Fender Precision Bass
Welcome to our roundup of the Fender Precision Bass, a legendary instrument that has been a staple in the music world for decades. In this article, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and variants of this iconic bass guitar, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on whether it’s the right choice for your playing style and budget.
The Top 19 Best Fender Precision Bass
- Rare 1958 Fender Precision Bass in Heavy Relic Aged Black — Experience the rich sound and classic charm of the Fender Custom Shop ’58 Precision Bass Heavy Relic Aged Black, a vintage-inspired treasure with a weight of 4.16KG, perfect for bass enthusiasts seeking a unique and high-quality instrument.
- Fender American Professional II Precision Bass — Modern Comfort and Sound — Experience the ultimate professional bass playing journey with the versatile Fender American Pro II Precision Bass, featuring innovative V-Mod II pickups, comfortable neck design, and a sleek satin finish.
- Vintage-Inspired Fender Precision Bass in Dakota Red — The Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass Dakota Red is a throwback to the past, delivering a vintage sound and look in a premium package that includes a gig bag, making it a must-have for bass players seeking a classic experience.
- Fender Custom Shop ’59 Precision Bass Special Relic, Limited Edition — The Fender Custom Shop Limited 1959 Precision Bass Special Relic with its hand-wound PJ pickups, vintage-style tuners, and relic’d finish offers classic charm and modern performance that sets the standard for bass experience!
- Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass in Olympic White with West Ham U.C. Crest — Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass Olympic White — A masterpiece for metal enthusiasts, featuring signature Seymour Duncan pickup and West Ham United F.C. crest, in iconic gloss White finish.
- Fender American Professional II Precision Bass: Classic Design, Modern Features — Experience the perfect fusion of classic design and modern innovation with the Fender American Professional II Precision Bass, crafted for today’s working bassists seeking unmatched comfort, tone, and performance.
- Fender American Performer Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst, Rosewood — Unleash Your Musical Potential — Experience true bass power and performance with the Fender American Performer Precision Bass, offering premium playability and unmatched, high-output sound for all your musical adventures.
- Limited-Edition ’59 Precision Bass with Quartersawn Maple Neck and Relic Lacquer Finish — Limited-Edition ‘Fender Precision Bass’ brings exceptional craftsmanship and authentic wear with unique features, offering a rare and valued vintage experience for dedicated enthusiasts.
- Innovative Fender Precision Bass with Premium Features — Fender Player Plus Precision Bass offers an immersive playing experience, combining classic Fender style with advanced features and stunning finishes to ignite creativity and shine on stage.
- Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass in Lake Placid Blue — The Fender Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass (Lake Placid Blue) combines a unique design and high-quality craftsmanship, offering a versatile sound for discerning bassists.
- Fender Custom Shop 1960 Precision Bass Heavy Relic — Authentic Vintage Tone — The Fender Custom Shop 1960 Precision Bass Heavy Relic — Aged Black delivers the iconic, thunderous sound of the original model while offering contemporary upgrades for modern bassists.
- Fender American Vintage II 1954 Precision Bass — Vintage Sound, Authentic Design — Capture the authentic vibe of the original 1954 Precision Bass with the Fender American Vintage II, boasting period-accurate construction, vintage sound, and a sleek, comfortable design.
- Fender Player Plus Left-Handed Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst — Sleek Sound and Style — Unleash your creativity with the Fender Player Plus Left-Handed Precision Bass, featuring Player Plus Noiseless Jazz Bass/Player Plus Precision pickups, a 3-band active EQ, and a sleek, modern “C” neck shape for ultimate performance and style.
- Fender American Ultra Precision Bass: Arctic Pearl Edition — Experience the ultimate fusion of sound and style with the Fender American Ultra Precision Bass Arctic Pearl, a game-changing instrument that elevates your playtime to new heights.
- Fender Vintera II ’60s Precision Bass — Vintage Tone and Feel — Unleash the authentic vintage voicing of the ’60s with Fender’s Vintera II Precision Bass, boasting an iconic design, unmatched tone, and exceptional playability.
- 75th Anniversary Fender Precision Bass: A Tribute to Iconic Sound and Style — Celebrate Fender’s 75th Anniversary with the exceptional sound and style of the 75th Anniversary Precision Bass, featuring vintage pickups, unique Diamond Anniversary finish, and a comfortable ‘Modern C’ neck profile.
