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Apart from his original designs such as the Consat, Betra, mBass, Diva, Tiuzz, Contra, etc., German luthier Gerald Marleaux released a few years ago a more traditional orientated type of bass and he named it Votan. It soon became a best seller because of the perfect combination of traditional shape and dimensions, flawless construction, top tonewoods and components, etc. It became the perfect choice for those looking for a traditional looking bass with modern appointments.

This is the latest version of that model and it is called Votan XS

With a slightly smaller body it feels incredibly comfortable. Two Delano JSBC pickups caputre that trademark JJ sound in passive mode with excellent definition and character. Marleaux's ultra quiet preamp allows for Bass and Treble Boost/Cut. This it simple and effective, and each EQ band does what it is supposed to do: deep lows that never get muddy and crisp highs that never get aggressive.

Passive tone works only in Passive tone but that's on purpose. You can set an incredible Jaco sound using just the bridge pickup with the tone completely rolled down (the 0.22 microfarad capacitor helps here too) and jump to a monster 70's slap sound just by bringing the Balance pot to the middle and pulling up the Volume pot to select Active Mode (which you will have previously set for a slight Bass boost). Simply amazing- Perfect Jaco and Marcus sounds at the flick of two pots.

In this case this bass is superlight too and the Vintage White color is incredibly classy. Top quality hardware is used, of course (ETS bridge and Schaller tuners).

By the way, the tortoise pickguard is not fixed with screws so it's completely up to you whether you install or not (double sided tape is also an option if you don't want a permanent installation). Pickguard screws are of course included.

What's not to like?

Oh yes, and the low B is just perfect. It's not easy to find a traditional styled bass and 34" with a string low B but this one delivers

To sum up: familiar shape, responsive, comfortable, great sounding and great looking. If you are looking for the definitive traditional bass but you cannot find one that plays really well, has a completely noise free operation and has an amazing low B, this might be the perfect bass for you.