubles. I'm so glad short scale basses brought you back and allowed you to play. I full heartedly believe music and joy has profound effects on our health. Autoimmune conditions are a life long battle. Don't ever stop reading and discovering ways to help lessen your body's triggers. As a nurse of 13 yrs now s/p thyroid cancer, it's taken alot of using lifestyle management to be my best self. Thanks again for all you do ❤️.
@@frankkiethebassplayer Right on! Thanks so much for the support. Finding and maintaining one's best self is the name of the game....in all aspects of this rollercoaster movie we call life.
Jonathan, thank you very much for your detailed and practical videos. I’m going down the rabbit hole in an attempt to pick my first short scale bass and you’re adding a lot of value in helping me decide on one.
Thanks for watching! Short scales are awesome. I got into them due to medical issues, but not sure why I didn't take them more seriously sooner! Game changer for me.
Good luck finding one you like!
@@jonathanwong458music Thanks again!
Another great video on shorties. Well done Jonathan! Keep them coming!
Thanks so much for watching and for the feedback!
Dude….. I’m gonna sell my bronco bass and get this! Thanks so much! Now I can stop having to look forever for a good humbucking pickup for the bronco. I could have used this video 4 months ago.
Thanks for watching! This is the only example of Groove I’ve had my hands on, so I can’t speak to QC or consistency within their lines. This particular one, however, is fantastic, not just for the price. The sonic Bronco does have potential and I’ve filmed lots of videos exploring it! I hope you like your Groove when it arrives. Please let us know of your experience with it!
You can easily fit and install a rail pickup in the Bronco and get hum-cancelling. Duncan Cool Rails or Artec Rails sound grear
I saw those on eBay'and read a lot of positive reviews. I'd snag one if I didn't already have a MIJ Mustang. Thanks for the demo Jonathan.
Far exceeded my expectations! Thanks for watching!
Picked up one of these (in green) based on this review. Seems pretty good so far - thank you for the review, there's so little information out there on Groove.
That’s great to hear! For the price, it’s pretty great! I would be very interested in hearing about the quality control and consistency.
Thanks for watching!
There are brands that very few people know about....I just love that blue bass!!!!!🇨🇱🇨🇦
Yeah! This Groove is pretty great! Factor in the low price and it's pretty surprising! Thanks so much for watching!
A white pearl pickup would look amazing on this
Great find and I always enjoy the level of detail in your videos. This review and comparison of the Groove bass is especially helpful because I’ve been thinking of buying the Fender JMJ Mustang bass and then saw your video on diminishing returns. So, buying a P-bass for around $200 (US) that includes shipping is outstanding.
Quick question on the radius of the neck and the width at the nut.
Thank you for your excellent contributions to the bass community.
I listened to your review again and you mentioned the nut width. The radius is minor.
Thanks so much for watching and for your encouragement!
The nut width is just a sliver under 1.5". The fretboard radius is pretty flat, unlike a more traditional Fender. In terms of profile and thickness, the neck is very similar to my Fender 1st gen PJ Mustang, so around 7/8" thick @ the 5th fret.
The JMJ is a solid Mustang bass! But to be honest, there were a few things that kept me from buying it (bought the yellow Schecter Japan i used for the Mustang pickup series instead).
The JMJ has a more traditional 1.625" nut width and it feels chunkier overall. As well, the truss rod access is buried at the heel of the neck and in typical Fender style, you end up mangling the body and pickguard getting a wrench in there. Big temp and humidity swings where I live, so I'm constantly watching and tweaking setups! I also think it's a bit over-priced. But I love how the JMJ looks. The Daphne Blue is amazing. I'm 50/50 on relic'ing. I like a played-in look, but not that it was dragged behind my car!
I can't lie about enjoying high end instruments - I had a custom F bass made for me, after all. But having said that, and as much as I love My F Bass, I can't honestly say it's 10x better than my Fender given the 10x price tag. There are lots of great instruments that I have kept that are not that expensive but provide an excellent experience! This Groove is gold at $289 CDN! No sponsors or affiliate links!
Thanks for watching!
