I'm holding a serious unicorn — a Carl Thompson 4-string Scroll Bass with a 36-inch scale and cocobolo top, spotted at Miki Gakki Bass Side in Osaka for ¥2,420,000 (roughly ~$16,000 USD depending on exchange rate).
🔥 Why This Bass Is Rare & Special
1. Carl Thompson = Legend
Carl Thompson is a Brooklyn-based luthier who hand-builds every bass himself — often taking years to complete. He's most famous for building instruments for Les Claypool (Primus) and Stanley Clarke. Each bass is totally custom, one-of-a-kind, and built to Carl’s uncompromising standards.
2. Scroll Bass = Signature Model
The Scroll Bass is Carl’s iconic design. Instantly recognizable by its upper bout "scroll" (like a violin), it’s not just about looks — it changes the weight distribution for balance and tone. It's also a nod to traditional luthier craftsmanship.
3. 36-inch Scale = Extended Clarity
Most basses are 34” scale. A 36” scale gives greater string tension, more harmonic clarity, and punchier low end. That also makes it a bit more challenging to play — it’s a bass for serious players.
4. Cocobolo Top = Exotic & Stunning
Cocobolo is a rare tropical hardwood, highly prized for its density, figure, and tone. It’s extremely difficult to work with, which makes it an expensive upgrade. The tone is rich and warm, and the look? Just look at that top — deep reddish-brown with natural oil sheen. Breathtaking.
5. Used Carl Thompson in Japan?!
These never show up in stores, especially not in Japan. Most owners commission directly and rarely let them go. Miki Gakki scoring one — and offering it used — is like seeing a McLaren F1 in a neighborhood dealership.
TL;DR
Brand: Carl Thompson
Model: 4-String Scroll Bass
Scale: 36-inch
Top: Cocobolo (exotic tonewood)
Condition: Used (in excellent shape from the pics)
Price: ¥2,420,000 (~$16K USD)
Where: Miki Gakki Bass Side, Osaka
