Simpson Bass is one of the most exciting boutique discoveries of recent years: handcrafted E-Basses from Italy, developed by CLive Simpson (British instrument maker, lives/works in Italy). At the latest since the Guitar Summit in Mannheim the brand is on the radar of many bassists – not as a 'vintage copy', but as an independent idea between Archtop Tradition and modern stage practice.Amazona.de+1
Short profile: What does Simpson Bass stand for?
On the manufacturer’s website, Simpson Bass describes the approach as ‘modern hybrid between an archtop and a solid body bass’ – with real archtop/hollowbody construction, without center block or sound post, to promote vibration and 'integration' while playing. My Site+2My Site+2
Additionally, there are modern features: ergonomic body shapes ('no sharp edges'), contemporary hardware/electronics, and various versions (4/5-string, fretted/fretless). MySite+1
History of the company: From the 80s to the current boutique series.
The 'About us' history is unusually well documented:
- 1981: Clive Simpson builds the first SBI – quite futuristic for the time: headless and fretless, mini tuners arranged in a fan shape behind the bridge. My Site
- 1995: Next comes the SBII: still headless/fretless, larger poplar body, Through-neck and Steinberger-licensed tuner/bridge. My Site
- 1998: First plans for the later SBIII semi-electric are created – but first end up 'on the shelf'. My Site
- 2020: Pandemic break + 'time to build': plans are updated, development starts, the first prototype becomes a success. My Site
- from 2022: Expansion of the model family: SBIV Funkmaster (24 frets, ergonomic/modern) and later SBV Groovemaster as a 'laid-back' passive bass with an old-school vibe. MySite+1
- 2024: Colored (including sunburst) variants are added. My Site
This explains why Simpson Bass is 'new to the market', but not 'new in concept': the ideas behind it have been maturing for decades.
The current models: SBIII, SBIV, SBV (overview)
1) SBIII semi-electric (FT/FL/F – 4/5-string, fretted/fretless)
The signature idea of Simpson: Archtop vibe + solidbody power. International media highlight exactly this mix. No Treble+1
In specs/lists, among others, appear Noll 3-band EQ, a humbucker (e.g., Dreamsongs) as well as a piezo bridge (mentioned with Warwick 3D saddles) – so clearly 'modern' in feel and output. No Treble+1
2) SBIV Funkmaster (solidbody, 24 frets)
The 'Need more frets?' bass: 24-fret, ergonomic, designed for versatility. MySite+1
In dealer listings, among others, black limba body, laminated neck, and high-quality hardware (e.g., Schaller 3D bridge) are mentioned. reverb.com+1
3) SBV Groovemaster (passive vibe, 'laid-back')
The deliberately 'decelerated' counterpoint: conceived passively, round lines, 'original vibe' – still for stage & studio. MySite+1
Test reports & international press: What do the media say about Simpson Bass?
No Treble (USA): 'Bass of the Week' – SBIII-FT
No Treble presents the SBIII-FT as 'super interesting' and emphasizes the 'modern hybrid' idea as well as the real archtop construction without center block. This is exactly the point that distinguishes Simpson from many semi-hollow basses. No Treble
Amazona.de (DE): Guitar Summit 2025 – New discovery from Italy
Amazona calls Simpson Bass a 'new discovery' at the Guitar Summit in Mannheim and describes the combination of modern aspects and traditional instrument-making art. Price ranges are also mentioned (semi-electric roughly in the range of €3,000–3,500, solid body about €1,600–2,000, depending on the model). Amazona.de
Manufacturers & Community/Video Reviews
On the website, Simpson Bass refers in the review section to BassTheWorld (YouTube) – useful for getting sound examples and playing feel 'in real time'. My Site
Additionally, there are performances/videos, e.g., with Jacopo Ferrazza.YouTube+1
Which famous musicians play Simpson Bass?
Important: Simpson Bass is boutique – the 'classic' endorser list like that of mass brands is not always fully documented publicly. However, what can be clearly proven is:
- Dario Deidda (Italian jazz bassist) is mentioned in the German press as a musician who counts among Simpson's customers. Amazona.de
- Jacopo Ferrazza plays/shows the SBIII concept in videos and is also mentioned in the context of 'Bass of the Week'. YouTube+1
If you want, I can also give you a clean 'artist list' research (only with verifiable sources/statements - e.g. interviews, press, manufacturer posts).
Where to buy in Germany?
As of now, you can find Simpson Bass in Germany most reliably through these ways:
- Directly from the manufacturer (order/request)
Simpson Bass sells through its own website, including shipping/returns information and contact for (also) wholesale inquiries. MySite+1 - Reverb (also available as '.de')
There are Simpson listings on Reverb, e.g., the SBIV Funkmaster. This is convenient for buyers in Germany because Reverb is internationally oriented. reverb.com - Fairs/Events in Germany
Simpson Bass was a topic at the Guitar Summit in Mannheim (Press reports). Those who like to try boutique instruments have the best chances for direct contact there.
Here is the manufacturer's website: https://www.simpsonbass.com/
