Let's dive deep into the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass, a popular choice for bass players seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance. This bass guitar is part of Lakland's Skyline series, known for offering high-quality instruments at a more accessible price point compared to their USA-made counterparts. If you're a bass player looking for that vintage J Bass tone with some modern reliability, the Lakland Skyline 55-60 could be a fantastic option.

Overview of the Lakland Skyline Series

Before we get into the specifics of the 55-60 Vintage J, it's good to understand where it fits within the Lakland lineup. Lakland basses are highly regarded for their build quality, playability, and tone. The Skyline series is their import line, manufactured in Korea and Indonesia to keep costs down, but still under strict Lakland quality control. This means you get a bass that captures much of the essence of a high-end Lakland without the premium price tag. Many players find the Skyline series to be an incredible value, offering professional-grade instruments that are gig-worthy and record-ready. The Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass specifically aims to recreate the vibe and sound of a classic Jazz Bass from the 1960s, but with some modern improvements in construction and hardware.

Key Features and Specifications

So, what makes the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass stand out? Here’s a breakdown of its key features and specifications:

Body

The body is typically made of ash or alder, depending on the finish and the year of production. Ash is known for its bright and resonant tone, while alder provides a more balanced and slightly warmer sound. The body shape is, of course, the classic J Bass design, comfortable and familiar to most bass players. The finish options vary, but often include classic colors like 3-Tone Sunburst, Black, and Olympic White, all with a gloss finish that gives it that vintage look.

Neck

The neck is usually made of maple with a rosewood or maple fingerboard, depending on the specific model. The neck profile is a slim and comfortable shape, often described as a Lakland’s own take on a vintage J Bass profile, making it easy to play for extended periods. It features a 35-inch scale length, which is a Lakland hallmark, providing a tighter and more defined low end, especially on the B string. The fingerboard radius is typically 10 inches, offering a comfortable balance between chording and soloing. The frets are well-dressed, ensuring smooth playability across the entire neck. A bone nut would be the perfect complement to the neck.

Pickups

The pickups are where the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass really shines. It comes equipped with Lakland J-type pickups, designed to replicate the sound of vintage Jazz Bass pickups. These pickups deliver a balanced and articulate tone with plenty of punch and clarity. They’re versatile enough for a wide range of musical styles, from classic rock and blues to funk and jazz. Many users praise these pickups for their ability to capture the essence of that classic J Bass sound without being overly noisy or harsh. The pickup configuration is, as you'd expect, the standard J Bass setup with one pickup near the bridge and one in the middle position.

Electronics

The electronics are straightforward and functional. It features a volume control for each pickup and a master tone control. This simple setup allows you to blend the two pickups to achieve a wide variety of tones. The pots are generally of good quality, providing smooth and responsive control over the volume and tone. Some models may feature upgraded electronics, but the standard configuration is more than adequate for most players. The wiring is clean and well-shielded, minimizing unwanted noise and interference.

Hardware

The hardware on the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass is solid and reliable. It features a Lakland bridge, known for its stability and sustain. The tuners are typically Hipshot Ultralite tuners, which are lightweight and precise, helping to keep the bass in tune. The combination of the bridge and tuners ensures excellent tuning stability, even with heavy use. The hardware finish is usually chrome or nickel, complementing the vintage aesthetic of the bass. Overall, the hardware is designed to be functional and durable, ensuring that the bass can withstand the rigors of gigging and recording.

Sound and Playability

Okay, so it looks the part, but how does the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass actually sound and play? Let's break it down:

Tone

The tone is where this bass really excels. The Lakland J-type pickups deliver a classic Jazz Bass sound with plenty of warmth, punch, and clarity. The bridge pickup provides a bright and articulate tone that's great for soloing and cutting through the mix, while the neck pickup offers a round and full sound that's perfect for laying down a solid groove. By blending the two pickups, you can achieve a wide range of tones, from a scooped mid-range sound for slap bass to a warm and mellow tone for jazz. The 35-inch scale length adds to the clarity and definition of the low end, making it ideal for modern playing styles. Whether you're playing fingerstyle, with a pick, or slapping, the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass delivers a versatile and inspiring tone.

Playability

The playability of the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass is another strong point. The slim neck profile is comfortable and easy to play, even for those with smaller hands. The 10-inch fingerboard radius provides a good balance between chording and soloing, and the well-dressed frets ensure smooth playability across the entire neck. The 35-inch scale length may take some getting used to if you're primarily a 34-inch scale player, but the added clarity and definition in the low end are well worth it. The overall balance of the bass is excellent, making it comfortable to play for extended periods, whether you're sitting or standing.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass:

Pros

• Vintage J Bass Tone: Captures the classic sound of a vintage Jazz Bass.
• Excellent Playability: Comfortable neck profile and well-dressed frets.
• High-Quality Construction: Made with quality materials and components.
• Versatile Sound: Suitable for a wide range of musical styles.
• Great Value: Offers high-end features at an affordable price.

Cons

• 35-inch Scale Length: May not be ideal for all players.
• Stock Electronics: While good, some players may want to upgrade.
• Imported: Not made in the USA, which may be a factor for some buyers.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass isn't quite what you're looking for, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass: The gold standard for modern Jazz Basses, made in the USA.
• Sadowsky MetroLine 21-Vintage J/J Bass: High-end J Bass with exceptional build quality and tone.
• Sire Marcus Miller V7 Vintage: Affordable J Bass with a vintage vibe and versatile electronics.

Who is This Bass For?

The Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass is an excellent choice for bass players who want a classic Jazz Bass sound with modern playability and reliability. It's suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from rock and blues to funk and jazz. It's also a great option for players who want a high-quality instrument without breaking the bank. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring beginner, the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass is definitely worth considering.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass is a fantastic instrument that offers a great blend of vintage tone and modern performance. Its high-quality construction, comfortable playability, and versatile sound make it a standout in its price range. While the 35-inch scale length may not be for everyone, the added clarity and definition in the low end are well worth it for many players. If you're in the market for a J Bass, the Lakland Skyline 55-60 Vintage J Bass should definitely be on your list.