SCHECTER2297 vs SCHECTER451 — Compare
Schecter FreeZesicle-4 bass in Freeze Purple vs Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Bass bass in Gloss Natural
The Freeze Sicle 4 offers active electronics with a 3-band EQ for versatile tonal shaping and punchy studio/funk work, while the Michael Anthony MA-4 delivers passive simplicity with warm, natural P/J voicing suited to rock and funk purists. Choose the Freeze Sicle for players who want maximum EQ control; choose the MA-4 for those preferring the authentic resonance of wood and straightforward pickup switching.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Schecter FreeZesicle-4 bass in Freeze Purple
Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Bass bass in Gloss Natural
Specs side by side
| Schecter FreeZesicle-4 bass in Freeze Purple | Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Bass bass in Gloss Natural | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,399.00 | $1,399.00 |
| Brand | Schecter | Schecter |
| Body | Precision Bass | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 34" Scale | 34" Scale |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | Active HH | — |
| Bridge | String-Through Body | — |
| Year | 2023 | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Schecter FreeZesicle-4 bass in Freeze Purple
- ✓ Active 3-band EQ with master volume and tone for extensive tonal sculpting
- ✓ Dual EMG pickups (35J/35P) deliver tight articulation and clear definition ideal for studio precision
- ✓ 24 narrow-jumbo frets with narrower string spacing for technical playing
- ✓ Carbon fiber reinforced maple neck reduces neck dive and increases stability
Why choose Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Bass bass in Gloss Natural
- ✓ Passive P/J pickup configuration expresses natural wood resonance without active circuitry coloration
- ✓ Koa top on swamp ash body creates warm, woody character and striking visual appeal
- ✓ Simpler electronics (volume/tone/3-way switch) offer intuitive, fast control during live performance
- ✓ 21 extra-jumbo frets with slightly wider spacing for comfortable hand positioning
Frequently asked questions
Which bass is better for studio work?
The Freeze Sicle 4 excels in studio due to its active 3-band EQ, allowing precise tone shaping and the punchy attack ideal for tracking. The MA-4's passive design prioritizes natural wood resonance, which some studios prefer for organic character but offers less tonal control.
What's the difference in neck feel?
Both feature thin C-shaped necks, but the Freeze Sicle has a slightly narrower profile (21–23mm) with 24 narrow-jumbo frets and 38mm nut width for tighter spacing. The MA-4 measures 0.787–0.866 inches with 21 extra-jumbo frets and a 1.496" nut, offering slightly more string spacing.
Which suits funk better?
The Freeze Sicle 4 is specifically listed for funk and delivers tight articulation and clear definition through its EMG pickups and active EQ, ideal for percussive funk lines. The MA-4 is equally suited to funk but emphasizes warm, natural voicing over punch, appealing to players who favor organic tone.
Are the pickups passive or active?
The Freeze Sicle 4 uses active dual EMG pickups powered by an 18-volt battery with a 3-band EQ. The MA-4 uses passive dual Schecter MonsterTone pickups (P/J configuration) with no battery or active circuitry required.