1982 RG4 (BT4)

This is a prototype of BT4, which was released directly from Ken Smith's workshop.

Ken Smith with Vinny Fodera / 1982 RG4 (BT4)

Column "Ken Smith and the Development of the Electric Bass" (in Japanese)

Ken Smith" has been developing the foundation of today's electric basses since his workshop was established in 1978.
Here is a 1982 RG4 (BT4) from the Ken Smith workshop.

The 1982 Smith basses were made by Ken Smith and Vinny Fodera, with Vinny mainly in charge of wood shaping and painting.
The current Smith looks quite different, with an angular head, metal plate, and Schaller pegs.
The bridge is a BADASS bridge, as it was before the development of the original bridge, and you can see the trend of the bass scene at that time.

In terms of sound, compared to the current Smith, the center of gravity is set lower, giving the impression of a playful sound.
Therefore, it is not specialized for jazz, but has a character suitable for pop/funk/rock music as well.
Also, the "kero kero sound" synonymous with Smith can be maximized by the phase switch, and as Ken himself said, this is the foundation of the current SMITH basses.

The condition of the neck and electrical system has been adjusted by our repairman and is in good condition.
The neck is straight and the string height is 1.6mm at the last fret and 1.3mm on the 12th fret.

This is a proto model before BT4 became the official model name.
It is very rare to experience a bass made by "Vinny Fodera" before the establishment of Fodera workshop.

SPEC
BODY: Flamed Maple / Mahogany or Rosewood
NECK: Flamed Maple / Mahogany 5P
FINGERBOARD: Ebony
SCALE: 34"
NUT WIDTH: 37mm
P.U.: Ken Smith Original Humbucker
PRE-AMP: Ken Smith Original 9V
CONTROL: 2Vol / 2Band EQ / PU SW / Phase SW / Pre-Amp SW
WEIGHT: 4.45kg
CASE : Hardshell Case
5-year premium adjustment warranty
All parts are disassembled and cleaned.

Contact: Naito