1.2 Short-Scale Bass: A Modern Upgrade with Classic Inspiration

The Brooks 1.2 short-scale bass is the latest creation from luthier Rob van den Broek, showcasing a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, aesthetics, and functionality. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Gibson Les Paul Bass, the Brooks 1.2 reimagines van den Broek’s original Brooks 1 design with several thoughtful upgrades, making it a standout choice for bass enthusiasts.

At the core of the Brooks 1.2 lies a 30.5-inch scale length, ideal for players seeking a more compact and comfortable playing experience. The chambered body is crafted from two pieces of premium mahogany, offering a rich tonal foundation with reduced weight. The body is further adorned with a stunning bookmatched flamed maple top, finished in a deep Wine Red. The addition of cream-colored binding accentuates the red hue, creating a striking visual contrast.

The neck is constructed from three pieces of mahogany, ensuring stability and resonance. It is fitted with a smooth rosewood fingerboard featuring 24 frets and classic white dot inlays for effortless navigation. A bone nut completes the neck setup, enhancing the instrument’s tonal clarity and sustain.

One of the most significant upgrades from the original Brooks 1 is the electronics. The Brooks 1.2 is equipped with a pair of Artec Sidewinder AlNiCo humbuckers, renowned for their warm and dynamic sound. These pickups are paired with a six-way rotary switch, allowing players to explore a wide range of tonal possibilities by selecting different coil configurations. Additional controls include a master volume knob and a discreetly positioned tone pot for further sonic refinement.

Hardware appointments include Hipshot tuners for precise tuning stability and a Guyker two-point bridge that ensures optimal string alignment and sustain. These features, combined with the instrument’s meticulous craftsmanship, result in a bass that is as functional as it is beautiful.

With its classic inspiration and modern enhancements, the Brooks 1.2 short-scale bass is a testament to Rob van den Broek’s dedication to excellence. Whether you’re performing on stage or recording in the studio, this instrument promises exceptional playability and tonal versatility.

Specifications:

• Scale: 30.5 inches
• Body: Chambered two-piece mahogany
• Top: Bookmatched flamed maple
• Neck: Three-piece mahogany
• Fretboard: Rosewood
• Nut: Bone
• Inlays: Dot
• Frets: 24
• Pickups: Artec Sidewinder humbuckers (AlNiCo)
• Controls: Volume, hidden tone pot, six-way rotary switch
• Tuners: Hipshot
• Bridge: Guyker two-point
• Finish: Wine Red

The Brooks 1.2 exemplifies how modern upgrades can elevate a classic design, offering musicians an instrument that is both timeless and innovative.