Very good condition. Includes original gig bag. Freshly setup, restrung and electronics cleaned. This takes a very specific truss rod. (We had to have a client bring one in for us to use. Cannot use standard since this requires a square.) Almost zero fretwear. Does have a maryiad of light scratches, dings, scuffs, etc. Nothing serious. See all pics.
The1996 Pedulla Rapture 5-String Bassis a handcrafted, U.S.-made instrument built by Michael V. Pedulla in Massachusetts.Known for its exceptional build quality and playability, it falls into the "modern vintage" category, combining classic design elements with modern performance features. These basses are highly regarded among players for their balanced tone, comfortable necks, and reliable electronics.
The 1996 model features asolid maple bodywith a metallic purple finish and a 3-ply pearloid pickguard.It has aslim one-piece maple neckwith a 34” scale length and a1 15/16” nut width, making it comfortable for both fast playing and extended sessions.Therosewood fingerboardincludes pearl dot inlays and gray side dots, with 22 frets offering solid upper-register access.
The bass uses atop-loading bridge with steel barrel saddles, contributing to sustain and tuning stability.The hardware includeschrome sealed Gotoh tuners, which remain in excellent working condition on well-maintained examples.
Electronics and Sound
Equipped with asingle Bartolini soapbar pickup, the Rapture delivers a versatile and articulate tone.The active electronics includevolume, bass, and treble controls, along with amid-range boost toggle, allowing players to shape their sound for a wide range of musical styles.The Bartolini components were custom-made for Pedulla and are still supported by the company today.
The combination of asoft Eastern maple bodyandhard maple neckproduces a balanced voice with a smooth midrange and a bright, cutting high end—ideal for cutting through dense mixes.
Reputation and Player Feedback
Pedulla basses, including the Rapture series, are praised for theirexceptional low B string response, clarity across the fretboard, and ergonomic design.Players note that even at higher frets, the low B remains defined and musical—rare for 34” scale 5-string basses.
User reviews on Audiofanzine rate the Rapture 5 highly (5.0/5.0), emphasizing itscomfort, tonal versatility, andbuild quality.Some describe it as a “war machine” for rock and fusion, capable of handling high-gain tones and slap techniques with ease.
Since 1979, we at Mom's Music have worked hard to make the Louisville, KY music scene something special. Now, we’re working hard to share what makes us great with the world. We take pride in our care and attention to detail regarding every instrument and musician that comes through the store, and every instrument we receive gets a thorough inspection and setup when it arrives in our shop and prior to shipment. All orders placed will require a signature upon arrival. If a different arrangement is preferred, send us a message or give us a call.
