Tanglewood NL6PBL Northstar Littlestar Mini Classic Bass Guitar, Thru Blue

Thru Blue, with a compact bass body

Blue is the first thing you notice on the Tanglewood NL6PBL. It is a mini bass in the Northstar Littlestar series, finished in a vivid Thru Blue gloss. It gives you the look of a classic bass in a size that suits younger players and beginners, and it makes a handy travel bass too.

The finish

The translucent blue lets the poplar show through, adding depth that a flat colour cannot match. It looks lively, and it stands out in a rehearsal room.

Light on the hands

Its 760mm scale is shorter than usual for a bass, so strings sit under less tension and the frets are closer together. You can learn without strain. The maple neck has a caramel stain and the Techwood fingerboard feels smooth. The compact body is easy to hold.

Tone and parts

The poplar body gives a solid, balanced tone with a warm low end that stays clear. A single coil soap-bar pickup handles the output, and chrome die cast machine heads hold the pitch.

A gentle start

Thick bass strings and a long neck can put off a small player. A compact bass lets you focus on notes and rhythm. Those skills carry over to a larger bass later on.

Who will enjoy it

Parents buying for a child will like the manageable size. Guitarists adding a second instrument can use it to try bass without spending a lot. It also suits a player who wants a light bass for rehearsals, school music rooms or the back of the car. A small bass amp is all you need beside it to get started.

• Offset body shape in poplar
• 760mm scale length
• Single coil soap-bar pickup
• Chrome die cast machine heads

It is an easy way into bass. The NL6JP is the same instrument in Thru Purple, so choose on colour. Add a bass amp and a lead to get going. Delivery is free across the UK.