Standard Jazz Bass Review

Standard Jazz Bass incorporates many Fender's features such as the offset waist body and ultra slim fast-action neck. Updated with two bi-pole pickups and American Jazz Bass knobs.

Features:	8.7
Sound:	9.1
Action:	8.7
Reliability:	8.8
Impression:	9
Overall rating:	8.9
Users rating:	7.8
Comments:	66

overall: 8.6

Featured review by: CptKemzik, on october 13, 2005

Purchased from: Ron

Features: Made in 2003/04 (I have to check the serial number) in Mexico. 20 medium-jumbo frets and a slim fast action neck. A solid white pickguard and alder wood body with a maple neck and rosewood fretboard. In an "artic" white finish with an offset waist body and standard vintage style bridge and two bi-polar standard jazz pickups (located in the middle and the bridge) which are passive. Control panel is made of chrome and has two volume knobs and a tone knob. To top it of standard Fender overssize bass tuners. // 8

Sound: The standard jazz has a nice mellow tone with a good balance of low, middle and high end sounds. The middle pickup provides a clean warm sound for R&B/jazz music and the bridge gives a nice growl for rock. The jazz obviously isnt tailormade for rock, but it certainly can hold its own with the hard stuff. However it is not suitable for heavy metal and the P-Bass gives a deeper and punchier sound than the J-bass. So if you play in a rock or hard-rock group try out the P-Bass first as it will help you cut through the band when necessary. In my own band we play various genres and the jazz has a jack-of-all trades style; it isnt outstanding in any one category but can perform well in almost all of them. For gigs I've ran it through countless amps, but for practice at home I've got a Fender Rumble 15 watt which is excellent. However if you intend on becoming a serious guitar player id recomend swapping out the stock pups as the get VERY noisy and staticy with the treble or the bass cranked up. This can get frustrating when playing fingerstlye and hampers the tone when slapping. However the disortion can be a plus if you like to play on pick (like me), and personally I think the extra noise benefiets for the hard rawk kinda sound. I havent swapped the bridge out (yet) however I've heard that stock bridges are less than desirable and if you intend on changing it get a Badass II bridge. Note that swapping the pups and bridge will cost you some extra cash, and Id recomend to just play the bass straight up before deciding if you really are into playing bass guitar. // 8

Action, Fit & Finish: Apparently I was lucky in this category. I've read many tales of MIM basses having horrible factory setup with the action, pups, and bridge as well as materials. However I think that most of these complaints came from people who bought an instrument from one of the gazillion shoping websites; every store that I've visited had MIM fenders in top shape and ready to go. Because of this I strongly emcourage you to look at a local store when buying an instrument, online buying is a no no in my book and will end up hurting you more than helping you. Plus going to the store has the added advantage of trying out the basses so you can get a feel of what you like. Anways my bass was properly set up (however I've yet to adjust it to my specifications)and have no complaints about the action (it is low but not too low) or the pup adjustment (only the bridge is slightly staggerd so that it can pickup the sound clearly from all the strings). There are some of the typical micro scratches and such but nothing in bad condition and the finish is amazing ( mean really amazing). I dont know what people are complaining about, but MIM Fenders to me are great instruments for beginning players (with previous musical experience) and for intermediate players that are starting up a band; like me. // 10

Reliability & Durability: This guitar is built like a tank; I've banged the headstock and body several times during rehersals and during one gig on a cramped lounge stage, and not once did it go out of tune or show any signs of damage. I swear the only thing thats gonna break this bass is an act of divine intervention. However, never, ever gig without a backup bass. Have a squire or Johnson on hand if your main bass gets messed up during a gig. I dont care if youve got a bass made out of titanium, something will happend someday. A fellow musician/friend I know learned this the hard way when during once concert his bass got hit with a water bottle (I'm talkin head on) and he had to play with the bottom two strings for the rest of the gig. // 9