- Fender Player Precision Bass Ocean Turquoise Limited Edition — Experience classic Fender sound and style with the Player Precision Bass Limited Edition Ocean Turquoise, guaranteed to deliver powerful, punchy low-end tones and a smooth playing feel for any stage or studio.
- Fender Pino Palladino Signature Precision Bass: A Custom Designed Instrument — Get your hands on the Fender Custom Shop Pino Palladino Signature Precision Bass in Fiesta Red, a masterpiece that replicates the iconic P-Bass with remarkable attention to detail and the sought-after tone of Pino Palladino.
- Fender Custom Shop 1955 Precision Bass P-Bass Heavy Relic Shell Pink: Vintage Upgrade with 20 Frets and Tweed Hard Case — Experience the authentic, vintage sound and feel of the Fender Custom Shop 1955 Precision Bass, featuring a relic’d shell finish, lightweight body, and vintage-style hardware, all perfectly encased in a Lacquered Tweed Hard Case.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Reviews
🔗Rare 1958 Fender Precision Bass in Heavy Relic Aged Black
Recently, I had the pleasure of trying out a Fender Custom Shop ’58 Precision Bass Heavy Relic Aged Black. The moment I laid my hands on it, the craftsmanship shone through. The aged black finish is impressive and gives it a weathered, vintage feel that was perfect for my music style.
One of the main highlights of this bass was its deep, resonant tone. It’s truly a joy to play, and it complements my band’s sound beautifully. Its pre-loved state meant that it had some character to it, which added to its overall charm. However, the weight of just under 4kg was a bit of a challenge to carry for extended periods.
In terms of included accessories, it came with a hardshell case, a strap, a Certificate of Authenticity, and pickup and bridge covers. The Floor Traveler document was also helpful in providing all the necessary specs for this beautiful instrument. Overall, it was a delightful experience to play this Fender Custom Shop ’58 Precision Bass Heavy Relic Aged Black.
🔗Fender American Professional II Precision Bass — Modern Comfort and Sound
Experience unparalleled comfort and sound with the Fender American Pro II Precision Bass. Its versatile V-Mod II split single-coil pickup brings crisp articulation and the iconic growl of a P bass. The smooth “Super-Natural” Satin Urethane neck finish ensures effortless play, while the comfortable “1963 C”-shaped maple neck and rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges make it a joy to hold and play.
The HiMass Vintage bridge and 3-ply mint green pickguard provide solidity and style. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this iconic bass will elevate your playing to new heights.
🔗Vintage-Inspired Fender Precision Bass in Dakota Red
Fender Precision Bass
I bought the Dakota Red Vintera Precision bass because I was looking for that vintage feel and sound without breaking the bank. When I first saw this bass, I was impressed by the beefy neck with the wider fretboard. It’s something you wouldn’t find on modern basses, but I found it really comfortable to play.
The first thing that caught my eye was the anodized gold pickguard. It stood out beautifully against the red of the body, and it gave the bass a vintage appeal. The gold aluminum pickguard really adds character to the bass.
The vintage-style ’50s split single-coil Precision bass pickup was what sealed the deal for me. It delivers that classic bass tone that I’ve always been searching for. Whether I’m slapping, picking, or plucking, each note rings out with a clear and defined voice. It’s like being able to make the bass sing.
The build quality of the bass is excellent. The maple neck is smooth and comfortable, and it has the iconic Precision Bass feel. The craftsmanship and finish are top-notch, with no noticeable imperfections. The electronics are flawless, with no buzz or crackle.
One feature that really stands out is the vintage reverse open-gear bass tuning machines. They provide stable tuning, even after extended periods without playing.
The bass comes with a gig bag and all case candy included, which is a nice bonus. It’s not cheap, but it’s a premium instrument, and the price tag reflects that.
Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. It’s a fantastic bass that delivers vintage sound and feel. Highly recommended!
🔗Fender Custom Shop ’59 Precision Bass Special Relic, Limited Edition
I recently got my hands on the Fender Custom Shop Limited 1959 Precision Bass Special. This baby is a blast from the past, with classic appointments that remind you of the good old days. The J and P Bass mergers, vintage-style tuning machines, gold anodized aluminum pickguard, and 1960 Jazz Bass “U” shape neck all came together to create a bass that’s worth showing off.
The old-school hand-wound PJ pickup configuration adds warm, classic tones to the mix, and the vintage vibe is just the cherry on top. Despite its vintage appearance, this Precision Bass is a modern powerhouse, capable of keeping up with any challenging performance.
