The Ibanez Bass Workshop UB804 redefines what an electric upright bass can be, blending familiar electric bass ergonomics with the expressive depth and nuance of an upright voice. Designed with a standard 34" scale length, the UB804 allows electric bass players to transition seamlessly into upright-style performance without relearning scale or hand positioning. Its compact maple body delivers impressive natural projection while remaining easy to transport, and the custom AeroSilk piezo pickup system captures the open, airy resonance that defines true upright tone. Purpose-built for both plucked and bowed playing styles, the UB804 stands as a highly playable, thoughtfully engineered instrument for musicians seeking upright expression in a modern, practical format.

Compact Maple Body and 34" Scale for Upright Feel With Electric Familiarity

The UB804’s design centers on approachability and balance. The 34" scale length preserves the feel and spacing electric bass players are accustomed to, making the shift to upright technique far more intuitive. The compact maple body is carefully contoured to provide excellent balance and comfort while still projecting a robust, natural acoustic tone. Maple’s inherent brightness and clarity help notes remain defined and articulate, even with the reduced body size. This streamlined form factor also makes transport significantly easier than a traditional upright, ideal for players who need upright character without the logistical challenges.

Conical Compound Fingerboard Radius for Bowing and Fast Plucking

A key element of the UB804’s playability is its conical compound fingerboard radius, which is specifically designed to accommodate both arco and pizzicato techniques. This profile allows the bow to track cleanly across individual strings while maintaining a fast, comfortable feel for plucked passages. The five-piece maple/walnut neck provides excellent rigidity, clarity and attack, ensuring stable performance and consistent response across the entire range of the instrument. A jatoba fingerboard contributes a focused midrange with a crisp high end, helping each note speak clearly whether played softly or with authority.

AeroSilk Piezo System for Authentic Upright Voice and Dynamics

At the core of the UB804’s sound is the Ibanez AeroSilk piezo pickup system, engineered to reproduce the natural air and resonance associated with upright bass. The custom AeroSilk MR5 bridge features specially designed saddles that work in direct harmony with the piezo elements, enhancing acoustic realism and responsiveness. This system faithfully translates subtle changes in touch, making it equally effective for expressive bowing and dynamic fingerstyle playing. A dedicated piezo active tone control allows precise shaping of the instrument’s voice while preserving its organic character.

Bass Workshop Craftsmanship and Upright-Specific Appointments

The UB804 is part of the Ibanez Bass Workshop series, a long-running initiative dedicated to innovative, purpose-driven bass design. Every element of this instrument reflects that philosophy, from its unconventional form to its specialized electronics and playability-focused construction. Upright-specific accessories are included to create a complete performance system: a padded gig bag designed to hold the bass, bow and stand, along with a custom TAMA Roadpro upright stand for stable, reliable support. These thoughtful inclusions reinforce the UB804’s role as a serious, performance-ready instrument rather than a novelty.

The Ibanez UB804: Upright Expression Without Compromise

The Ibanez Bass Workshop UB804 offers a compelling solution for bassists who want authentic upright tone and technique in a more accessible, modern format. With its familiar scale length, compact yet resonant maple body, upright-optimized fingerboard design and highly responsive AeroSilk piezo system, it delivers expressive depth without sacrificing comfort or portability. Whether expanding your tonal palette, transitioning into upright performance or seeking a travel-friendly alternative to a full acoustic upright, the UB804 provides a refined, inspiring platform built for exploration and musical growth.