Impression: My band does stuff from Alternative and classic rock, to funk and even a little bit of jazz and blues. My standard J bass fits well with all of these. However I previously played rythmm guitar in my band for two years and made the switch to bass when our band auditioned for a better one (to give you a prespective weve got a singer/keyboardist, a lead guitarist/backup singer, the new rythm guitarist, me on bass/backup singing, and a drummer). Fortunately I've made the transition to the "bottom-end" very well and after a year of playing I know plenty of grooves like the back of my hand. The standard jazz is the one and only bass I've owned thus far, however I've tried out a standard pbass which did have a nice harder tone but I didnt like the neck or lack of variety. I also own a standard strat, which is what I played guitar on (again a solid guitar). If it were stolen, id save up my cash and just get an american bass; these MIM ones are good but not good enough to warrant another purchase. Anyways if you are making a transition from guitar to bass, or your looking for a good medium-end intstrument the MIM basses fit the bill perfectly. // 8

overall: 9.8

Reviewed by: synyster.punk, on june 26, 2006

Features: This bass was made in I'm guessing 2002, the year I bought it, it was made in Mexico. It is also left handed. It has 21 jumbo frets with a rosewood fingerboard. Alder body with a solid black finish. It has the orginal passive pickups it came with with one tone knob, and two pickup volume knobs. // 10

Sound: This bass suits my music style very well, I play punk rock, oldies and classic/hard rock. I use a Ampeg SVT-Pro head with a 8x10 cabinet, my practice amp is a Peavey TKO 115. both these amplifiers are great. There is no noise at all, none whatsoever. It has a rich full sound and is very bright. This bass can make any sound, you can make it sound like anything you want, its crazy. // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar was set up perfectly at the factory, but the pickup poles are a bit off, the american pickups are manufactured so they fit perfectly, as the neck pickup is shorter. There were no flaws in it at all, I am not surprised, Fender are the best basses out there. // 9

Reliability & Durability: This is my only bass I play at our live shows, it can withstand anything, you just have to take care of it. The hardware will last a lifetime if properly taken care of once again. take note guys. I would use this bass without a backup, as this is my only bass, my Yamaha had the jack ripped out of it. The finish will not wear off, there are a few minor scratches and dings, but no wood showing through. // 10

Impression: This bass suits my playing style, I like to be all over the place on my bass in the proper scale, I like to mess around with chromatics(runs) and octaves quite a bit. I have been playing for 5 years, I also own a Squier Strat Pack. I don't like it one bit, just the guitar. I hate this question but I will answer it anyways, yes I will buy another Jazz bass if this was stolen, but it will never get stolen, I will mnake damn sure of it. I love this bass to the death, mostly how the neck fits my hand perfectly and the body style contours to me very well. Guys, do not buy a bass just 'cause it looks cool, play it and if you feel very comfortable with it then you found a bass you will get very good on. I have not compared this to anything else, no need. The only thing I wish it had was a maple fingerboard with black block inlays. Might as well buy a Geddy Lee signature bass, but I'm pretty sure they don't come left handed. This bass is very good, I recommend it to everybody. // 10

overall: 8.4

Reviewed by: monkey_dancer, on june 04, 2009

Price paid: £ 320

Purchased from: Dolphin Music, Gateshead

Features: This bass was made in 2007 in Mexico. It has 20 medium frets, a rosewood fingerboard and the usual thin Jazz neck. It has a maple neck and an alder body. Mine is 'Artic White', which is a beautiful creamy colour, and it has a white pickguard. It has a standard Vintage style top-load bridge with 4 individually adjustable saddles, and all chrome hardware. 2 standard passive single coil pickups, each with its own volume control, and a shared tone control. I got mine with a free Fender soft-case and an allen key for the bridge saddles. // 7

Sound: I play most things except metal, but I mainly use this for pop/rock'n'roll and jazz. I mainly use this with an old 300W Peavey solid state combo, although I sometimes use other amps for gigs when it's more practical. I have a Boss ODB-3 and a fuzz, but for the band I'm in at the moment (old Jazz and Rn'B standards) I don't use any pedals. That said, the bridge pickup does sound wonderful through a fuzz, you can get a lot of growl, while still having clear definition. I rarely get noise issues when playing, and then it's only when standing quite close to an amp turned up very loud, which is something I like to avoid anyway!

This is a brilliantly clear instrument: it always sounds rich and round, but there's plenty of high end and clarity, harmonic overtones Shine through in a great way, and the bass has the nicest sustain on any instrument I've ever played. It is fantastically versatile tonewise; the two pickups have very different characters, and different blends can produce vastly different sounds. More importantly, all of the options sound good for something, rather than having a hundred options of which five are usable. It's always possible to get a good sound for any situation. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: I went in to the shop to try this bass and bought it there and then, so the action was great from the start: I have never played a more comfortable guitar or bass, the thin neck feels brilliant, and the finish on the back of the neck is very fast. Everything on the bass is in good condition. I've only had one problem, which is that occasionally when I play very hard some of the bridge saddles slip down, so I have to raise them again, because it lowers the action and there is a lot of fret buzz.