I'm in the Montreal area, where Kana Music is located. I see a number of these Groove instruments on used sites and have heard some decent reviews of other models. I've been interested in this one but hadn't heard anything either way about them, now I'm even more interested in one. Thanks for the review :)
Thanks for sharing! I would be very interested in knowing how the quality control is across the models. If it's anything like this one, with a good marketing team, these should be desirable to beginners and giggers.
Thanks for watching!
Seems very cool. Would also love to get your take on the Schecter Banshee Bass if you ever come across one!
Thanks for watching! I have a Japanese schecter that is outstanding. Schecters in general are pretty good. I haven’t tried the Banshee myself, so I can’t say at present. Been trying to find one at a good price!
You do a great job with your videos. My takeaway from this one is that your Pod6 setup makes any bass sound good, if not nearly identical. IMO, guitar + cable + amp is the only way to hear a guitar's actual tone. Adding a processor or effects just colors the sound.
Thank you for watching and commenting!
You make a fair point! Firstly, the current Line6 Pod Go (or Helix) is an amazing piece of kit and I absolutely love that I can take my studio sound live. The patch I consistently use, although modelled by ear off of my vintage GK800RB, is not at all a typical GK sound. I developed this sound to be a slightly warmer version of a neutral DI/direct sound with the help of a few studio engineers. We were simply after a neutral sound that had a touch more depth to it. This way, we could manipulate it in post if we had to, but it sounds good on its own. I do not use any speaker emulation or mic emulation on my patch. Those I find waaaay too colouring! And it really limits what you can do to it in post. So it's my Line6 - balanced out into the interface.
Continuing to use the patch on this channel was a combination of accident and conscience decision! At first, it was to highlight how good some of my own short scale basses sounded. But .... this whole TH-cam channel sort of happened by accident!
The conscience decision part had to do with how I 'think' the majority of my viewers use a bass - and that's through an amp in a room. That, however, is an assumption that's unproven. So the Line6 sort of splits the difference between clinical squeaky clean DI and amp in the room, although it does lean much more towards DI than amp + speaker.
But you make a fair point about making a true comparison with fewer variables and colour. If the differences are on the subtle side, one could argue that it would likely be an insignificant difference 'in the mix' or on stage. That's also one of the main reasons why I use a real recorded drum track. The mix of overtones is very different compared to a drum machine or a sampled loop.
Jonathan, I watch your videos all the time. great job! I have to ask....IF you HAD to choose either the Groove bass OR the Squire Sonic Bronco bass, which would it be? I'm not interested in mods or anything, just AS IS, out of the box. Honest Opinion?
Thanks for watching!!
I actually did choose, to answer your question honestly. The bronco went to a friend who really wanted the EMG loaded iteration. And I kept the blue Groove. The stock pickup is actually quite good. Especially at $289 CDN. It’s just fine, as is, out of the box. I restrung it and set it up, but that’s it. I also filed a few saddle screws that were above the saddle.
It’s mostly a backup instrument, but as the video suggests, I really do think it’s the best value shortie out there! I have no affiliation with the company in any way.
@@jonathanwong458music Thanks so much! I didn't wanna spend a lot on my first short scale, and just wanted the biggest bang for my limited bucks. I appreciate your input!
Best of luck!
Hi, nice demo video, thanks. Where are these manufactured?
Thanks for watching! Unfortunately, the example I have does not have a stamp or a sticker stating the exact place of manufacture. Nor does the Kana Musique websites. My guess would be China, given the price point and the smell of the original packaging... but that's just a guess.
I've been looking for details on this bass for months after finding it on ebay while looking for a budget short scale bass. Awesome video. I'm still not able to buy a new bass at this time lol but this has a higher consideration on what I'd get now compared to a Squier CV Mustang or Ibanez TB30. Especially since it's passive, which is a big selling point to me.
Thanks so much for watching! This particular one exceeded my expectations! Sounds ‘bigger’ than the Squier CV mustang to my ears.
@@jonathanwong458music By chance do you know of any replacement pickguards for this bass?
I don’t know, sorry. Might need to get a custom one.
Nice report on the bass. I'm looking for an inexpensive 4 string short scale bass. One that is at least built fairly well. This might be the one. Too bad i can't just go to my music store and try it.
Thanks for the video! I'm in Ontario.
