Novo Ivorus Bass 3-Tone Sunburst

This is our first bass from Novo Guitars, and after playing this one, it won't be our last.

While it seems hard to believe when we think back on it, we've been working with Novo since about 2017-18 (save for a few years during the pandemic when they were direct-only). Their instruments are the kind that never disappoint - always musical, always with the best feeling/playing necks, killer tones, and always incredibly cool looking.

Though we've stocked most of their models over the years, this is our first bass from the Nashville-based company: the Ivorus. Released at the NAMM show in 2025, the Ivorus, like their guitars, carves out its own unique path and raison d'etre. While most basses trace back to a P or J bass, which are of course icons for good reason, the Ivorus presents as something you might unearth in the corner of a music shop - a '60s Japanese or Italian build with a super unique and original vibe. Typically, the problem with those types of instruments is that the build quality was questionable at best. Definitely not the case with the Ivorus.

This is a very well made instrument, especially in all the places that matter - fit, finish, fretwork, setup, weight (lack of - it weighs 7lb. 7oz.), balance, etc...Again, Novo has built a reputation for making excellent instruments - consistently - so we're not in the least bit surprised that the Ivorus follows suit.

Instead of giving a list of specs, we'd rather focus on what it's like to actually play. In a word? Fantastic. This is a 32" scale bass, which feels amazing to our hands. You don't quite get the same feel as either a short scale or a standard scale (obviously), but it's a great compromise - much like a 25" scale on a guitar.

The neck, per usual, is a highlight. Perfectly worn and shaped, it leans a bit more in the J bass direction (as it's not as substantial feeling as a P's carve). Coupled with a 1.5" nut width and 7 1/4" radius, the over all feel is all about comfort. We can definitely envision playing this one for a long time on a gig without fatigue.

Plugged in, the Novo spec'd / Lollar made Jazzmaster Bass pickups cover a lot of different tones, especially when combined with it's controls - volume, tone, and a very useful blend which enables you to dial in whatever shade of warmth or cut you need. Brilliant stuff!