Hmmm, this music store-brand bass looks interesting (Don R. Miller & Co)-PICS!

[Denis]

Normally copycat P-basses don't do anything for me, but I rather like the look of this one.

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/msg/3715213271.html

[Basvarken]

Shortscale?

[Chris P.]

A friend of mine had a bass years ago which, I think, was very similar and of the Maya brand.

[nofi]

looks like a great deal from here, amp included. and you know that brass hardware means high quality. take a break from overpriced gibsons and gamble 300 bucks on this baby. i'll bet you like it.

[gearHed289]

Seems like a steal! Good looking late 70s period piece.

[gweimer]

$300 for the bass and the amp isn't a bad deal at all.  I remember liking those Peavey TNT combo amps.  I recorded through one once.

[Dave W]

As long as everything's working okay, that's a real deal.

[Denis]

So I called Don's Music City in Burlington, NC. They confirmed that they've had electric basses, electric guitars and even acoustic guitars made for them since the 1970s. The kid I spoke with on the phone didn't know many details so gave me Don's email address and I sent him the pics.
I'll be interested to know what he comes back with. My gut feeling is that with the brass nut, brass bridge and what looks like neck through construction, this thing might be a real sleeper, perhaps not unlike the Curlee basses.

Stand by for more info.

[uwe]

Is it neck-thru or does it just pretend to be?

[Denis]

Not sure, but it sure looks like it is.

[copacetic]

I would grab that before too long if you like that shape and Fenderesque sound. The deal with the amp pushes it right over the top. The only enquiry I would make is on the weight of the bass if that is an issue.

[Denis]

Going to look at it tonight.

Just got an email back from Don at Don's Music City.
He wrote :
"Dennis, this is a good bass: with the neck thru the body and a maple core in center of body. It looks as though it has been taken care of!  Made in Japan, Passive pick-ups, do not know the age, possibly the 70's.
Don"

[Pilgrim]

I love the look!

[Denis]

Okay, so I checked it out. Honestly, this thing is really nice. Excellent condition but not without a few dings. Front strap button out of the bass but in the case (marked with a Don R. Miller & Co. sticker).

The owner had it 10 years in storage at his parents' house, along with the Peavey TNT. The case is beat up but protected the bass. Brass nut, brass bridge, neck through construction. The wings are maple sandwiched between what looks like mahogany. It's really sweet looking. And it SOUNDS terrific!

I got the bass and amp for $280 after all.

[Nocturnal]

Looks like you got a great deal Denis!!