Yamaha SILENT Bass SLB300 / SLB300 PRO Owner's Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Yamaha "SILENT Bass™". The SLB300 series is a new type of electric upright bass that achieves natural sound and resonance using the SRT POWERED system. This system reproduces studio-quality sound by capturing the body resonance of a double bass with a high-quality microphone, while maintaining a semi-solid body structure for quietness and portability. The SLB300 PRO is a high-end model offering a premium appearance and enhanced natural sound and playability through carefully selected parts.

To ensure you get the maximum performance and enjoyment from this product, please read this Owner's Manual thoroughly before use. Keep this manual and the warranty in a safe place for future reference.

Contents

• Included Accessories: 7
• Parts and their Names: 8
• Setup: 12
• Preparing the Power Supply (How to Replace Batteries): 16
• Connection Example: 17
• Turning the Power On and Off: 18
• About the Mute: 18
• Changing Strings: 19
• Putting the Bass into the Soft Case: 21
• Specifications: 22

FCC INFORMATION (U.S.A.)

1. IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS UNIT!
   This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions, meets FCC requirements. Modifications not expressly approved by Yamaha may void your authority to use the product.
2. IMPORTANT: When connecting to accessories or other products, use only high-quality shielded cables. Supplied cables MUST be used. Failure to follow installation instructions could void your FCC authorization in the USA.
3. NOTE: This product has been tested and found to comply with FCC Regulations, Part 15 for Class "B" digital devices. Compliance ensures reasonable assurance that use in a residential environment will not cause harmful interference with other electronic devices. This equipment generates/uses radio frequencies and, if not installed and used per the manual, may cause interference. Compliance does not guarantee interference will not occur in all installations. If interference occurs, try relocating the product or affected device, using different power outlets, installing AC line filters, or reorienting antennas. If problems persist, contact an authorized retailer or Yamaha Corporation of America.

* This applies only to products distributed by Yamaha Corporation of America.

(class B)

COMPLIANCE INFORMATION STATEMENT (Supplier's declaration of conformity procedure)

Responsible Party: Yamaha Corporation of America

Address: 6600 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, Calif. 90620

Telephone: 714-522-9011

Type of Equipment: Electric Upright Bass

Model Name: SLB300

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: 1) it may not cause harmful interference, and 2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

* This applies only to products distributed by Yamaha Corporation of America.

(FCC SDoC)

CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

(can_b_02)

PRECAUTIONS

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE PROCEEDING

Please keep this manual in a safe and handy place for future reference.

WARNING

Always follow the basic precautions below to avoid serious injury or death from electrical shock, short-circuiting, damages, fire, or other hazards.

Do not open

• This instrument contains no user-serviceable parts. Do not open or attempt to disassemble or modify internal components. If malfunctioning, discontinue use immediately and have it inspected by qualified Yamaha service personnel.
• Repairs or part replacement should only be attempted if instructions are provided in the manual.

Water warning

• Do not expose the instrument to rain, use it near water, in damp conditions, or place liquid containers on it. If liquid seeps into the instrument, turn off the power immediately and have it inspected by qualified Yamaha service personnel.

Fire warning

• Do not place burning items, such as candles, on the unit, as they may fall and cause a fire.

Battery

• Follow precautions to prevent explosion, fire, overheating, or battery fluid leakage.
• Do not tamper with or disassemble batteries.
• Do not dispose of batteries in fire.
• Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries.
• Keep batteries separate from metallic objects.
• Use only the specified battery type.
• Use new batteries of the same type, model, and manufacturer.
• Always insert batteries with correct polarity (+/-).
• When batteries run out or if the instrument is unused for a long time, remove the batteries.
• When using Ni-MH batteries, follow their instructions and use only the specified charger.
• Keep batteries away from small children who might swallow them.
• If batteries leak, avoid contact with the fluid. If fluid contacts eyes, mouth, or skin, wash immediately with water and consult a doctor, as battery fluid is corrosive.

If you notice any abnormality

• If the instrument emits unusual smells or smoke, if an object is dropped into it, if sound suddenly cuts out, or if cracks/breakages occur, immediately turn off the power (remove batteries if applicable) and have the device inspected by Yamaha service personnel.

Handling warning

• Be careful not to pinch fingers or hands when moving movable parts.

About the supplied soft case

• Do not carry the soft case over your shoulder while riding a motorcycle or bicycle, as it could cause an accident.

CAUTION

Always follow the basic precautions below to avoid physical injury or damage to the instrument or property.