Thanks for watching! I’ve heard from a few viewers who have purchased the Groove short scale and it seems they are content with it, in general. Of course there will be a few imperfections at this price point, but for $289 CDN, nothing else on the market beats it, in my opinion.
I have no affiliation with Groove or Kana. I just like seeing people happy playing bass!
A 30-34" Dingwall would be killer! This would deliver the tight, solid lower string response of a longscale combined with the deep, warm upper string sound that often only short-scale basses can provide.
Oh yes! I have definitely been day dreaming about that! Ibanez makes a shorter multiscale headless model I’ve been meaning to check out.
Thanks for watching!
@@jonathanwong458music Oh yeah, right, I didn't remember them. Even two: the EHB1005SMS and the EHB1005SMS, at 30-32". Definitely worth checking out!
@@jonathanwong458music And then there's also the SRC6MS, but this is more like a 28.5-30" Bass VI.
I’ve been casually looking for the right shorty 5 string, but nothing has ticked all the boxes. My Zebrawood cort 5 with a capo has done an admirable job, but I’m always looking to branch out and try new things.
I like it! The headstock shape is nice, sort of Fender and Music Man combined. Speaking of Music Man, the bridge looks like a black version of the bridge on my Sterling Sub Series Stingray. I wish the term 'tummy cut' was 'rib relief' because I only notice that contour's absence when I'm seated to play and the back top of the body grinds into my lower rib cage, but maybe I just need to eat more! Great demonstration!
Thanks for watching! Rib relief is a great way to call it! It is a great feature, as many reissue MIJ mustangs are slab bodied, as well as the player series. Can be uncomfortable depending on your body shape/size/joints and the contact points.
Was looking for a cheap 30" bass. Found one last week near where I live. And it's the exact same brand and color. I did some search, but nothing on the pickup quality. Looked at Seymour-Duncan web site in way to see how much it would cost, but your review shows that the pickup is correct, if not better than a Fender Bronco.
Thanks very much. I'll go with that Groove 30" kind of Mustang bass. And keep the original pickup. Thanks again.
Thanks for watching! The stock pickup on this Groove has a bit of an over-wound, slightly hot P pickup type sound. Not 'vintagey' or polite sounding. Seymour Duncan made the re-issue mustang pickup for many of the Japanese Fender Mustangs. Their custom shop can also do a custom wind for you, but the size of the mustang shells may limit the number and type of winds possible. And it'll be expensive.
The Groove's pickup is much more defined and broader in frequency compared to the stock bronco p/u. It's all a matter of taste in the end, but so far, absolutely nothing wrong with the stock Groove p/u, provided you like the more aggressive tone of it.
Please let us know of your experience with your Groove, should you get it! I'd love to know the quality control.
PS I'm planning a Mustang pickup series, comparing a handful of different mustang pickups. Stay tuned!
Another great video. I’m trying to find out the nut width on the Groove TM bass. Would you know?
The nut width on this bass is 1.5", like a J bass.
Thanks for watching!
@@jonathanwong458music Thank you. I could not find that on the description.
@@jameslawrence6767 Best of luck in the hunt!
Very good review and you always does. What is your most favorite short scale so far out from the box?
Price no object, my custom F bass!
For under $1,000 cdn, and this may surprise viewers, I’m really liking the Epiphone Rumblekat! Under $500 cdn, this Groove exceeds expectation!
Thanks for watching and for the encouragement!
PS I also have a soft spot for my 1st gen Fender PJ offset mustang. It predates the player 1.
Great video. Any ideas about Banshee bass? Trying to find one in my location
Hi! Thanks for watching! I have not had an opportunity to try the Schecter Banshee myself. Nice colour options and I like that it comes stock with a P style pickup. I own a Schecter Japan mustang that's fantastic and Schecters, in general, are pretty solid. I've been trying to find a Banshee at a reasonable price, too!
Thanks for the great video's on the Shortscale basses! I am tossing up between the Harley Benton Shorty, Squire Mini P and Sonic Bronco. I have a full scale Fender bass already, but want something my 8-12 y kids can play too. I can't easily get the Groove here in Europe. The 30" scale may be easier to play in the long run. I'm kind of tending towards the Bronco, but would like to hear your thoughts. The HB is way cheaper, but all are still cheap, so I'd prefer something they still enjoy playing as teenagers. Thanks!
