I while back I picked up the Sandberg California II VM4 Nighthawk from Thomann, and I have to say – this bass is by far the best instrument I have ever played.
Build & Finish:
Right out of the box, the bass feels premium. The matte black finish and black glossy hardware is visually stunning – a bold look without being over-the-top. It has that sleek, stealthy vibe that turns heads but still feels professional on stage or in the studio. The craftsmanship is flawless – from the fretwork to the neck pocket fit. The maple neck is smooth as butter and the satin finish on the back makes it incredibly fast and comfortable.
Playability:
This bass is a dream to play. The balance is spot-on, with no neck dive, and it feels surprisingly lightweight for a bass with such solid construction. The neck profile is modern but not too thin – it has just the right amount of heft. Setup from the factory was excellent; super low action, no buzzing, and intonation was dialed in.
Sound:
Here’s where the VM4 Nighthawk really shines. The VM pickup configuration (split P-style in the neck and a MM-style humbucker in the bridge) offers incredible tonal versatility. The P pickup delivers that classic, punchy low-end growl that cuts through the mix, while the bridge pickup brings in a snappy, aggressive edge when you need it. The 2-band active EQ is powerful but musical – it enhances without coloring the natural tone too much. Passive mode is also excellent; the tone doesn’t drop off – it just gets a bit rounder and more vintage. Very usable.
Whether I’m laying down funk grooves, digging into rock lines, or going more ambient and textural in post-rock contexts, the Nighthawk handles it all with ease.
Overall:
The Sandberg California II VM4 Nighthawk is a beast – elegant, powerful, and built for serious players. It’s the kind of bass that invites creativity and delivers pro-level performance every time you pick it up. If you want something with character, bite, and beauty – this might be your next go-to.
