Question 1

What Fernandes bass series were there?

Accepted Answer

The main bass lines are the Atlas, Gravity, Tremor, Vertigo Bass, Vortex Bass, Vulcan Bass, Monterey Bass, Ravelle Bass, Retrospect, Triturador, and the Tony Campos signature. They range from classic-style workhorses to aggressive metal machines.

Question 2

Do Fernandes basses come in 4 and 5 string?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many series were offered in both 4 and 5 string, and the model name usually shows it (for example Atlas 4 Deluxe and Atlas 5 Deluxe). Pick the string count that fits your tuning and range needs.

Question 3

Are Fernandes basses active or passive?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the model. The Deluxe and higher tiers often used active electronics with EMG or Seymour Duncan pickups for a modern, punchy tone, while some models kept simpler passive setups. Check each model card for its pickup and electronics spec.

Question 4

Which Fernandes basses are best for metal?

Accepted Answer

The Tremor, Triturador, and the Tony Campos signature were built with heavy music in mind, with aggressive tone and, on the Triturador, an onboard EBS distortion circuit. The Vertigo and Vortex basses also lean into that territory.

Question 5

What is the Tony Campos signature bass?

Accepted Answer

It is a signature Tremor X built for Tony Campos, the bassist known for his work with Static-X, Soulfly, Ministry, and Prong. It is designed to be heavy and punchy enough to cut through a loud band.

Question 6

What scale length are Fernandes basses?

Accepted Answer

Most use a standard 34" bass scale, which suits standard and moderate down-tunings. If a particular model differs, it is noted on its spec. For very low tunings, pair the scale with an appropriate string set.

Question 7

What pickups do Fernandes basses use?

Accepted Answer

Higher tiers frequently used EMG actives or Seymour Duncan Basslines humbuckers, while others used Fernandes’ own bass pickups. Some models add flexible switching (series, parallel, and split) for extra tonal range.

Question 8

What woods are Fernandes basses made from?

Accepted Answer

Common choices were ash, alder, and maple bodies, with maple necks and rosewood or ebony fingerboards. The Deluxe and neck-through models used higher-grade woods for tone and sustain.

Question 9

Are Fernandes basses heavy?

Accepted Answer

Weight varies with the body wood and construction. Neck-through and ash-bodied models can be on the heavier side, while alder-bodied models tend to be more moderate. If weight matters to you, ask the seller for the actual figure.

Question 10

Is the Sustainer available on Fernandes basses?

Accepted Answer

The Sustainer is primarily a guitar feature and was not a standard part of the bass line. If you want the Sustainer, look at the electric guitar range instead.

Question 11

How do the bass tiers (Deluxe, X) differ?

Accepted Answer

As with the guitars, Deluxe models sit higher with better woods, active electronics, and premium pickups, while X models are the more affordable, straightforward versions. The tier is usually part of the model name.

Question 12

Are used Fernandes basses reliable?

Accepted Answer

The Japanese-built models are well regarded. On any used bass, check the neck relief and frets, test the electronics (especially active circuits and battery boxes), and confirm the hardware is intact. Buying from a seller with a return policy lowers the risk.

Question 13

How much do Fernandes basses cost used?

Accepted Answer

Prices range widely by model, tier, era, and condition. Entry-level basses are affordable, while Japanese-built Deluxe models and signatures command more. Compare recent sold listings for the exact model to judge a fair price.

Question 14

How can I tell a Japanese-made Fernandes bass?

Accepted Answer

Look for a "Made in Japan" marking, clean construction, and quality hardware. Serial formats vary across eras, so cross-check the serial with seller photos and community resources rather than relying on the number alone.

Question 15

Where can I buy a Fernandes bass?

Accepted Answer

On the used market. Reverb is the most reliable place, with trusted sellers who ship internationally. Search for the exact series and string count you want, and check origin and condition before buying.

Bass Guitars

Atlas Series

Atlas 5 Deluxe

Atlas 4 Deluxe

Atlas 4 X

Atlas 5 X

Gravity Series

Gravity 4 Deluxe

Gravity 5 Deluxe

Gravity 4 X

Gravity 5 X

Nomad Series

Nomad Bass

Monterey Bass Series

Monterey Bass 4 Deluxe

Monterey Bass 5 Deluxe

Monterey Bass 4 X

Monterey Bass 5 X

Ravelle Bass Series

Ravelle Bass Deluxe

Ravelle Bass Deluxe 2008

Ravelle Bass X

Retrospect Series

Retrospect 4 Deluxe

Retrospect 5 Deluxe

Retrospect 4 X

Tony Campos Signature Series

Tony Campos Tremor 5 Deluxe

Tony Campos Tremor 5 X

Tremor Series

Tremor 4 Deluxe

Tremor 5 Deluxe

Tremor 4 X

Tremor 5 X

Triturador Series

Triturador Deluxe

Vertigo Bass Series

Vertigo Bass Deluxe

Vortex Bass Series

Vortex Bass Deluxe

Vulcan Bass Series

Vulcan Bass Deluxe

Fernandes bass guitars: FAQ