The solid construction and top-quality materials make this bass an absolute beauty to behold and play. It’s like having a well-loved, gigged bass as your trusty sidekick on stage. The Limited Edition ’59 Precision Bass Special Relic is a true gem, perfect for all your musical endeavors.
🔗Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass in Olympic White with West Ham U.C. Crest
Imagine this: I’m sitting on my music-filled porch, the sun softly setting, and an irresistible need to strum on a new bass guitar. The chosen companion for this evening would be none other than Steve Harris’s very own precision bass in glossy white. I must admit, the moment I ran my hands over it’s rich, glossy finish, was when the feeling truly kicked in.
First thing that got me was its weight. A perfect blend of heaviness that spoke volumes about the quality of the instrument. And the neck, so sturdy, like an iron rod- and yet so comfortable to handle. This was a true testament to the craftsmanship.
The pinstriping and the mirror-finish pickguard were exquisite. They brought a certain elegance and uniqueness to the overall design. But what really drew in the crowd, was the West Ham United F. C. crest gracing the instrument. Talk about style!
Now the sound, oh the sound. A single pickup was enough to provide a strong, resonant vibration that had my music cravings fully satiated. It was powerful, with a rich sonic profile.
But it wasn’t all roses. There were areas where my expectations weren’t met. For example, I had a hard time with the high action and the neck bowing. Plus, I experienced a fair amount of buzz and feedback when I first got it.
However, I would be unjust if I didn’t mention the stellar customer service I received. They were extremely quick, professional, and made the entire process of buying an expensive, high-quality instrument almost effortless.
In conclusion, the Steve Harris Fender Precision Bass might have its minor hiccups, but its positives far outweigh the negatives. It’s unique design, powerful sound, and top-notch build quality make it a bass-player’s dream come true- and a tool so versatile that it can cover multiple musical genres with equal ease. So, if you’re in the market for a high-quality precision bass, this could very well be your winner.
🔗Fender American Professional II Precision Bass: Classic Design, Modern Features
As a lover of music and gadgets, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricacies of different musical instruments. When I heard about the Fender American Professional II Precision Bass, I knew I had to give it a try. This sleek, stylish bass guitar was touted as the perfect instrument for today’s working musicians, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
First and foremost, the 1963 C-profile neck on this bass felt just right. It had a smooth satin finish that was not only comfortable but also added a touch of elegance to the instrument. The rolled edges on the maple fingerboard were a nice touch, making it easy to navigate the frets even during long jam sessions. The four-ply tortoiseshell pickguard added a classic touch, while the 4-saddle HiMass Vintage bridge provided the perfect amount of support and sustain.
One of the standout features of this bass was the V-Mod II split-coil pickup. It delivered that classic punch and growl, but with an added level of articulation that made it truly stand out. The bone nut and string-through-body or top-load bridge further added to the overall sound and playability of the instrument.
While the Fender American Professional II Precision Bass had many highlights, it wasn’t without its drawbacks. The headstock could have been a bit more ergonomically designed, making it easier to grip and turn during tuning. Additionally, the case that came with the guitar was a bit on the heavy side, which could be a potential issue for some users.
Overall, my experience with this bass was nothing short of impressive. It offered the perfect combination of classic design and modern features, making it a great choice for any musician looking to take their bass game to the next level. The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass is a true testament to the craftsmanship and innovation that Leo Fender brought to the world of music, and it continues to inspire artists today.
🔗Fender American Performer Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst, Rosewood — Unleash Your Musical Potential
Climbing to new heights in performance, the Fender American Performer Precision Bass is the instrument to elevate your bass playing game. The moment you lay your hands on this bass, you can feel the precision and craftsmanship that’s woven into every aspect of it, from the contoured alder body to the slick maple neck and rosewood fingerboard. The Yosemite electronic system provides powerful, high-quality live sound, while the P/J pickup configuration allows you to play any genre with ease, infusing your basslines with an incredible amount of dynamism.
For those who crave the perfect fusion of power and performance, the Precision is the ultimate choice.
🔗Limited-Edition ’59 Precision Bass with Quartersawn Maple Neck and Relic Lacquer Finish
The Fender Precision Bass Journeyman Relic Hle Gold is a limited-edition gem crafted with the finest materials and craftsmanship. It’s been passed around, played at home, and even showcased at a few gigs over the years. With a Journeyman Relic Lacquer Finish that exudes a worn, yet loved look, this bass’s quartersawn Maple Neck with a flat-lam Rosewood Fingerboard adds a touch of elegance to its ’60s style Oval “C” Back-Shape.
