Ashdown - The Saint Artisan Cardinal Flame

Beneath its scarlet-flame finish, the Ashdown The Saint Artisan Cardinal Flame embodies a philosophy of sound that too many modern basses have forgotten. It is an invitation to rediscover the magic of passive electronics, where every nuance of your playing comes through without digital filtering.

The combination of its hand-wired Alnico V P-Bass and J-Bass pickups, paired with its passive electronics, creates an acoustic foundation rich in harmonics. Add to that the dedicated J-pickup blend, and you get control over the tonal texture that ranges from the round, deep groove of the P to the incisive bite of the J, all without ever losing that natural warmth.

Here, the 40 mm-thick poplar body offers perfect tonal balance – neither too bright nor too muffled. The flamed maple top isn’t just an aesthetic flourish; its natural rigidity adds a precise attack and projection that cuts through the mix.

The hardware is equally well-crafted, featuring 18:1 ratio tuners for stable and smooth tuning, and a double-action truss rod that allows for fine-tuning of the neck, whatever your preferred strings.

This bass has a role to play in every setting, from the intimate studio to the smoky stage. The 34" scale length ensures classic string tension, perfect for precise playing. The roasted maple neck, combined with a maple fingerboard, offers excellent stability against humidity, as well as ultra-fast glide.

The 13.78" radius and C-shaped neck profile mould to the hand without causing fatigue, even during long sessions. The 20 stainless steel frets ensure playing clarity that never dulls, whilst the CTS controls and vintage bridge with copper saddles guarantee optimal signal transfer.

It all comes in a gig bag that you can take with you wherever you go. With its glossy Cardinal Flame finish, the Ashdown The Saint isn’t just a bass you own – it’s a bass you wear.