About Us

At New York Bass Works, we’re more than just a bass guitar company—we’re a community of players, makers, and listeners bound by a shared pursuit of musical excellence. We don’t just build instruments; we build lasting relationships with the musicians who trust us to put something exceptional in their hands.

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With immense pride, we present the New York Bass Works Reference Series—our vision of the ultimate Jazz Bass® platform. These instruments embody decades of experience, passion, and a deep respect for the legacy of the original design—tempered by an unflinching desire to move the art forward.

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The story of the Reference Series begins with frustration—the kind only a serious player and vintage enthusiast could understand. In the early days of extended-range basses, options were limited and compromises were many. That frustration fueled the vision of David Segal: a working bassist, luthier, restorer, and collector who had spent years exploring the subtle differences between hundreds of vintage instruments. Few people have handled more Jazz Basses®, and fewer still have studied them so intently.

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David’s mission wasn’t just to replicate a classic—it was to elevate it. In 1997, he founded New York Bass Works to pursue a new standard in tone, feel, and craftsmanship. The Reference Series represents the culmination of that journey: a refined instrument that honors the past, serves the modern player, and continues to evolve with our vision.