I have filmed a whole series on modding the Squier bronco. Makes for a great mod platform. I generally find the 28.6” scale on the mini to be a bit too cramped (for me). The quality control of the Harley Bentons are a bit hit and miss and the current generation of their Mustang copy is not as good as the previous, unfortunately. If it’s for kids, which one do their eyes gravitate towards? At that price, point, you may also want to consider the Ibanez Mikro. More modern looking, depending on what your kids like.
Thanks for watching!
Where can you buy these basses online?
I found mine on ebay. Here's a link to their ebay store, where you can also browse their other offerings:
www.ebay.ca/str/kanamusiquecanada
For clarity, I have no affiliation with this company in any way. There are a few Canadian stores that carry Groove guitars too (not many, though).
Thanks for watching!
Hello very nice demo, from where to buy one ?
Thanks for watching! I found mine on ebay through their ebay store. Here's a link: www.ebay.ca/str/kanamusiquecanada
I do not have any affiliation with the company.
@@jonathanwong458music thank you so much i found them in Canada, a small question are you recording Flat to an Audio interface or using an AMP with Cab & Mic ?
I record everything direct through a Line6 Pod Go with a GK model that is fairly neutral. No cab sim, no mics. I modelled the settings to be a neutral representation of what I hear in the room. Slightly warmer version of flat and direct.
@@jonathanwong458music okay great thank you so much, I Like very much your short scale F-Bass, i am thinking to order one in the near future, your Videos are amazing because it's very HONEST & detailed explanation of Good & Bad very clear, Well Done thank you for helping us to compare that easy, God Bless you
Thanks so much for the encouragement! I love my custom short scale F Bass! We got many things right on that design!
What pickup? Is it a 6 pole strat pickup?
The Squier Bronco has a single coil strat pickup. This Groove has a mustang bass style split coil. It sounds surprisingly good! And it’s humcancelling.
Thanks for watching!
Jonathan, I just received one of these and one of the tuner gears was damaged. I might just upgrade the tuners instead of trying to get a replacement from the company. What tuners would be best to replace the stock ones? Or if you know which tuners they are I could just replace the one damaged one. Thanks for your time, and short scale reviews. Definitely helping me decide what to try.
Oh man!! I am so sorry to hear that bad news....was the rest of the bass ok? Have you tried contacting Kana Music? I'd be interested to know what their customer service is like. Hopefully, they'll at least send you a replacement tuner if it was damaged during shipping or banged up during packaging.
In terms of replacement tuners - I am not certain there will be a direct drop in replacement tuner. Many companies use slightly different screw hole patterns. Having replaced/"upgraded" many tuners, I have more often than not needed to fill/dowel the original holes, and redrill new ones.
In terms of tuners that I have used and would recommend, offerings from Hipshot are nice because they have a few different colours (including black for the Groove!) and a couple key/paddle shapes. I also like Gotohs. **More importantly, Hipshot and Gotoh both publically publish their tuner drawings and measurements, which would give you a much better idea of whether or not it would directly fit or drop-in.
Best of luck to you!
@@jonathanwong458music they responded very quickly and said they've seen it before with machining issues. I don't think it was damaged in shipping, just a faulty part. We'll see how quickly they get the replacement to me. It is just the gear wheel. I'll report back to you on the progress. I appreciate the info on replacement tuners and for now will just wait for the part. Thanks for the speedy response! Dean
Hopefully the new gear will just drop in. Thanks for letting me know! I'm glad Kana music is taking care of you, as they should.
The TH-cam studio app doesn't always give me new reply notifications, so if I don't reply, just start a new comment!
@@jonathanwong458music the part is getting shipped out today UPS expedited, for arrival Tuesday. I'll definitely stay in touch to share my thoughts and questions on short scale basses. That's all I play now for bass. I have a Jackson minion, a Sire u5 Fretless, and now this. I've owned an Ibanez Mikro (didn't like the neck or the on/off "tone" knob, but considering the TMB30). I'll start a new thread about staining fingerboards and necks as I would like to do so with this Groove short scale.
@@DeanAngermeier fast service! Hope it works!