The finish checking, friendly nicks and dings, dullish hardware, and moderate playing wear all contribute to its unique charm. While it’s not perfect, this bass is a rare find that adds flair and character to any musician’s collection.
🔗Innovative Fender Precision Bass with Premium Features
The Fender Player Plus Precision Bass is a force to be reckoned with, combining the iconic Fender bass tone with modern features for ultimate flexibility. Its Player Plus PJ pickup set delivers a punchy and growling sound that’s perfect for any genre. The three-band active EQ with active/passive toggle provides precise tone shaping, ensuring you get the exact sound you’re looking for.
The neck on this bass is a dream to play, thanks to its comfortable modern “C” backshape, silky satin finish, and rolled fingerboard edges. The 12" radius fingerboard makes for a fast and smooth playing experience. One of the standout features is the rock-solid HiMass bridge, which provides sustain, resonance, and perfect intonation.
While the Fender Player Plus Precision Bass has its fair share of perks, it’s not without its drawbacks. The lack of a passive tone control might limit its versatility for some players. Additionally, this bass is on the heavier side compared to some of its counterparts, which could be a downside for those who prefer a lighter instrument.
Overall, the Fender Player Plus Precision Bass is a fantastic tool for any musician looking to make their mark with a classic bass sound, wrapped up in a modern package. Its unique features and stunning finishes make it a standout choice in the world of bass guitars.
🔗Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass in Lake Placid Blue
I recently had the chance to try out the Fender Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass in Lake Placid Blue, and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. The first thing that struck me about this bass was its beautiful maple neck with a “C” profile, which felt comfortable and easy to play. The three-way pickup selector switch allowed for a variety of tonal choices, which was impressive.
One of the standout features of this bass was the unmarked and unfinished ebony fingerboard with side dot markers only. This gave the bass a sleek and modern look, and the smooth ebony surface made playing a breeze. The Tony Franklin designed pickups were a highlight for me, as they provided a unique and powerful sound that I haven’t experienced with other basses.
The American Vintage bass bridge with four single-groove steel “barrel” saddles and vintage-style tuners with Hipshot Bass Xtender Drop-D tuner on the E string were all solid and reliable features. However, one downside for me was the weight of the bass, as it was quite heavy compared to others I’ve played.
Overall, the Fender Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass was a great experience to play with. Its unique features and powerful sound made it a standout in my collection, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality fretless bass.
🔗Fender Custom Shop 1960 Precision Bass Heavy Relic — Authentic Vintage Tone
There was nothing quite like stepping into the music room and strumming my fingers on the Fender Precision Bass Heavy Relic Aged Black. Its unique Heavy Relic lacquer finish gave it an aged look that was as charming as its vintage-style steel-saddle bridge and tuning machines. I loved the smooth-playing, tinted quartersawn maple neck and its 60s Oval C-shaped profile. The 9.5-radius fingerboard with 20 medium-jumbo frets was a delight for my fingers.
The Hand-Wound 62 P Bass pickup added the seismic Fender tone that I had always admired. The vintage-style P Bass wiring allowed me to shape the sound to fit my preference. The 4-ply Tortoiseshell pickguard, vintage-style P Bass bridge with threaded steel saddles, vintage-style tuning machines, bone nut, and round string tree made this bass an authentic relic of a bygone era.
This relic not only served as a tool in my daily life but also became a source of joy and memories. However, as with any instrument, it was not perfect for me. It was a bit heavier than my usual basses, which made it a little harder to move around. But overall, the Fender Precision Bass Heavy Relic Aged Black brought out the bassist in me, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.
🔗Fender American Vintage II 1954 Precision Bass — Vintage Sound, Authentic Design
The Fender American Vintage II 1954 Precision Bass has been a trusty companion in my musical journey. Its gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish adds a touch of elegance to its precision bass body shape. The knurled dome control knobs let me tweak the sound to perfection, while the maple fingerboard offers a smooth glide, much like the effortless performance of my favorite athletes.
The nickel/chrome hardware finish not only enhances the instrument’s aesthetic appeal but also adds a layer of sturdiness. The single pickup in the middle position is a nod to the vintage sound of the original, packing a punch that reverberates through the room.
