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Schecter Johnny Christ Bass LH bass in Satin Black vs Schecter Michael Anthony MA-5 Bass bass in Gloss Natural
The Johnny Christ Bass LH is a left-handed 4-string with active EMG electronics optimized for aggressive metal and hard rock, while the MA-5 is a right-handed 5-string with passive dual Schecter pickups suited to funk, rock, and progressive styles. Choose the Johnny Christ if you're left-handed and prioritize articulate punch from active EQ; choose the MA-5 if you want extended low-end range and a warmer, more versatile passive tone.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Schecter Johnny Christ Bass LH bass in Satin Black
Schecter Michael Anthony MA-5 Bass bass in Gloss Natural
Specs side by side
| Schecter Johnny Christ Bass LH bass in Satin Black | Schecter Michael Anthony MA-5 Bass bass in Gloss Natural | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,449.00 | $1,449.00 |
| Brand | Schecter | Schecter |
| Body | Precision Bass | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 35" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 21 Frets | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | Active HH | — |
| Bridge | String-Through Body | — |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Schecter Johnny Christ Bass LH bass in Satin Black
- ✓ Left-handed configuration for southpaw players
- ✓ Active 2-band EQ with master volume and blend for aggressive tone shaping
- ✓ High-output EMG pickup system delivers punchy articulation in dense mixes
- ✓ Responsive 34" scale with ebony fretboard and narrow X-jumbo frets
Why choose Schecter Michael Anthony MA-5 Bass bass in Gloss Natural
- ✓ 5-string extends low-end range for deeper progressions and funk lines
- ✓ Passive dual pickup system (J-style bridge, P-style neck) offers warm depth with versatility
- ✓ 35" scale and thin C-profile neck reduce fatigue during extended sessions
- ✓ Swamp ash and koa construction with gloss finish reveals natural resonance and brightness
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for metal and hard rock?
The Johnny Christ Bass LH is purpose-built for metal with its high-output EMG electronics and articulate punch, making it ideal for aggressive playing. The MA-5 handles metal well but is more genre-versatile across rock, funk, and progressive music.
Can a right-handed player use either bass?
The Johnny Christ Bass LH is designed for left-handed players only. The MA-5 is a standard right-handed configuration suitable for the majority of players.
What's the difference in range and playability?
The MA-5 offers a 5-string configuration with 35" scale for extended low-end range, while the Johnny Christ is a 4-string with 34" scale. The MA-5's thin C-profile neck is slightly more ergonomic for extended sessions; both feature X-jumbo frets for comfortable reach.
How do the pickup systems compare for studio use?
The Johnny Christ's active EMG system with 2-band EQ provides aggressive high-output tone shaping ideal for dense studio mixes. The MA-5's passive dual Schecter pickups offer warmer, more traditional tone character with 3-way switching for versatility across multiple takes.