YAMAHA BILLY SHEEHAN BEX-BS ELECTRIC BASS OFFERS BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

—Signature Model Features Classic Style, High Tech Active/Passive Electronics—

ANAHEIM, CA—In a continuing effort to develop new and innovative instruments in tandem with the industry's most respected musicians, Yamaha Corporation of America, Guitar Products, will unveil the Billy Sheehan signature model 4-string BEX-BS electric bass at Winter NAMM 2002. A collaboration between bass virtuoso Billy Sheehan and Yamaha Guitar Development (YGD), the BEX-BS contains a blend of classic and modern stylings, plus a true active/passive circuit, making it an ideal choice for the current wave of rock, fusion, and jazz players in search of their own look and sound.

On the surface, the BEX-BS is stunning. Featuring a unique single cutaway silhouette design, the semi acoustic body is constructed of Alder with a figured Sycamore top, and contains a 34-in. scale Maple neck, Rosewood fingerboard, cascading f-holes, and traditional pitched (2 per side) headstock. A Nickel plated medium mass bridge and Nickel plated Yamaha GB30 tuners, plus the option of Magenta or Honeyburst finishes complete the exterior appearance.

The real news is the electronics. 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 controlled by a backlit LED switch.

"The BEX-BS offers bass players the look and feel of a classic hollow body bass with the addition of a cutting edge, high tech circuit," states Ken Dapron, director, Yamaha Guitar Development. "It's really the best of both worlds."

Recognized as a musician with a trademark style that has changed the way the bass guitar is perceived and played, Sheehan began with Buffalo (NY)-based Talas in the early 1980's, later joining former Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth before forming international platinum-selling Mr. Big in 1989. He continues to write and tour extensively, and has enjoyed a relationship with Yamaha for over a decade.

"The BEX-BS has a look and sound that is unmatched by any other product on the market," adds Gary Cook, product manager, Yamaha Guitars. "Both Billy Sheehan and this signature instrument have taken the bass guitar to an entirely new level."

For more information on the Billy Sheehan signature model BEX-BS bass guitar, visit Yamaha at Winter NAMM 2002 in the Marquis Ballroom of the Anaheim Marriot Hotel; 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 or www.yamahaguitars.com.