However, despite its lightweight nature, the ash body can be a bit noisy, though not a deal-breaker for me. Overall, the Fender American Vintage II 1954 Precision Bass is a masterpiece that’s been faithful to its roots, offering an authentic experience that’s hard to match.
🔗Fender Player Plus Left-Handed Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst — Sleek Sound and Style
The Fender Player Plus Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst is a versatile and high-performance instrument that stands out from the crowd. Built with a Player Plus PJ pickup set, the bass delivers a powerful and resonant tone that defines the Fender sound. The active 3-band EQ provides precise control over the instrument’s sound, with switchable active/passive operation for ultimate flexibility.
The Precision Bass neck is designed to be sleek, fast, and comfortable, thanks to its satin finish, rolled edges on the 12-inch radius fingerboard, and modern “C” backshape. The four saddle HiMass bridge ensures sustain, resonance, and perfect intonation, making this an excellent choice for both live performances and recording sessions.
As a left-handed player, the Fender Player Plus Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst has been a game-changer in my music-making process. The combination of classic Fender style, advanced features, and stunning new finishes makes it a perfect tool for sparking creativity and standing out in any setting.
One of my favorite aspects of this bass is the smooth satin finish and the rolled fingerboard edges, which make playing incredibly comfortable and enjoyable. However, I do wish for a passive tone control as an option, as the current setup is slightly less versatile in that area.
Overall, the Fender Player Plus Precision Bass 3-Color Sunburst left-handed model has been an absolute joy to play, and its powerful tone, advanced features, and well-designed neck have made it an essential part of my musical kit. Despite the slightly heavier weight, this bass is definitely worth the investment for any left-handed bassist looking to elevate their sound.
🔗Fender American Ultra Precision Bass: Arctic Pearl Edition
As a music enthusiast, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Fender American Ultra Precision Bass, and it was a delightful experience. This instrument offered a fantastic combination of vintage style and modern features that catered perfectly to my needs as a bassist.
The first thing that caught my eye was the Alder Precision Bass body. It exuded an elegant, classic look, which was complemented by the 34" Scale Modern D Maple Neck with a 10"-14" Compound Radius Fingerboard. The Alder body provided a warm, resonant tone that I found refreshing.
One of the standout features for me was the inclusion of both Noiseless Vintage Single-Coil Jazz Bass Bridge Pickup and Noiseless Vintage Split-Coil P Bass Middle Pickup. These innovative additions allowed for a remarkable range of tones, making it incredibly versatile. The pickups truly were noiseless, providing an extremely clean sound that really sang.
However, there was one slight drawback that I encountered. Upon receiving the bass, I noticed a slight buzzing sound emanating from two of the springs on the bridge. This was a tad disappointing, considering the price tag. Thankfully, it was an easy fix — adjusting the neck relief, adjusting intonation, and replacing the problematic springs did the trick.
Despite this minor issue, the Fender American Ultra Precision Bass quickly became my go-to instrument. The neck was incredibly comfortable, allowing me to play for long periods without any strain. Moreover, the provided case and strap locking system were thoughtful additions that added to the overall experience.
In conclusion, while I did experience a small hiccup with the springs, the Fender American Ultra Precision Bass easily outweighed this minor inconvenience. Its exceptional sound quality, comfortable playability, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for any bass player. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this instrument will undoubtedly serve you well in your musical journey.
🔗Fender Vintera II ’60s Precision Bass — Vintage Tone and Feel
The Fender Vintera II ’60s Precision Bass has been my go-to bass these past few months, and I have to say, it’s a timeless gem. The moment I strummed the first chord, I was transported back to the iconic sound of the ‘60s.
For anyone seeking that signature warmth, punch, and clarity, look no further than this beauty. The alder body and maple neck ensure that the sound remains crisp and lively.
The vintage-style early ’60s split-coil pickup gives the bass a warm, woody tone that complements any song perfectly. What’s even better is the early ’60s “C”-shape neck, which provides a comfortable, familiar feel. Overall, this Fender Vintera II provides all the charm of a classic bass, wrapped in a beautiful 3-color sunburst finish.
It’s the perfect addition to my music experience, and I imagine many others will feel the same.
