In the mid 1970s, Ovation Corporation were a highly innovative and disruptive force in the world of guitar making, having successfully transferred cutting edge helicopter technology from the parent Kaman company to their revolutionary range of electroacoustic guitars.

Having conquered that market, Ovation set sights on their next target ; solid – body instruments, and specifically, the top-end electric bass market. The outcome of this mission, the Ovation Magnum, was like nothing seen either before or since.

Bristling with innovation, the Magnum 1 featured extensive use of carbon fibre to reinforce and stabilise the neck, a unique pickup combination comprising what must be one of the largest units of all time immediately behind the neck, together with a horseshoe magnet pole arrangement at the tail, mono and stereo outputs, a floating high mass, fully calibrated bridge arrangement, and extremely high calibre hardware throughout – effectively, Ovation threw everything they had at the Magnum.

This example dates from 1977 per the potentiometer codes, and is in remarkable condition given its age. Apart from a few very minor dings (see photos), everything is present, correct and OEM. The neck is smooth and fast, and the ebony fretboard & fretwork are in prime condition, having benefitted from a recent professional setup. As the photos show, Ovation held nothing back when it came to build integrity and attention to detail - the craftsmanship is awesome.

The radical forward position of that front pickup produces expansive and articulate bass tone depth in spades, even down to the very lowest frequencies– and each individual pole’s output is adjustable, to achieve a perfect balance across the 4 strings. Spacey dub, Motown thud – the bottom end is nailed. Offsetting this, the equally unusual rear pickup can add in piano-like tones to the equation to provide a very wide sonic palette.

Included is the original Ovation hard case, which in itself is extremely well built and durable, compared to other types of the day.

In summary, despite its remarkable features, the Magnum series was a glorious failure commercially, but has left an enduring mark on the history of the bass guitar – with the focus on ‘bass’.

I personally have owned this bass guitar for over 25 years and kept it in great playable condition. Getting older now and it's time to thin the herd so I need to find it a new home. $2000 or best reasonable offer.