FAQ

Questions about a build, shipping or payment? Here are the answers we're asked most. Anything else, email info@mcgrathguitars.com or call 858-287-5445. You'll be talking directly to Cormac or Madelyn, the two people who build your bass.

Custom builds

How long does a custom bass take?

Most Bass Builder orders ship in about 12 weeks. Builds with Nordstrand or DiMarzio pickups take about 14 weeks. In-stock basses ship within 2 to 5 business days.

What happens after I order?

We email you to go over every detail of your build before we start, so nothing is left to guesswork. Then Cormac builds it, Madelyn hand-paints or hand-stains the finish, and every bass gets a full setup and inspection before it's packed.

Can I change my specs after ordering?

Yes, until we confirm your specs and start your build. Just reply to your confirmation email or contact us.

Do you build left-handed basses?

Yes. Choose left-handed under Orientation in the Bass Builder.

What woods and scale lengths can I choose?

Bodies in alder, ash, basswood or mahogany, with a roasted flame maple neck reinforced with carbon fiber. Fingerboards in roasted flame maple or ebony. 4 or 5 strings, in 32" medium or 34" standard scale.

What are the McGrath Switch and Tilt EQ?

Our own electronics. The patent-pending McGrath Switch is a 12-way rotary pickup selector that gives you far more pickup combinations than a standard blend or 3-way switch, and the McGrath Tilt EQ is our active preamp. Pull the volume knob to bypass the preamp and play passive at any time.

Do active basses come with batteries?

No. For shipping safety we don't include batteries. Our active preamps run on two standard 9V batteries (18V), and the bass plays in passive mode without them.

What comes with my bass?

Every bass ships in a McGrath ProTec Hybrid Case, fully set up and ready to play.

Payment and pricing

Do I have to pay in full up front?

No. You can reserve your build with a 25% deposit and pay the balance about 100 days later, around when your bass is ready to ship. You can also pay over time with Affirm at checkout, subject to approval. See our Deposit & Payment Policy.

Are prices going up?

Yes. Bass Builder prices rise on January 1. Any build ordered, or reserved with a deposit, before then keeps the price you paid.

Is my deposit refundable?

Your deposit is fully refundable until we confirm your specs and start your build. After that the bass is made just for you, so it's non-refundable.

Shipping

How much is shipping?

Free on all US orders over $250, by UPS with tracking and signature on delivery. Every instrument is fully insured in transit.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, to 38 countries, including Canada, the UK, Europe, Japan and Australia, by UPS or DHL Express. Live rates are shown at checkout.

Will I pay customs duties on delivery?

No. Import duties and taxes are calculated and paid at checkout, so there are no surprise fees when your bass arrives.

Returns and support

Can I return a bass?

In-stock basses can be returned within 30 days of delivery. Please contact us first. Custom basses are built to your specs and can't be returned, but if anything arrives damaged or defective, we'll repair or replace it at no cost. See our full Refund Policy.

What if my bass arrives damaged?

Photograph the box and the bass straight away and contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We'll open an insurance claim and make it right.

Trying one out

Can I play a McGrath before I buy?

Yes. FretNation in Murrieta, SoCal Bass & Fx in San Marcos (both by appointment) and Pitbull Audio in National City stock our basses. See Where to Buy.