Apart from this (minor and fixable) problem, everything has been perfect. // 8

Reliability & Durability: I use this Live pretty much every week, and I've not had a single problem yet. All the hardware feels very solid, and I think it would take some abuse to break anything (abuse it won't get!). The bass holds in tune really well, I generally only have to adjust it by tiny amounts at the start of gigs. The strap buttons are very solid, despite the weight of the bass; it's the strap itself I'm more worried about.

I don't often gig without a backup because another guy in the band normally brings a bass along, but nothing bad has ever happened to it on or offstage, and I wouldn't think twice about doing so. The finish doesn't seem likely to wear off. So far there is only one crack, and that's from when somebody else hit the bass against a stone wall. Needless to say, he hasn't touched it since!

Basically, it would take an awful lot to break this bass, it seems built to last. // 9

Impression: I play everything that isn't very heavy, especially jazz and rock'n'roll, and this is, in my opinion, the perfect bass for those and many other genres. I have been playing bass for about 4 years, and I also have a Stagg starter bass, a practice amp, the aforementioned pedals and lots of guitar stuff. The bass is exactly as advertised, and I have no problems with any part of it at all. I chose carefully, and I love it as much as I did when I got it about 8 months ago.

If it were stolen or lost, I would look at other basses, because you never know what you'll find, but I would probably focus on similar basses, and I wouldn't be surprised if I finished in buying another of these. Or maybe a fretless, but even then I'd probably get the fretless version of this. My favourite thing has to be the neck, which feels great to play, but I also love the tone, and how beautiful it is. Definitely one of the nicest looking instruments I've seen. It's hard to beat such simplicity in design and function, and the only problem is the slipping bridge saddles. In time I'll either get new saddles or a new bridge, but it's a very small problem, and I'll only replace the bridge with one in exactly the same style.

Before buying this, I shopped around for about a month, trying out all manner of basses, including spectors, p-basses, warwicks; absolutely every bass I could find in my price range. I had tried other Jazz basses, but this one in particular jumped out at me; it outplayed every other bass by a large margin, and looked and sounded great. So I would advise potential buyers to try more than one of the bass you intend to buy, as this particular bass was much, much nicer to play than the 2 other Jazz basses I tried, even though they were all the same model. I suppose that suggests weak quality control, but even the other Jazz basses I tried were fine, just not as good as this one. Part of that will be the set-up in the shop, and part manufacture, I suppose. That has really discouraged me from ever buying a guitar online, as it's nice to be able to play the exact guitar you end up buying, just to know that it's good.

The only things I want about the bass are the bridge/saddles (only to correct the problem on this particular bass) and the pickguard colour: I'd like a tortoiseshell one. I'll probably get a black one and a tortoiseshell, and then swap between the 3 colours when I feel like it, just for the variety.

I wouldn't change anything more fundamental about the bass, it's versatile, great to play, sounds good and looks fantastic. // 9

Reviewed by: unregistered, on may 12, 2006

Purchased from: Guitar Center

Features: Fender Jazz Bass. Slim neck, 2 single coil pickups, Fender standard "Vintage" tuners. 2 volume controls, one tone. 21 frets (don't quote me on that, I never really counted). Bridge is a piece of stamped sheet metal. Yea, not very reliable there. I ended up changing the bridge. // 7

Sound: Bridge pickup is punchy and tight. Neck pickup is warmer, but a little sloppy. If you turn the tone knob all the way down, you can get rid of a little bit of punch. Works especially well if playing with an acoustic group or you just want to stand in the back and make stuff vibrate. I would play the neck pickup at full volume and bridge at half volume for jazz or blues styles. Bridge up and neck down for something like punk rock. Generally, I use my effects (Zoom 506 II) and amp (I've played it through just about anything you can think of. Fender, Crate, Carvin, Ampeg, SWR, GK, Ashdown) to shape the tone, so I just turn all the knobs up. I play with chorus a lot. That's basically the only effect I'd ever use for bass. Maybe distortion for metal. // 8