Assembly

• Assemble the instrument in the proper sequence as per instructions. Regularly tighten screws or bolts to prevent damage or injury.

Transport / Installation

• Before moving, remove all connected cables to prevent damage or tripping hazards.
• Do not stand the instrument in an unstable place; lay it on the floor. Unstable positioning can cause it to fall and result in damage or injury.
• Handle the neck and body when moving. Handling by the side plate unit only may cause malfunction.

Handling caution

• Do not insert fingers or hands into gaps on the instrument. Be careful of the frame unit and accessories pinching fingers.
• Do not rest weight on, or place heavy objects on the instrument. Do not use excessive force on buttons, switches, or connectors.
• Keep small parts out of reach of infants to prevent accidental swallowing.
• Avoid prolonged use at high or uncomfortable volume levels to prevent permanent hearing loss. Consult a physician if experiencing hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
• String ends are sharp; use caution when changing strings.
• When changing or adjusting strings, do not put your face close to the instrument, as a string may break suddenly, causing eye injury or other accidents.

Connections

• Before connecting to other electronic components, turn off the power for all components. Set all volume levels to minimum before turning power on or off.
• Set component volumes to minimum and gradually raise controls while playing to set the desired listening level.

About the supplied soft case

• Do not swing the supplied soft case or strap, as this could cause an accident.

Yamaha is not responsible for damage caused by improper use or modifications.

Always turn off the power when the instrument is not in use. Dispose of the product according to local authorities. Discard used batteries according to local regulations.

NOTICE

To avoid product malfunction/damage or damage to other property, follow these notices:

Handling

• Do not expose the instrument to excessive dust, vibrations, extreme cold or heat (e.g., direct sunlight, near heaters, in cars) to prevent panel disfiguration, internal component damage, or unstable operation.
• Do not use the instrument near TVs, radios, stereo equipment, mobile phones, or other electric devices, as this may generate noise.
• When cleaning, use a soft cloth. Do not use paint thinners, solvents, alcohol, cleaning fluids, or chemical-impregnated wiping cloths.

About the supplied soft case

• Do not use the soft case to store instruments other than the one it is intended for.
• Do not drop or subject the soft case to strong shock with the instrument inside, as this may damage the instrument.
• Do not expose the soft case to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures, as this may result in discoloration or deterioration.
• Do not place near oils or chemicals, as they may deteriorate the cover.
• Do not use the soft case if it is torn or split.

About this manual

• Illustrations are for instructional purposes only and may differ slightly from your instrument.

Model No. [Space for Model Number]

Serial No. [Space for Serial Number]

(rear_en_01)

Included Accessories

After opening the packaging, please check that all parts are included:

• Main body x 1
• Frame unit x 1
• End pin x 1
• Mute x 1
• Allen wrench x 1
• Soft case x 1
• Owner's Manual (this document) x 1
• List of service locations x 1

* Two AA batteries (alkaline or nickel hydride) are required.

Optional Accessories

• Stand for SILENT Bass™ (BST1)
• Knee support for SILENT Bass™ (BKS2)
• Extension frame for SILENT Bass™ (BEF2)

Inquire with your authorized Yamaha dealer to purchase optional accessories.

Parts and their Names

Front

Diagram showing the front of the SILENT Bass, labeling: Tuning peg, Nut, Fingerboard, Neck, Frame unit, Pickup (inside the slot on the side of the body), 4th string (E), 3rd string (A), 2nd string (D), 1st string (G), Body, Bridge, Escutcheon, Tailpiece, Saddle, Tail wire, End pin stopper, End pin.

Rear

Diagram showing the rear of the SILENT Bass, labeling: Frame unit armrest, Frame unit fixing knob 1, Controls (refer to page 9), Frame unit fixing knob 2, Battery Case/Output Jack Section (refer to page 9).

Battery Case/External Output (LINE OUT) Jack

Diagram of the battery case and external output jack. Shows placement for two AA batteries (alkaline or nickel hydride). An illustration shows connection to external devices like a Mixer, recorder, bass amplifier, powered speaker, or electric tuner.

NOTICE:

• Sound will not be output if you connect headphones to the LINE OUT jack.
• When making connections to the LINE OUT jack, use a standard monaural phone plug cable.

Controls

Diagram of the control panel with numbered controls: 1. [POWER] (power switch), 2. [VOLUME] knob, 3. Status display LED, 4. [TREBLE] knob, 5. [BASS] knob, 6. [BYPASS] button, 7. [BLEND] knob, 8. [MIC TYPE] button.

