This G4M 972 6-String Fanned Fret Bass Guitar in Red Burl Burst is a modern extended-range instrument built around a dramatic multiscale layout, powerful active/passive electronics and distinctive burl-top styling.

The six-string format provides an extended B-E-A-D-G-C range, while the 34.5"–36.25" multiscale design progressively increases scale length towards the lower strings for improved tension and definition.

Its USA basswood body with poplar eye burl top is paired with a roasted maple neck and roasted maple fingerboard, while 24 stainless-steel frets, Luminlay side markers and individual bridge saddles reinforce the contemporary specification.

Two angled soapbar pickups feed an active/passive circuit with pickup blend and three-band EQ, giving the bass substantial tonal flexibility for modern rock, metal, progressive music, fusion and studio work.

This example is presented in Very Good Condition, weighs 10.44 lbs, and is sold without a case or gigbag.

At A Glance

Detail	Specification
Brand	G4M
Model	972 Fanned Fret
Strings	6
Finish	Red Burl Burst
Construction	Bolt-On
Body	USA Basswood
Top	Poplar Eye Burl
Neck	Roasted Maple
Fingerboard	Roasted Maple
Scale Length	34.5"–36.25" Multiscale
Radius	16"
Frets	24 Stainless Steel
Nut Width	Approx. 48mm
Pickups	2 x Angled Soapbars
Electronics	Active / Passive
EQ	3-Band Bass / Middle / Treble
Bridge	Individual Angled Saddles
Hardware	Black
Weight	10.44 lbs
Condition	Very Good
Included	Bass Only – No Case

Condition Overview

Very Good Condition

This G4M 972 6-String Fanned Fret Bass is presented in Very Good Condition.

It shows some cosmetic signs of previous use consistent with careful ownership while remaining fully functional and ready to play.

The instrument's finish, electronics, multiscale neck, frets and hardware have been checked as part of our pre-owned assessment.

What's Included?

✔ G4M 972 6-String Fanned Fret Bass Guitar Red Burl Burst

✘ No Case Included
✘ No Gigbag Included

No additional accessories are included unless pictured or stated.

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

This pre-owned bass has been checked for general operation and playability, including:

• Both soapbar pickups
• Pickup blend control
• Volume control
• Active/passive switching
• Bass EQ
• Middle EQ
• Treble EQ
• Output jack
• Neck condition
• Roasted maple fingerboard
• Stainless-steel frets
• Nut
• Tuning machines
• Individual bridge saddles
• General hardware
• Overall setup
• General playability

Service / Setup Work

All pre-owned basses at Fair Deal Music are checked for general setup and playability before leaving the shop.

Key areas assessed include:

• Action
• Neck relief
• Fret condition
• Intonation
• Tuning stability
• Pickup operation
• Active/passive electronics
• Bridge adjustment
• General playing feel

Significant changes in tuning or string gauge may require additional setup work, particularly on a multiscale six-string instrument.

What Makes The G4M 972 6-String Special?

The G4M 972 combines several modern features in one extended-range platform: six strings, fanned frets, roasted maple, stainless-steel frets, active/passive electronics and a figured burl top.

Its multiscale design is especially useful on a six-string bass because the low B benefits from a substantially longer scale while the upper strings remain more manageable for melodic and chordal playing.

Six-String Extended Range

The six-string layout provides the typical tuning:

B – E – A – D – G – C

Compared with a conventional four-string bass, this adds:

• Extended low B range
• High C string
• Wider chord voicings
• Greater melodic range
• More fingering options
• Reduced need for large position shifts

It is especially useful for progressive, fusion, solo-bass and technical playing styles.

34.5"–36.25" Multiscale

The six-string 972 uses a progressive scale of approximately:

34.5"–36.25"

Rather than giving every string the same scale length, the lower strings use a progressively longer scale.

This provides:

• Improved low-B tension
• Tighter low-frequency response
• Greater note definition
• More balanced string tension
• Familiar feel on the upper strings

USA Basswood Body

The body is constructed from USA basswood.

Basswood provides:

• Balanced midrange
• Controlled low frequencies
• Smooth upper response
• Good compatibility with active electronics

Poplar Eye Burl Top

The body is topped with poplar eye burl.

Its natural figuring is highlighted by the striking Red Burl Burst gloss finish, giving each example an individual visual character.

The back and sides are finished in contrasting black gloss.

Roasted Maple Neck

The neck is made from roasted maple and uses a modern D profile.

The natural satin neck finish provides a smooth playing surface, while the extended width accommodates the six-string layout.

Seven-Screw Bolt-On Construction

The 972 uses a substantial seven-screw bolt-on neck joint.

This creates a firm mechanical connection between the neck and body while retaining the clear attack associated with bolt-on construction.

Roasted Maple Fingerboard

The fingerboard is also made from roasted maple.

Features include:

• 16" radius
• 24 stainless-steel frets
• Black dot inlays
• Green Luminlay side markers

24 Stainless-Steel Frets

The bass features:

24 stainless-steel frets

This provides a full two-octave range on every string.

