Seizing on the success of affordable import guitars in the '60s, Japanese manfuctuer Matsumoku produced as many guitars as they could for the '70s and '80s USA guitar market. Much more than worn-out copies of the same old American-made guitars, Matsumoku's designs, features, and various brands introduced new ideas, and the workmanship sincerely rivaled their USA-made counterparts. In today's vintage market, these intriguing—albeit slightly whacky—axes are great-sounding guitars that provide a different, somewhat off-beat inspiration.
Matsumoku started building the Washburn-branded Wing Series in 1978, and the Vulture II supplied the low-end of the lineup. With a long 34" scale, the Vulture II features the same small double-cutaway body and finish as the Vulture II guitar, most notable for its through-body neck design. This 1980 Washburn Vulture II bass sports a sunburst finish that shows off the high-level workmanship, displaying the many pieces of wood that came together to into one seriously cool carved-top bass. When you flip it over, the contoured neck heel provides unique access into the upper register. At the time it was made, this carved-out heel was unlike anything else you would've seen at the guitar shop—certainly a strong selling point for the Washburn brand!
For electronics, this 1980 Vulture II features the highly-versatile PJ pickup configuration. But while the bridge J pickup is in the traditional location, the neck P pickup is closer to the neck than on a traditional P setup. With a three-way switch, you're able to alternate between the pickups quickly, no need blend them with the volume controls. But of course, in the middle position, you can blend them all you want. Plus, independent tone controls give you more flexibility to dial in the right sound. Combined with the unique construction and impressive craftsmanship, the electronics further separate the Vulture II from contemporary American-made axes.
This 1980 Washburn Vulture II shows some signs of use and play wear. The original tuners have been upgraded to genuine Grovers. There are a few dings around the top edge (see photos), and the worst of the cosmetic wear is on the treble side/back edge right by the input jack. The playability is just rigth because the neck is straight, allowing for smooth, low action. With the gold thumb rest mounted to the top, this Washburn Vulture II looks stylish and upscale. We love the speed knobs, and how the sunburst contrasts with the cream plastic pickup covers. This bass has a lot to offer, and it includes a hardshell case.
This 1980 Washburn Hawk shows some signs of use and play wear. The original tuners have been upgraded to genuine Grovers. There are a few dings around the top edge (see photos), and the worst of the cosmetic wear is on the treble side/back edge right by the input jack. The playability is just rigth because the neck is straight, allowing for smooth, low action. With the gold thumb rest mounted to the top, this Washburn Hawk looks stylish and upscale. We love the speed knobs, and how the sunburst contrasts with the cream plastic pickup covers. This bass has a lot to offer, and it includes a hardshell case.