Yamaha Guitars premiered their new RBX4 A2 four-string electric bass at Winter NAMM. This innovative bass uses Yamaha’s Alternative Internal Resonance (A.I.R.) technology, also featured in the revolutionary RGX A2 electric guitar, to give players heavy sustain and resonance in a lightweight instrument. The RBX4 A2 is ideal for players looking for resounding sustain without the heavy weight typically associated with bass guitars.

Alternative Internal Resonance (A.I.R.) is a Yamaha exclusive construction technique. Offering the unique combination of an ultra lightweight wood core sandwiched between a hardwood top and a hardwood back, this combination allows the woods in the RBX4 A2 to vibrate freely and create a resonance and sustain that is much greater than the average guitar. The outstanding resonance is enhanced by special sound tubes, which connect the hardwoods with the softwood core across the instrument.

“The A.I.R. construction method is ideal for bass players,” said Armando Vega, product manager, Yamaha Guitars, Pro Audio & Combo Division. “Some of the musicians we’ve shown this to have been amazed by the sustain and resonance of this bass. In addition, players love them for their simple and contemporary looks.”

The RBX4 A2 is also equipped with two Yamaha single coil pickups, which are sonically matched to the instrument’s revolutionary body and designed by the Yamaha Guitar Custom Shop in Hollywood, Calif.

“Once again, Yamaha technology has shattered people’s perception of how guitars are made,” said Bryan Savage, marketing manager, Yamaha Guitars. “A.I.R. has proven that it is possible to build a great-sounding, highly resonant guitar without using heavy hardwoods.”

Available in white/aircraft gray as well as solid black, the RBX4 A2 features a bolt-on maple neck, 24-fret rosewood fingerboard and two single coil pickups sonically matched to the instrument’s body. The LED-illuminated pickup indicator lights, which increase their brightness in conjunction with the volume, add a high-tech look.

The RBX4 A2 is scheduled to ship in July 2007.

Please visit yamaha.com for more information.