🔗75th Anniversary Fender Precision Bass: A Tribute to Iconic Sound and Style
It’s a bass that’s been around for 75 years, yet it still feels modern and fresh. The Fender 75th Anniversary Precision Bass boasts an alluring Alder body, with a limited Diamond Anniversary finish that sparkles under the stage lights. The vintage-style ’50s Precision pickups provide that unparalleled bottom-end punch, while the four-saddle bridge ensures perfect tuning consistency. The satin-finished, maple neck is meticulously crafted to fit your hand comfortably and let you glide up and down the fingerboard in ease.
Every detail of this bass screams quality, from its striking paint job to its sleek, ergonomic headstock. But don’t be fooled by its looks. This Anniversary P Bass is ready to rock and roll, with a deluxe Fender gig bag thrown in for good measure. It might be an icon from the past, but it’s still very much a bass for today. It’s not just a guitar, it’s a piece of musical history in your hands.
🔗Fender Player Precision Bass Ocean Turquoise Limited Edition
The Fender Player Precision Bass Limited Edition Ocean Turquoise is a stunning and versatile bass guitar that delivers a powerful, authentic sound that echoes the legendary Fender name. With its sleek Maple neck and 9.5'’-radius fingerboard, it caters to all playing styles and skill levels.
The 4-saddle bridge provides accurate intonation and easy action adjustment, while the modern ‘C’-shaped neck feels smooth and comfortable under the hand. The bass features a synthetic bone nut, vintage-style disc string trees, open-gear tuning machines, and a four-bolt ‘F’-stamped neck plate.
The Ocean Turquoise finish and 4-ply Tortoiseshell pickguard add a touch of sophistication and uniqueness to this instrument, making it a true standout in any music setting.
🔗Fender Pino Palladino Signature Precision Bass: A Custom Designed Instrument
I was excited to get my hands on the Fender Custom Shop Pino Palladino Signature Precision Bass, known for its iconic status in the world of music. The first thing that struck me about this bass was its stunning Fiesta Red finish, a true masterpiece. The Alder body, Maple neck, and Rosewood fingerboard combined with vintage-style frets made for a sleek and comfortable playing experience.
The bass was strung with Thomastik-Infeld flatwound strings, giving it that signature mellow jazzy tone right out of the box. The custom-wound P-Bass pickup delivered a warm, full, and percussive sound with just the right balance of bass frequencies. This bass was versatile, welcoming both roundwound and flatwound strings with equally great results.
One aspect that stood out in my experience was the quality of craftsmanship. Fender did an exceptional job replicating one of Mr. Palladino’s preferred basses, particularly the tricky overpaint finish. The bass was in great shape, with no noticeable dings or scratches.
Despite its high price tag, the Fender Custom Shop Pino Palladino Signature Precision Bass Fiesta Red is a worthy investment for any musician seeking a truly remarkable instrument. Its sound and versatility make it a standout choice for any stage or studio.
🔗Fender Custom Shop 1955 Precision Bass P-Bass Heavy Relic Shell Pink: Vintage Upgrade with 20 Frets and Tweed Hard Case
As a music enthusiast, I can’t help but be drawn to Fender’s Custom Shop 1955 Precision Bass. With its vintage-inspired design and top-notch craftsmanship, it’s easy to see why this guitar is a fan favorite.
The lightweight Ash body coupled with the 7.25" radius neck makes for a comfortable and well-balanced playing experience. However, one area that could use improvement would be the nut width, which at 1.700" may not suit everyone’s preference. Overall, the Fender Precision Bass is a reliable and eye-catching instrument that every guitar aficionado should consider adding to their collection.
Buyer’s Guide
Welcome to the buyer’s guide for the Fender Precision Bass. This guide will help you understand the important features, considerations, and general advice for this iconic product category. We’ll cover topics such as body type, neck design, pickups, and more to help you make an informed decision before purchasing your new Fender Precision Bass.
Body Types
The Fender Precision Bass comes in various body types, including the standard solid body, double cutaway, and with special finish options. The solid body is known for its sturdy construction and is perfect for playing in various musical styles. The double cutaway provides a unique look and improves access to the higher frets. When choosing a Precision Bass, consider your personal style, preferences, and the environments you’ll be playing in.
Neck Design
The neck design plays a significant role in playing comfort and overall tone. Fender Precision Basses feature a standard maple neck with a 20-fret rosewood fingerboard. Some models may have different fingerboard options or neck woods. Additionally, consider neck thickness and the compound radius, which are essential factors for playing comfort, especially if you’re transitioning from a different bass or if you use fingerstyle playing techniques.
