Gear / Bass

Carl Thompson 4-string

On 1 sourced rig at ToneLineage.

Who uses it

Les ClaypoolEarly Primus: the Carl Thompson 4-string 1980s–1990
Carl Thompson 4-string, 9-9-80 (walnut/mahogany, 32" scale): Builder's page: the first of seven CTs Les owns, a fretted 32-inch-scale piccolo with one EMG-35DC. Carl Thompson Basses (builder): Les Claypool's Carl Thompson basses ↗
Carl Thompson 4-string (years of main use): Claypool: he spent a lot of years on the Carl Thompson four-string and loved it, but you tailor your playing to it. Vintage Guitar: Les Claypool interview ↗

Affordable clones & alternatives

Affiliate links. ToneLineage may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Approximate new prices from zZounds listings checked 2026-10-21; they change.

Squier Sonic Precision Bass Guitar, Laurel Fingerboard~$270 new approx.
Squier Classic Vibe '60s Precision Bass, with Laurel Fingerboard~$530 new approx.

Budget clone: Squier Classic Vibe '60s Jazz Bass
Boutique clone: Fender Custom Shop / Sadowsky Jazz

Suggested alternative Clones are editorial suggestions, not claims about what any artist uses.

Buy the real thing

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