Action, Fit & Finish: The finish is semi-disappointing. It has some bubbling, and it's a little uneven. Tuners could use some work, but unless you're slamming the thing full force, it stay in tune pretty well. I had it set up shortly after buying it. The bridge drove me crazy for the first 2 years of owning this thing. The little screws that go into the saddles to adjust the action are not properly fitted to the holes they're going into. After one song, the vibrations would leave my low E string hugging the bridge, very close to the pickups, giving me a very boomy low end sound. After I replaced the bridge, I've never had a problem. I added a thumb rest for more ease of play, but I generally never use it. I still opt for the thumb against the bridge pickup. Personal preference, I guess. I still have the original bridge lying around somewhere. It's a little rusted. Also, the poles of the pickups have become corroded. I was a little disappointed by that. // 6

Reliability & Durability: I've had this guitar for about 3.5 years now. It's never given me any problems except for the faulty bridge. Only ever once used a backup, and it was for an alternate tuning. I've played it at practice/studio sessions/live gigs quite a bit. Never failed me yet. // 7

Impression: If you change the bridge, the thing is amazing. It's sound is so versatile. I like the passive pickups. I find actives are too overdiven for my liking. I play anything from jazz, to rock, to death metal. It's just a nice bass. Everyone Who has ever played my bass says "this this sounds and play so well!" // 8

overall: 8.4

Reviewed by: ryenzio1, on march 28, 2008

Features: Made in Mexico. The serial number indicates it was made in 2007, so even though I got it used it was essentially Brand New. Has 20 frets, like most Fender basses. Body is made of alder, and the neck is maple with rosewood glued on. The finish on mine is "Midnight Wine" which is a deep red with a little bit of metallic quality to it. Most internet pictures do the color no justice at all, the finish really is gorgeous in person. Bridge is still standard Fender. Has 2 passive standard jazz pickups, with individual volume and master tone controls. Tuners seem to be standard Fender stuff. Everything was still completely stock when I got this bass. Can't say that it has too many features, but it doesn't have anything I don't need, which is convenient. // 8

Sound: Suits my style perfectly, I play anywhere from classic rock to jazz and blues. It works well with any genre you can throw at it. I'm using it with a Line 6 Lowdown modeling combo, which I use to get some good '60s tones. I generally turn the tone up all the way and leave both pickups on full. This gives a good balanced tone and cancels the hum as an added bonus. Occasionally I will solo one of the pickups and when I do this, I turn the tone knob all the way down to help with the hum. If it really bothers you that much you could get a noise gate, but I don't think most people care too much. You can get a variety of sounds, anywhere from deep Jamerson fingerstyles to blistering slap and pop with just about everything in between. No bass can adapt to any situation as well as the Fender Jazz. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: I can't vouch for how it came from the factory because I bought it used, but it came to me with very nice low action and hardly any fret buzz. Everything else seemed to be set up tip-top as well, I think the previous owner may have payed to have it set up. The strings were intonated perfectly and the pickup height was spot on. No flaws were found except for possibly the most minor blem possible: One of the two white PVC dot markers on the side of the 12th fret is missing, however, I do not know if that is how it came from the factory, the previous owner may have lost it. // 8

Reliability & Durability: This guitar has and will withstand Live playing, and I have gigged it without a backup. The hardware is sturdy and secure. The strap buttons worked, but I fitted a homemade pair of straplocks just to be extra secure. The finish seems nice and thick, I have bumped the body on chairs and walls and stuff and nothing has chipped off yet. // 8

Impression: Considering that the majority of what I play is influenced by John Paul Jones and Noel Redding, it is no accident that this bass suits my style. I have been playing a couple years and my only other bass is a starter kit Dean that wasn't really intended to last me too long. I saw this bass as the perfect upgrade because there are so many things you can do to it to suit your sound and personality. This is already a great instrument, but with new pickups and a new bridge it would be at least as good as a Geddy Lee or maybe a Highway One. Down the road if I decide to go with something more expensive this will be the most perfect and reliable backup bass you could possibly have. If it was stolen I would probably get an American Jazz Bass, only because I have more money now than when I bought this one. I knew before I bought it that I didn't want anything but a Jazz Bass. The only one I compared it to was the deluxe active, and while that one looked nice and had a good active EQ, I couldn't justify the difference in price. // 9