Stainless steel offers:

• Excellent wear resistance
• Smooth bending
• Clean fret surface
• Long-term durability

16" Fingerboard Radius

The fingerboard uses a relatively flat:

16" radius

This suits a modern extended-range bass particularly well and provides a comfortable surface for:

• Fast fingerstyle playing
• Chordal techniques
• Tapping
• Technical lines
• Wide-string-range navigation

48mm Nut Width

The six-string version uses an approximately:

48mm nut width

This accommodates the wider string layout while retaining relatively compact spacing for an extended-range bass.

Green Luminlay Side Markers

The neck uses green Luminlay side dots.

These provide improved visibility in dark stage environments and are particularly useful when navigating the angled fret layout.

Dual Angled Soapbar Pickups

The 972 uses two angled soapbar pickups.

Their orientation follows the multiscale geometry.

The pickups provide:

• Strong output
• Defined low-end response
• Clear mids
• Modern attack
• Broad frequency range

Neck / Middle Position Pickup

The forward pickup provides:

• Fuller low frequencies
• Warm fingerstyle tones
• Broad midrange
• Rounded clean sounds

Bridge Pickup

The bridge pickup provides:

• Greater attack
• Tighter lows
• More upper-mid presence
• Increased articulation
• Strong technical and high-gain tones

Pickup Blend Control

A continuously variable pickup blend control lets you move between the two pickups without using a conventional selector.

This allows detailed adjustment of the instrument's tonal balance.

Active / Passive Electronics

The G4M 972 can operate in both:

Active and Passive modes

The push/pull volume control switches between the two.

Active Mode

Active mode engages the onboard EQ for substantial tonal shaping.

Passive Mode

Passive operation offers a simpler signal path when onboard EQ is not required.

3-Band EQ

In active mode, the bass provides separate controls for:

• Bass
• Middle
• Treble

This allows the instrument to be adapted quickly for different:

• Amplifiers
• Recording setups
• Rooms
• Playing styles
• Musical arrangements

Individual Angled Bridge Saddles

Each string uses its own individual bridge saddle.

This arrangement follows the multiscale layout and allows each string's intonation to be adjusted independently.

Black Hardware

The bass uses black hardware throughout, complementing the Red Burl Burst and black body finish.

This includes:

• Individual bridge saddles
• Sealed tuners
• Strap buttons
• Pickup covers

Typical Six-String String Range

The six-string 972 specification uses a string set approximately in the:

.032–.135 range

This provides an appropriately heavy low B while retaining a lighter high C.

Weight

10.44 lbs

This is the actual measured weight of this individual bass.

For a six-string extended-range instrument with a wide neck and substantial hardware, the weight gives it a reassuringly solid feel.

A wide supportive strap is recommended for longer standing sessions.

Multiscale vs Conventional Bass

A conventional bass uses the same scale length for every string.

A multiscale design varies the length progressively.

Multiscale Advantages

• Increased low-string tension
• Improved low-B definition
• More balanced response
• Better string-to-string consistency
• Comfortable upper-string scale
• Natural ergonomic fret angle for many players

The angled fret layout can look unusual initially, but many players adjust quickly once they begin playing.

Who Is It For?

Six-string bass players – Extended B-to-C range provides considerably greater harmonic scope.

Progressive musicians – Excellent for complex arrangements and technical playing.

Metal bassists – Long low-B scale provides strong definition for heavy rhythm work.

Fusion players – High C and 24 frets provide a broad melodic register.

Solo bassists – Six strings make chordal and melodic arrangements much more practical.

Studio musicians – Active/passive operation and 3-band EQ provide useful flexibility.

Players interested in multiscale instruments – A feature-rich entry into extended-range fanned-fret basses.

Suitable Genres & Applications

Particularly well suited to:

• Progressive rock
• Progressive metal
• Modern metal
• Fusion
• Jazz
• Funk
• Alternative
• Technical rock
• Instrumental music
• Solo bass
• Chordal bass
• Studio recording
• Live performance

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	6-String Multiscale Electric Bass
Brand	G4M
Model	972 Fanned Fret
Finish	Red Burl Burst Gloss
Back / Sides Finish	Black Gloss
Number of Strings	6
Body Material	USA Basswood
Top	Poplar Eye Burl
Neck Material	Roasted Maple
Neck Construction	7-Screw Bolt-On
Neck Profile	D
Neck Finish	Natural Satin
Fingerboard	Roasted Maple
Fingerboard Radius	16"
Scale Length	Approx. 34.5"–36.25" Multiscale
Frets	24
Fret Material	Stainless Steel
Nut Material	Bone
Nut Width	Approx. 48mm
Side Markers	Green Luminlay
Pickup Configuration	HH
Pickups	2 x Angled Soapbars
Electronics	Active / Passive
Controls	Push/Pull Volume, Blend, Bass, Middle, Treble
Bridge	6 x Angled Individual Saddles
Tuners	Sealed Die-Cast
Hardware Finish	Black
Typical String Range	Approx. .032–.135
Weight	10.44 lbs
Included	No Case or Gigbag
Condition	Pre-Owned, Very Good

Model Specification Note

The G4M 972 range has been produced in several string-count and finish combinations.

