We've all been there, browsing through those "secondhand buyback stores." Sure, they're not selling brand-new gear, but that's where the real fun is – you never know when you'll stumble upon a hidden gem! Japan, especially, is packed with these kinds of shops, making it a treasure hunt for that long-sought-after item.
Well, recently on X (formerly Twitter) in Japan, one user decided to consign something truly out of this world at a Hard-Off secondhand store in Hachioji City: a "17-string bass." The post immediately blew up, sending the internet into a frenzy!
Turns out, the user, Ok bass, is actually a bassist and YouTuber who's previously shared videos of himself shredding on this very "17-string bass." Earlier this year, ZZ Top bassist Elwood Francis also made waves by rocking a "17-string bass" during a concert.
▼ ZZ Top bassist Elwood Francis wielding his "17-string bass" at a concert.
Of course, basses can pretty much be custom-ordered with any number of strings you can dream up – if you've got the will (and the cash), it can be built! American YouTuber Jared Dines even showcased a mind-boggling 36-string bass in the past.
But let's be real, for the average person, a bass like this is practically unheard of. So when Ok bass revealed he was consigning his "17-string bass" at Hard-Off, netizens were naturally captivated. The burning question on everyone's mind: who on earth would actually buy this thing?!
Ok bass himself demonstrated playing a melody using two-hand tapping while seated, and the footage instantly grabbed attention. Comments poured in like: "Just playing it looks impossible..." and "Is that even a bass anymore?!" But, of course, some couldn't resist a good roast: "Changing strings would be pure hell," and "Seriously, who's actually going to buy this?!"
This 17-string bass is currently a store exclusive, with its price still under wraps. Many believe it'll snag the attention of collectors. But let's be real, if someone does snag this instrument, it's probably more for the sheer novelty and entertainment value... because how many bassists out there can truly tame – or even need – that many strings?