overall: 9

Reviewed by: djflats, on march 22, 2008

Purchased from: Ebay

Features: My Standard Jazz is a '92, MIM. It has 20 frets and a rosewood fretboard on a nice, slim jazz neck. Mine is an arctic white with a white pick guard and for a 16 year old bass the finish has held up good. The bass has 3 control knobs. One is for the volume of the neck pup, one for the bridge pup, and the third being for tone. The Standard is passive, which is what I prefer. The pups are old but they have plenty of punch in them. Standard J-bass pick ups are used on it.One thing I do not like about the bass is the tuners sloppy. Vintage Style tuners have too much slop in them so I replaced them with Schallers. The stock tuners do hold the bass in tune though, they just feel cheap. // 9

Sound: I play different types of music ranging from modern rock to old time country. By using the controls on the bass and the controls on my Ampeg BA-115 I can get just about any sound I want from the bass. I play with acoustic and electric players. When I play with the guys with their acoustics I set the amp on about 2-3 and control the volume with my bass. The bass will cut through the electric guitars good too. If I need more punch I just dial in the bridge pup and it cuts. The neck pup gives a deep, warm sound and at times eerie, kind of cool. Favor the bridge and you can dig in and get some punch and growl. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: I got the bass used so it needed some work. I had a set up done on it because the action needed lowered. All it needed was a little crank on the truss rod and some adjustments on the bridge saddles. Like I said before, the only thing I didn't like is the tuners. The Vintage tuners are sloppy. The bass is put together good though, seems very solid. // 9

Reliability & Durability: Considering it has lasted 16 years I'd say it's both reliable and durable. I wouldn't think twice about gigging, it will take the abuse. The paint is still on it so I'd say the finish is good. Just change the tuners, too much slop. How many times do I have to mention this? // 9

Impression: Overall I like this bass a lot. I play different styles of music, rock, classic rock, alt rock, southern rock and country but the bass serves it's purpose playing all. I just started playing bass about 14 months ago after a 25 year lay-off. The equipment has changed a lot so I'm still learning about the new stuff. But I am satisfied with the Standard Jazz and wouldn't hesitate on getting another if something happened to it. I like the feel and sound or the bass, pluses. The negative is tuners. I'd recommend the Fender Standard Jazz to others, whether playing at home or gigging. Try it out and see what you think. // 9

Reviewed by: unregistered, on may 15, 2008

Purchased from: guitar center

Features: Brand New MIM Fender jazz with 20 frets, alder body and maple neck with rosewood laminated over it. It has passive electronics with two volume and a single tone control. Has the two standard jazz pickups and stock tuners. Came with a Fender gig bag that seems decent enough. // 8

Sound: I play mostly blues with some classic rock interspersed and the jazz really caters to this type of music. I play this through a Fender Bassman 250 which gives a nice fat sound. I am not looking for a lot of high end or trebly/clanky tone(I have a '78 Rick 001 for that) I was looking for a straight ahead blues bass to form a real workingmans rhythym section. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: I played a few MIM Fender Jazz basses and found some subtle and not to subtle differences. I bought the Midnight Wine version which really is a beautiful color and like a past review said, must be seen up close to be appreciated. The pickups needed a slight tweak for height, but everything else was good to go. GC tech tuned it and checked intonation and it was dead on for the latter.This bass was a demo, yet the finish was flawless. The neck fit and pickguard alignment were perfect. There is a small indentation on the neck itself close to the pocket which may have been caused by clamping at the factory. Minor stuff to be expected for the price. // 9

Reliability & Durability: With care, I hope this bass will provide me with many years of Live playing. The only weak point I see is the bridge which could use an upgrade. You could probably use it without a backup, but I don't leave anything to chance. I am sure you could dump hundreds into upgrading pickups, bridge, and tuners, but what is the point? The reason people buy this model is price and it delivers based on that. // 8

