2025 Carl Thompson 36" 4-String Fretless Bass # 52225

Carl Thompson started out making his 1st lightweight bass guitar in 1974 for his personal consumption. Once he made his 1st clients  special orders he was in permanent business. I have been a fan of his since I saw a new one for sale at my local fave guitar store, Gracin’s in Hempstead Long Island, I was in love ! After more than 50 years building basses for the likes of Les Claypool (from the band Primus) & of course myself a few years back, he’s completely retired as of 2025. This stunning example of Carl’s genius was completed by Carl’s full time master builder & final employee, Joe Kruse, on May 22, 2025. In my humble opinion, this Full Frills 36″ 4-string Fretless masterpiece is the pinnacle of Carls original philosophy…simplicity, lightweight & no frets ! Its choice of Black Walnut are nothing short of outstanding. Its mahogany neck has an ebony’board bound in rosewood w/Padouk headstock veneers front & back. It’s like a 36″ Jazz Bass that’s slick smooth & on steroids. Its body sculpturing is super thin & featherweight. It’s also sporting Carl’s ultra desirable 3-D Scroll cutaway design. It’s got a Kent Armstrong pickup in it which was Carls fave. It also has an extra Bartolini pickup in an extra wood casing if desired. Its 2 choice of pickups are perfect for funky jazz, Latin & fusion & blew me away. This ones staying in my collection for life.