[POWER] (power switch)

This switch turns the built-in SRT POWERED preamplifier on and off.

NOTE:

• Power turns on only when a plug is inserted into the LINE OUT jack. If no plug is inserted, power remains off regardless of the switch position.
• If the power switch is off with a plug inserted, the Piezo Pickup signal is directly output (passive output). This is for emergency situations without batteries or for sound reproduction on external devices like preamplifiers.
• During passive output, the SRT POWERED preamplifier does not operate, and control knobs are disabled except for the power switch.

Power Switch and LINE OUT Jack Status Correspondence Table

NOTE:

• When using passive output with the power switch off, signal output decreases with cable length. With the SRT POWERED preamplifier on, cable length has minimal effect.

NOTICE:

• Turn the power off or lower the output volume of any connected amplifier or speaker before turning this product's power on or off.

[VOLUME] knob

This adjusts the volume.

Status display LED

Located beneath the volume control knob, this displays BYPASS function status, SRT POWERED microphone type, and remaining battery power. The LED status can be checked from a diagonal viewing angle.

[TREBLE] knob

Adjusts the level of upper frequencies (TREBLE) using a peaking filter. Turn right for a brighter sound suitable for bands; turn left for a soft, natural sound for bowing.

[BASS] knob

Adjusts the level of lower frequencies (BASS) using a peaking filter, primarily for the 3rd and 4th strings. Turn right for more low frequencies for a warm sound; turn left to cut low frequencies for a cleaner sound that complements other low-pitched instruments.

[BYPASS] button

This button bypasses all controls except [VOLUME] of the SRT POWERED preamplifier, allowing instant switching between processed SRT POWERED sound and the dry signal. The LED for the status display is lit green when bypass is enabled.

NOTE: Use the bypass function with the power switch on to output dry sound during active output.

[BLEND] knob

Adjusts the mix between the pickup signal and the simulated microphone signal. Turn fully left for 100% pickup signal; turn fully right for 100% simulated microphone signal.

[MIC TYPE] button

Selects the microphone type to simulate in the SRT POWERED system. Press and hold the [BLEND] knob (microphone type switching button) until the status display LED flashes to change the type. Types cycle: 1 → 2 → 3 → 1. A quick press shows the current type via flashes.

• Microphone type 1: Rich - Well-balanced, rich sound from a classic vintage vacuum-tube microphone.
• Microphone type 2: Simple - Clear, clean sound from a dynamic microphone.
• Microphone type 3: Warm - Warm sound with low-frequency emphasis from a famous vacuum-tube microphone, different from type 1.

Setup

Tuning

The SILENT Bass™ is shipped with the bridge in place and strings slightly loosened. The bridge height is set for average height. Bridge position may shift during transport; adjust it properly before tuning.

• The lower side of the bridge supports the 1st string (G), the higher side supports the 4th string (E). The sharper curve should face the fingerboard when playing. (Fig. 1)
• The correct bridge position has the surface facing the tailpiece at a right angle to the body surface where the bridge rests. Position the bridge so its legs do not contact the escutcheon (plastic part). (Fig. 2)

[Fig. 1: Looking from the tailpiece] Diagram showing the bridge with grooves for strings, indicating 1st string (G) and 4th string (E).

[Fig. 2: Bridge stands vertically to surface A] Diagram showing correct and incorrect bridge placement relative to the body and tailpiece, emphasizing the right angle. Surface A is where the bridge rests; Surface B is not.

Adjustments If the Bridge Is Leaning

• After tuning, check if the bridge surface facing the tailpiece is vertical to the body surface. If leaning, slightly loosen strings and use both hands to raise the bridge.
• If the tailpiece leans to one side when viewed from the front after tuning, slightly loosen all strings, manually straighten the tailpiece, then increase string tension evenly and retune.

Illustration showing how to fix a leaning bridge by adjusting strings and tailpiece.

Bridge Height Adjustment

Bridge height can be adjusted using the metal adjusters. Turn clockwise to lower, counter-clockwise to raise. (Fig. 3)

[Fig. 3: Adjusting bridge height] Diagram showing metal adjusters for bridge height adjustment, indicating higher/lower and clockwise/counter-clockwise rotation. Note: Adjust both legs to the same height.