This brand is new to me so Thank you. instead of sanding the nut flush with the neck I would just replace it with a new graph tech nut. You can also buy shorter grub screws for the saddles instead of filing them. 🍺🇨🇦
For sure! I’ve had good experiences with graphtec saddles and nuts. Not sure it was truly ‘smoother’, but it was solid and reliable. I’ve been in the habit of filing the bridge screws. Easy and cheap and my gig bags are happier! Thanks for watching!
That has a really nice sound.
I think so too! Plays better than I expected too!
Thanks for watching!
Great find
Thanks for watching!!
The Harley Benton MV-4MSB is out now again, including toggle switch. How do you compare yours (1st iteration) to this model?
Thanks for watching and asking! I saw that the v2s are out. Planning on getting one to use on the channel, but haven't had a chance to buy or try it yet. Hopefully soon!
@@jonathanwong458music getting myself a toggle switch to add to mine between the pots (1st gen. also).
Right on! My music partner who got the HB from the video is happy with it, but I've disconnected the bridge J, so it's just a P bass. Could also consider getting a stacked dual volume pot, would allow you to get a blend instead of just on/off.
@@jonathanwong458music That is another solution to avoid drilling anything and would add more versatility. Not a fan myself of stacked knobs, specially for a live situation (I have it at a Sire bass), I hope the simple original circuit of the Mustang PJ would be enough. I will know in some weeks.
@@gilivatios That's the beauty of mods - make it exactly how you like it to to suit your playing and tonal needs! Best of luck in your mod!
Check out Italian Eko Vjb 3/4. The veterans of Italian electric guitars go strong: amazing quality/price ratio. 😎
if i'm buying Italian it's going to be a Paoletti. Modern Basses with Humbuckers, Roasted Maple Necks, Roasted Maple/Pau Ferro/Ebony Fingerboards with a 12" Radius and the bodies are made out of 100+ year old reclaimed chestnut from wine barrels. Not Cheap! 🍺🇨🇦🇮🇹
Cool suggestion! Thanks for watching!
@@christopherfidler3019 Good for you! Don't forget to request those platinum-plated, angel-tears coated strings with diamond ball-ends 🤣
@@AnnaSibirskaja Nah, Paoletti is no Fodera and Eko used to make good instruments back in the 60's but there is no need to import a cheap copy bass when there are plenty available in Canada. if you're going to import an instrument import a Paoletti or Luigi.
@@christopherfidler3019 Which cheap short-scale Jbass would you recommend to buy in Canada then? I really doubt "are plenty".
You like it better thant the Harley Bentons?
This particular one is great. So compared to the HBs I’ve had on the channel, yes I would! I’ve only ever seen this one, so I can’t comment on QC.
Thx for watching!
@@jonathanwong458music Thank You! I'm wondering what affordable flatwounds will fit this....now that I ordered one :)
It’s top load, so most flats advertised as ‘short scale’ should be good to go: eg D’addario chromes short, GHS short flats.
(Unlike string through mustangs that need medium scales. I have a video dedicated to short scale strings should you be interested!)
Let us know how you like yours! I’d love to hear of the quality control across the lines!
@@jonathanwong458music Very Helpful! I will report!
With all the warts, still a good deal . . .
Yeah, man! It's really the same warts found on most import basses under 1k. If we are to be really honest....you and I have probably found the same warts on US-made instruments at higher price points!! Short of my F Bass, almost every single bass that was shipped to me needed some degree of setup work. All that said, I think this particular Groove TM played WELL ABOVE its asking price. I'd happily gig with it! Maybe I got an above average example, but if they're all this good, go out and buy 'em!!
Thanks for watching!
@@jonathanwong458music That's the truth!
Tempting, there is one at 200$ near Montreal ..... AAAAARRRKKK !!! GASSING, again !!!!!
Are you able to try it out? If it’s anything like this blue one, 200 is a good buy! Good luck and thanks for watching!
@@jonathanwong458music I AM ON FIRE!!
Thanks for all the info, maybe Ill get the groove or make my own....
Have you tried their full scale P bass?
I have not. This was my first experience with any instrument from Groove. It does make me curious about how good their other P, J and Stingray style bass offerings are!
Thanks for watching!