Pickups
Pickups are responsible for the Precision Bass’s distinctive tone. The model typically comes equipped with two single-coil pickups. Some models may feature split or humbucker pickups, offering a different tonal characteristic. If you plan to play various musical styles, consider finding a Precision Bass with versatile pickups, enabling you to switch between different tones easily.
Accessories & Upgrades
Fender Precision Basses provide a wealth of opportunities for customizing and upgrading. Some popular options include changing the bridge, tuning keys, or installing active electrics. Additionally, you can adjust the string scale or nut width to improve playability. Remember, small alterations can make a significant difference in your Precision Bass’s performance.
FAQ
What is the Fender Precision Bass?
The Fender Precision Bass is an iconic electric bass guitar that was first introduced in 1951. It was designed to meet the needs of bass players who wanted a powerful, versatile instrument with a deep, resonant sound. Over the years, the Precision Bass has become one of the most popular and widely used electric bass guitars, known for its distinctive sound and reliable performance.
The Precision Bass features a solid body, a single split-coil pickup, and a familiar “C”-shaped neck that makes it comfortable for players of all skill levels. Its simple yet effective design has made it a go-to choice for many musicians in various genres, from rock to jazz and blues, and its popularity continues to grow today.
What are the key features of the Fender Precision Bass?
The Fender Precision Bass has several signature features that contribute to its unique sound and playability. These include its solid body, single split-coil pickup, and “C”-shaped neck. Its solid body provides a deep, resonant tone, while the split-coil pickup delivers a powerful, punchy sound with excellent clarity and low-end punch. The “C”-shaped neck is known for its comfortable playing feel and ease of access to the higher frets.
Other notable features of the Precision Bass include its adjustable bridge and tailpiece, which allow for precise tuning and intonation adjustments. The guitar also features a 20-fret rosewood fingerboard, which provides a smooth playing surface and enhances the overall playability of the instrument.
What makes the Fender Precision Bass so popular?
The Fender Precision Bass has gained popularity for several reasons. First and foremost, it produces a unique and powerful sound that is highly sought after in various genres of music. Its solid body, split-coil pickup, and “C”-shaped neck all contribute to its distinctive sound and comfortable playing feel.
Another reason for the Precision Bass’ popularity is its versatility. The guitar’s design allows it to be used in a wide range of musical styles, from rock to jazz and blues, and its ability to deliver powerful, punchy bass lines has made it a go-to choice for many musicians over the years. Additionally, the Precision Bass’ affordable price point and reliable performance make it an attractive option for both beginners and experienced players alike.
What types of Precision Bass models are available?
Fender offers several different Precision Bass models to choose from, each with its own unique features and specifications. Some of the most popular models include the standard Precision Bass, the Tuxedo Precision Bass, and the Precision Bass Special Edition. Other models include the Vintera ’70s Precision Bass and the Vintera ’60s Precision Bass, which are designed to replicate the look and sound of Fender basses from specific decades.
Each model offers a slightly different playing experience, with variations in tonewood, pickups, and finish options. This allows players to choose the Precision Bass that best suits their individual playing style and preferences, whether they are looking for a classic, vintage sound or a more modern, versatile instrument.
What is the difference between a Precision Bass and a Jazz Bass?
The Fender Precision Bass and Jazz Bass are both iconic electric bass guitars designed by the same company, but they have distinct differences in their design and sound. The Precision Bass is characterized by its solid body, single split-coil pickup, and “C”-shaped neck, which give it a powerful, punchy sound with excellent clarity and low-end punch.
The Jazz Bass, on the other hand, features a semi-hollow body, two single-coil pickups, and a unique “J”-shaped neck, which give it a brighter, more articulate sound with a wider tonal range. The Jazz Bass is also known for its versatility, as it is well-suited for both fingerstyle and slap/pop playing techniques.
Are there any notable Precision Bass players?
Yes, there are many notable bass players who have used the Fender Precision Bass throughout their careers. Some of these include Jaco Pastorius, Geddy Lee, Paul McCartney, and John Entwistle. These musicians, among others, have helped to establish the Precision Bass as a go-to choice for bassists of all skill levels and in various genres of music.
The Precision Bass’ popularity can be attributed to its unique sound, versatility, and reliability, as well as the wide range of famous musicians who have used it to create iconic basslines and contribute to the instrument’s enduring legacy in the world of music. Its enduring appeal continues to resonate with bass players today, making it one of the most popular and beloved electric bass guitars of all time.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.