Impression: Once again, I love the warm tone it lends to blues music and find myself using it as my main axe quite often. I have been playing for 25 plus years, almost exclusively Rickenbacker, but that sound doesn't lend itself to blues. If it were stolen I would buy another without hesitation. I love the thin unlacquered neck for ease of movement. I have large hands, but it is still a welcome relief. // 8

overall: 9.4

Reviewed by: capt.groove, on august 09, 2008

Price paid: £ 769

Purchased from: GAK

Features: The new American Standard Jazz Bass, is a bass that's needed to be played, to be believed. Brand new for 2008, the New Jazz (and it's Precision Sister), launch Leo Fenders Designs into modern day times. Made in the USA, this bass features 20 medium jumbo frets, a beatiful traditional Jazz-thin maple neck, with a satin finish. The fretboard comes in either maple or rosewood, and is in a gloss finish as well as the headstock. You have your classic J-Bass body, and a new thinner finish on the paint, giving a lighter instrument. The bridge, can either be as a conventional jazz bass bridge, or now strung-thru the body, giving great sustain.The bass has the standard 2 J-Bass Pickups, and 2 volume, and 1 tone control. The tuners have the 'elephant ear' design, but they have been modified to also reduce weight. A new lockable hard case comes with the bass, which also includes a cloth, strap, and a cable (and of course a manual, and truss rod tool). // 10

Sound: The Jazz Bass, as always, has a brilliant smooth sound with the neck pickup. With the bridge pickup soloed, you get a more treble sound. Mixing them together with about 80% Neck and 20% Bridge gives a rather nice sound. I use my bass for many styles of music, and it fits in perfectly, both sound, volume and tone. The new finish neck also gives easy smooth slides, for those Who wish to 'jazz it up' Teamed up with my Ashdown Blue 180 12" combo, and a DigiTech Bass Multi Chorus Stomp Box, it provides excelant versitality. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: Not much to say on this subject. The bass was ready to play, out of the case, with no imperfections on the instrument it's self. The bass came with full protection on parts like the stratchplate and tuners. The action on the bass was perfect for me, especially as I refuse to use a plectrum. My bass is in the Olympic White finish with a Tortoise Shell Pickguard, and these did not contain and problems. All the screws on the bass were as flush as they should be with the bass. // 9

Reliability & Durability: I have not yet had the chance to gig this bass, but from it's feel, I'm sure it will Live up to what's needed by the gigging bassist. The hardware feels secure, and stays firmly where it should do. The strap buttons are solid, and are shaped in such away where it's near impossible for the strap to slip. Yes, I feel you can depend on this bass, but as always if you are gigging, it is very important you have a spare bass. As I haven't had a chance to 'road test' this beast yet, it's hard to say whether the finish will last, and anyway it's a Fender, it's going to (well apart from Jaco's Bass anyway). // 9

Impression: The Music I play is mainly covers, of artists like Kate Nash, and The Feeling. However, away from the band, I play lots of different artists, like Elvis Costello, The Jam, and The Clash. I've been playing for nearly 4 years, and started on a Squier Bronco Bass (I only have small hands), and a Fender Rumble 15 Combo. Scince then I've collected a Squier Precision Special (with both P-Bass and J-Bass pickups, and a J-Bass neck). As I mentioned above, I have an Ashdown Bass Combo as my amp. If this bass was stolen, I would certainly re-purchase it. it's a fantastic bass with all the power you need to play those licks loud and clear. I love practically everthing about this bass. The only one point I can come come across that is poor about this bass, is not bass itself. The strap supplied with the bass is far to thin for comfortable playing, I suggest using a thick strap with this bass (however, I'm a teenager, I'm not that strong). I did originally have a Highway One Jazz, but the neck pickup was totally dead, so I sent it back to Fender. They have since refunded that bass, and put it towards this one. Compared to the Highway One, for me, this bass is superior. // 10

Reviewed by: unregistered, on august 26, 2004

Price paid: $ 693.57

Purchased from: McCormacks

Features: Recently Purchased a new Fender Jazz (mex 21 frets) with a Sage Green Metallic Finish and a 3ply White, black, white pick guard. With 3 Control knobs 2 for volume 1 for tone. Came With a Basic Thin Bag which I wouldnt use for transport for its sheer thinness. Bought a new Pickguard for it though a 3ply Black White Black one which makes it look much better. // 10

Sound: // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: Everything seemed to be set up perfect when I got it amazingly it was in tune as well when I bought it. This seems to be an perfectly made bass. // 10

Reliability & Durability: This Bass is yet to go with me to a gig as it was only recently bought but it will do its fair share of gigs in its future and from friends reports of using Fender Jazz Bass's they are extremely durable and reliable. Would Def take this to a gig without a back up no problem. // 10