This individual instrument is a six-string example in Red Burl Burst.

Current published G4M references show different colour options across the four-, five- and six-string variants, so this listing does not assign an unsupported production period to the Red Burl Burst six-string configuration.

Multiscale Setup Note

Multiscale basses use the same fundamental setup principles as conventional instruments, but the angled fret and bridge geometry needs to be taken into account when adjusting:

• Intonation
• Action
• Neck relief
• Pickup height

Significant changes in tuning or string gauge may require a corresponding setup.

Power Requirements

The onboard active electronics require battery power when used in active mode.

Passive operation is available using the push/pull volume control.

No external power supply is required or included.

Case Note

No case or gigbag is included.

Because of the extended six-string neck and distinctive body shape, compatibility should be checked carefully when choosing a replacement hardcase or gigbag.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

The G4M 972 6-String Fanned Fret Bass in Red Burl Burst offers an impressive collection of modern features in a striking extended-range instrument.

Its 34.5"–36.25" multiscale layout gives the low B additional tension and definition, while the high C, 24 stainless-steel frets and wide fingerboard provide an enormous melodic and harmonic range.

The roasted maple neck and fingerboard, dual angled soapbars, active/passive electronics and three-band EQ make it particularly capable for modern rock, progressive music, metal, fusion and recording applications.

The Red Burl Burst poplar eye burl top gives the bass plenty of visual impact, while the black hardware and body sides keep the overall aesthetic contemporary.

This individual bass weighs 10.44 lbs, is presented in Very Good Condition, and is sold without a case or gigbag.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Every pre-owned bass at Fair Deal Music is individually assessed so its condition, measured weight and included accessories are represented clearly.

This G4M is offered with:

• Very Good condition
• Six-string extended range
• Red Burl Burst finish
• Multiscale construction
• Active/passive electronics
• 10.44 lbs actual measured weight
• No case or gigbag included

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

When you buy from us, you benefit from:

• Family-run independent retailer established in 1987
• Birmingham's largest independent music store
• 6,000+ Trustpilot reviews
• Expert musician-led advice
• Pre-owned instruments individually assessed
• Clear condition grading
• Secure ordering
• Fast UK delivery
• Large Birmingham showroom
• Friendly support before and after purchase

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Your existing bass or other equipment could help towards your next purchase.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects, keyboards and other musical equipment.

Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation and find out what your current gear could be worth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this G4M 972 in?

It is presented in Very Good Condition, showing some cosmetic signs of careful previous use while remaining fully functional.

How many strings does it have?

This is the six-string version.

What is the typical tuning?

The standard six-string bass tuning is:

B-E-A-D-G-C

Is it multiscale?

Yes. It uses a fanned-fret multiscale layout.

What is the scale range?

The six-string 972 uses approximately 34.5"–36.25" scale lengths.

Why is the low B longer?

The longer scale provides greater tension and improved low-frequency definition.

What is the body made from?

It has a USA basswood body.

What is the top made from?

It has a poplar eye burl top.

What finish does it have?

This example is finished in Red Burl Burst with black back and sides.

What is the neck made from?

It uses a roasted maple neck.

What fingerboard does it have?

It has a roasted maple fingerboard.

How many frets does it have?

It has 24 stainless-steel frets.

What is the fingerboard radius?

It uses a 16" radius.

What is the nut width?

Approximately 48mm.

What are the glowing side markers?

It uses green Luminlay side dots for improved visibility in lower-light environments.

What pickups does it have?

It uses two angled soapbar pickups.

Is it active?

It offers both active and passive operation.

How do you select active or passive mode?

Using the push/pull volume control.

What controls does it have?

It has volume with active/passive push/pull, pickup blend and a three-band bass, middle and treble EQ.

Does active mode require a battery?

Yes.

Can it be played passively?

Yes.

What bridge does it have?

Each string uses an individual angled bridge saddle.

What string gauges does the six-string version use?

The six-string specification uses approximately a .032–.135 set.

How much does it weigh?

This individual bass weighs 10.44 lbs.

Does it come with a case?

No. No case or gigbag is included.

Is it suitable for metal?

Yes. The extended low B, long bass-side scale and active electronics make it particularly suitable for modern and progressive metal.

Is it suitable for chordal playing?

Yes. The additional high C string provides considerably more upper-register range for chords and melodic work.

Can I request a video demo?

Yes. Our Request a Video Demo service is ideal if you would like to see the Red Burl Burst finish and multiscale layout or hear the active/passive electronics before purchasing.

Can I part-exchange another bass against it?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers trade-ins and part exchanges across a wide range of instruments and musical equipment.