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Schecter Johnny Christ-5 Bass Signature 5-String Electric Bass Satin Black vs Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Electric Bass Gloss Natural
The Johnny Christ-5 is a 5-string instrument built for aggressive metal and djent styles with active electronics and a punchy tone, while the MA-4 is a 4-string passive bass designed for rock, funk, and studio work with warm, natural resonance. Choose the Johnny Christ-5 if you play metal or need five strings; choose the MA-4 if you want classic four-string versatility and a traditional passive tone.
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Schecter Johnny Christ-5 Bass Signature 5-String Electric Bass Satin Black
Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Electric Bass Gloss Natural
Specs side by side
| Schecter Johnny Christ-5 Bass Signature 5-String Electric Bass Satin Black | Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Electric Bass Gloss Natural | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,399.00 | $1,399.00 |
| Brand | Schecter | Schecter |
| Body | Modern Bass | — |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Strings | 5 | 4 |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Pickup Configuration | P/J | — |
| Year | 2017 | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Schecter Johnny Christ-5 Bass Signature 5-String Electric Bass Satin Black
- ✓ 5-string configuration expands low-end range for modern metal and djent
- ✓ Active EMG electronics deliver aggressive articulation and cutting high-end
- ✓ 35-inch scale and wider 1.771-inch nut spacing optimize fast, precise playing
- ✓ Ergonomic ash body and ebony fretboard built specifically for metal contexts
Why choose Schecter Michael Anthony MA-4 Electric Bass Gloss Natural
- ✓ 4-string format lighter and more familiar for rock and funk players
- ✓ Passive Schecter USA MonsterTone pickups produce warm, woody character without coloration
- ✓ Beautiful Koa top with Swamp Ash body adds visual appeal and tonal warmth
- ✓ Simpler electronics (volume/tone/3-way) easier to dial in and maintain live
Frequently asked questions
Which bass should I choose if I play both rock and metal?
The MA-4 suits traditional rock and funk better; the Johnny Christ-5 is optimized for heavier styles. If you split time between rock and metal, the Johnny Christ-5's five strings and active electronics lean toward aggressive playing, while the MA-4 excels in groove-based rock and studio work.
What's the key difference in electronics?
The Johnny Christ-5 uses active EMG electronics with 2-band EQ and master blend for aggressive tone shaping. The MA-4 uses passive Schecter USA MonsterTone pickups with a simple volume/tone/3-way switch, letting the wood resonate naturally without preamp coloration.
How do the neck and scale lengths differ?
The Johnny Christ-5 has a 35-inch scale with a 1.771-inch nut width for wider string spacing in fast metal playing. The MA-4 has a standard 34-inch scale with a narrower 1.496-inch nut, designed for traditional rock and funk four-string comfort.
Which bass has better wood construction?
Both use quality wood; the MA-4 features a visually striking Koa top on Swamp Ash, contributing warmth and resonance. The Johnny Christ-5 uses ash with an ebony fretboard for durability and articulate tone but prioritizes playability over visual appeal.