NOTICE:

• Before adjusting bridge height, loosen strings to relieve pressure on adjusters. Rotating adjusters without reducing string tension can damage the bridge or strings.
• Ensure both bridge legs are at the same height. Unequal height can cause poor surface contact, inferior sound quality, noise, or damage. (Fig. 3 *3)

String Tuning

Strings are tuned to the following pitches: 1st string (G), 2nd string (D), 3rd string (A), 4th string (E). Use a piano, tuning fork, or tuner to adjust pitch using the tuning pegs.

Illustration showing tuning pegs and indicating lower/raise pitch for each string.

Tuning machine tension adjustment

Tuning machine tension regulates tuner pressure and can be adjusted with the supplied Allen wrench.

• If tuning machine turns with very slight pressure: Rotate adjustment screw clockwise (A).
• If tension is tight and tuning machine is hard to turn: Rotate adjustment screw counter-clockwise (B).

Diagram showing adjustment screws A and B on the tuning machine.

Attaching the Frame Unit

The SILENT Bass™ is shipped with the frame unit removed. Attach it to the main body using the following procedure.

WARNING: Be careful not to pinch fingers or hands when moving the upper arm support and arm section of the frame unit.

Installation Procedure

1. Open the upper arm support on the frame unit until it contacts the stopper.
2. With the frame unit's arm section (fixing screw 2) closed (raised), gently slide the indentation of the frame unit's upper part in the direction of "2 Slide".
3. Tighten fixing screw 1.
4. Rotate the arm section counter-clockwise to open it, and insert fixing screw 2 into the holder on the bass instrument.
5. Tighten fixing screw 2 to secure the frame unit.

Frame attachment is complete. Reverse the procedure to remove the frame unit.

Diagram illustrating the steps for attaching the frame unit, showing opening the arm support, sliding the unit, tightening fixing screws 1 and 2, and the final secured frame unit.

CAUTION: When transporting, always hold by the neck and body. Holding by the frame unit only may damage it.

NOTICE: Securely tighten fixing knobs 1 and 2. Loose attachments can cause rattling or noise during performance.

About the End Pin

The end pin is shipped removed from the main body and stored in the soft case. Before use, loosen the end pin stopper, insert the end pin, determine a comfortable playing height, and securely tighten the end pin stopper.

Illustration showing the end pin being inserted and the end pin stopper being tightened or loosened.

NOTICE:

• Ensure the end pin stopper is secured firmly to prevent the instrument from falling.
• The end pin is designed to fit at an angle and cannot be fully inserted for optimal performance. Forcing it or subjecting it to impact can damage internal parts. Proceed slowly and carefully.

Attaching the Optional Accessories

Knee Support for the SILENT Bass™ (BKS2)

The BKS2 Knee Support allows the instrument to be leaned against the left knee when playing while sitting. Align the metal frame unit's end with the matching indentation on the knee support and secure with three screws. (Fig. A)

[Fig. A] Diagram showing the attachment of the Knee Support (BKS2) to the frame unit.

Extension Frame for the SILENT Bass™ (BEF2)

The BEF2 Extension Frame widens the frame unit for greater instrument support. Secure the support with two screws. (Fig. B)

[Fig. B] Diagram showing the attachment of the Extension Frame (BEF2) to the frame unit.

NOTICE:

• Before attaching/removing optional parts, remove the frame unit from the bass and place on a stable surface.
• Before playing, ensure optional parts are not loosely attached.

Preparing the Power Supply (How to Replace Batteries)

The SILENT Bass™ uses batteries for power. Before installing or removing batteries, disconnect the cable from the output jack.

1. On the backside, push the battery case latch in the "OPEN" direction to remove the case.

Diagram showing how to open the battery case and insert AA batteries with correct polarity (+/-).

NOTICE: Tilt the instrument body when removing the battery case to prevent it from flying out.

2. Insert batteries into the case, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) alignment as per the illustration.
3. Push the battery case in fully until it clicks.

When to Replace the Batteries

• When batteries are low, the status display LED flashes red. Replace batteries promptly.
• With nickel hydride batteries, discharge properties may cause power to turn off before the LED flashes red.

WARNING: Be careful when replacing batteries.

• Battery shapes vary by manufacturer. Inserting a battery with a different shape may damage the instrument. Poor contact can cause a fire.
• Always follow polarity signs (+/-) when inserting batteries. Improper insertion can cause a fire.
• If not using the instrument for a long period, remove batteries to prevent drainage or damage from leakage.

Connection Example

Connect this product to an external device as shown in the example.

