YAMAHA BILLY SHEEHAN BEX-BS ELECTRIC BASS BLENDS THE CLASSIC WITH THE CUTTING-EDGE

—Signature Model Features Timeless Design, True Active/Passive Circuit—

Hot Design, Intelligent Electronics: BEX-BS

BUENA PARK, CA (July 19, 2002)—In a continuing effort to develop ground-breaking instruments in tandem with the industry's most respected musicians, Yamaha Corporation of America, Guitar Products, introduces the Billy Sheehan signature model 4-string BEX-BS electric bass. Blending the classic with the cutting-edge, the BEX-BS offers the combination of a stunning appearance and the addition of a true active/passive circuit. Designed in collaboration with Sheehan and Yamaha Guitar Development (YGD), the BEX-BS is currently available.

Features include a single cutaway silhouette design, a semi acoustic body constructed of Alder with a figured Sycamore top, a 34" scale Maple neck, Rosewood fingerboard, cascading f-holes, and traditional pitched (2 per side) headstock. A Nickel plated medium mass bridge, Nickel plated Yamaha GB30 tuners, and choice of Magenta or Honeyburst finishes complete the exterior.

Inside, the BEX-BS contains a new circuit featuring two humbuckers (neck and bridge position), two Volume and Tone controls, and the choice of active or passive formats, easily accessible from the backlit LED switch.

"The collaboration between Billy Sheehan and Yamaha has produced a real masterpiece," comments David Bergstrom, director of marketing, Yamaha Pro Audio and Combo Division. "It's a great option for the professional rock, fusion, or jazz player."

Sheehan has enjoyed a relationship with Yamaha for over a decade, and is recognized as a musician with a trademark style that has changed the way the bass guitar is perceived and played. Beginning his musical journey with Buffalo (NY)-based band Talas in the early 1980's, he later teamed with former Van Halen front man David Lee Roth. Sheehan formed the international platinum-selling Mr. Big in 1989 and continues to write, tour and conduct clinics extensively.

"This instrument offers bass players the best of both worlds with a look and feel of a classic hollow body, plus the addition of a high tech circuit," states Gary Cook, product manager, Yamaha Guitars.
For more information on the Billy Sheehan signature model BEX-BS bass guitar, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Guitar Products, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; email infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/guitars.