• Turn off power for all devices before making connections.
• When connecting, check the jack shape and use a cable that meets the standards. Make the connection firmly.

Diagram showing the rear of the main body connected via a standard monaural phone plug to various external audio devices: Bass amplifier, Mixer, DI, Preamplifier, Audio interface.

* All illustrations and figures are for instruction purposes. Actual specifications may vary.

Turning the Power On and Off

With a plug inserted into the LINE OUT jack, push the [POWER] switch up to turn on, and down to turn off. The status display LED will flash when the power turns on.

NOTE:

• To prevent battery depletion, turn the power switch off after use and remove the cable.
• The product can be used without batteries by turning the power switch off (passive output) and connecting to an external device supporting passive output. For external devices, use a device (DI, etc.) with an input impedance of 10 MΩ or higher. Insufficient output or frequency characteristics may occur if input impedance is lower.

NOTICE: To prevent faults and noise, be careful about the order of turning power on/off and making connections.

Order for Turning the Power Switch Off and Making Connections (Example)

1. Lower the channel level on the output device (e.g., PA).
2. Turn off the product's power switch.
3. Disconnect the product and the output device.
4. Connect the product and a DI or similar device already connected to the PA.
5. Check that the channel level on the output device for the DI is lowered.
6. Turn on the switch of the DI or similar device.
7. Raise the channel level on the output device for the DI.

About the Mute

The SILENT Bass™ pickup system can pick up string vibrations between the bridge and tailpiece. If this sound is bothersome, attach the supplied mute onto the strings as shown.

Diagram showing the mute being attached to the strings, midway between the bridge and the tailpiece.

The effectiveness of the mute is reduced if it is attached midway between the bridge and the tailpiece.

Changing Strings

Use Double Bass strings. The SILENT Bass™ uses a string length of 1,040 mm (41").

CAUTION:

• String ends are sharp and can cut fingers. Use caution.
• When changing or adjusting strings, do not put your face close to the instrument. A string may break suddenly, causing eye injury or other accidents.

NOTICE: Do not remove all strings at once. Change strings one at a time.

Winding the Strings

1. Hook the string's ball end into the string hole on the tailpiece, ensuring it is securely positioned. If the ball end is larger than the hole, thread the opposite end through the hole from the back side of the tailpiece.
2. Pull the string down toward the end pin, wrap it around the end of the tailpiece into its groove, and pull it up over the bridge.

Diagram showing the string's ball end being hooked into the tailpiece.

3. Insert the string end into the peg hole, turn the peg, and make one or two wraps to one side, then the remaining wraps in the opposite direction. For 1st (G) and 2nd (D) strings, wraps should be to the left of the hole. For 3rd (A) and 4th (E) strings, wraps should be to the right.

Diagrams illustrating winding the 3rd/4th strings and 1st/2nd strings onto the tuning pegs, showing correct wrap direction and number of winds.

NOTICE:

• Before winding, stand the bridge vertically to the body surface.
• Ensure each string is in its corresponding groove on the bridge.
• Adjust string length so it does not rub against the pegbox wall during tuning, which could break the string.
• When winding, be careful not to pull the bridge down towards the fingerboard.

4. Turn the pegs to tune the strings to match a piano, tuning fork, or tuner. Refer to "Tuning" (page 12) for more information.

NOTICE: When not using the instrument for a long period, slightly loosen strings before storage. Always use the product with the bridge standing vertical to the surface it rests on; leaning can shorten service life and reduce sound quality.

Diagram showing correct and incorrect bridge posture relative to the body.

Putting the Bass into the Soft Case

When storing the bass, remove the frame unit and end pin and store them separately in the soft case as shown.

Illustration showing the main unit, frame unit, and end pin stored inside the soft case. The end pin is secured with a Velcro cover, and the bow is placed in its hard case within a pocket secured by Velcro.

Use the Velcro® cover to secure the end pin. Place the bow in its hard case, then place the hard case in the pocket and secure with the Velcro® fastener.

NOTICE: The soft case is for carrying and protecting from dust. It does not ensure the safety of the bridge or other parts. Placing the bridge surface downward, placing objects on the case, or subjecting it to impact can damage the product.

Specifications

* This document explains the latest specifications at the time it was issued. The latest edition can be downloaded from Yamaha's website.

Contact Information

Yamaha Global Site: https://www.yamaha.com/

Yamaha Downloads: https://download.yamaha.com/

© 2019 Yamaha Corporation

Published 08/2021