Impression: Overall Impression is that this is a great Bass. It gives of perfect sound and its easy to play. Will be reliable at gigs and in practice and will last a lifetime. Until I have enough money to buy and try an American Made one this bass will be my one and only. // 10

overall: 8.2

Reviewed by: Mitchell?, on january 29, 2009

Features: The Fender Mexican J Bass I'm reviewing has 20 frets, on a slim J Bass neck. It's got a rosewood fretboard with dot inlays, and a skunk stripe on the back. It's got all your regular J bass appointments, with two J bass pickups to a two volume and one tone knob. It has a very nice Electron Blue finish, very classy looking. // 8

Sound: This bass is great for my style, which is a mish-mash of classic rock and Indie. I use this bass for everything, although it's mostly used for some form of rock, and Indie like Death Cab For Cutie. I use it in front a Fender Rumble 75, and a tiny Fender practice amp, and either way it sounds good. This bass has a very versatile tone, from bright funk, to super-warm rock bass tones. With this bass you can get all sorts of useable tones, great for all genres. With the tone rolled down you get a nice deep and warm thumpy tone, great for classic rock. Roll the tone back up, and you've got the tone for Megadeth's "Peace Sells".

One of my favorite tones is to roll up the volume on the neck pickup, turn the tone to about 4 or 5. You get a nice warm tone, with some bite if you roll the tone back up a little. Very sweet for Indie, or anything clean. // 8

Action, Fit & Finish: The action was okay from the factory, but with a little fiddling I got it where I wanted it. I was pretty surprised because most Fender basses are set-up really well, I guess mine was an exception. The bass didn't have any flaws when I got it, it was pristine. The finish was great, the frets were great, the hardware was great, the nut was great etc. etc. Everything was super tight, I could've gigged with it the day I got it. // 8

Reliability & Durability: This bass survives live playing all the time, it's fine. It's not fragile in any sense. The hardware is tough, not cheap crap. The strap buttons are solid, I haven't had a strap give it out on me before. One thing though is that the neck is starting to warp, and it's not because of extreme humidity or anything, all my other instruments are fine. It's becoming a problem with playability, and I'll probably have to replace the neck soon. Honestly though, I don't think it's an issue with the bass, so much as the conditions. You have to take care of your instruments, which mine wasn't before I got it. Well, I always wanted an all maple neck on it anyways... // 8

Impression: Overall, this bass has served me well, and I'm impressed with it. It's worked great for when I play all sorts of rock, and it's hung in there when I play Indie. It sounds great whatever I play, and it's damn good bass in my opinion. If someone stole this bass I would probably go with a Jaguar Bass. I love J basses, but I really dig Jaguar's. If a Lake Placid blue J bass with a maple neck & fretboard came my way though, I'd have to snatch that up. I love the tones I get out of this bass. It's super versatile, and could fit in any gig, whether it be high-voltage pop-punk, to a chill jazz trio, to maybe even a metal gig. There's nothing more I want out of this bass, it's got everything I need, I just wish it didn't need a new neck. It's getting rough to play, and because of it, I haven't been playing bass as much. Overall though, this is a damn good bass for the pricepoint, it has a great tone, and through a sweet bass rig it'll Shine. // 9

overall: 8.4

Reviewed by: pie_man_25, on january 05, 2007

Purchased from: Pawn Shop

Features: I got it used, so it's a bit cheap, plus it came with a gig bag and strap. It is a '94 model, made in mexico, 20 small frets and slim fretboard, hust the way I like it. Made out of Alder with two Jazz bass pickups (of course) and two volume pots and a treble reduction pot. // 8

Sound: For the Price I got it for, it's perfect for me, it gets a bit noisy, but I could replace the pickups when I get some money, I play it with a Warwick Halfstack (which I also got used) and it has a great versatility in a pretty cheap package. I'd still rather have a US made Fender, but so far no other complaints. // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: String action needed a bit of adhustment, and the fretbord was dirty, but you can expect that used, so I cleaned it up. It looks prety good, but offset waist bodies are hard to get stands for. The body is nicely contoured so it's comfortable to play anywhere. // 8

Reliability & Durability: So far, It's been awesome at Live playing, when using flatwound or greased up strings, (apparently ther's a product that can grease strings so you don't get that screach when rubing your fingers against it) I have a crappy strap that falls off of all my guitars, so I can't judge. I'd still use a backup in a serious gig though, slim necks can warp sometimes, andI don't take many risks like that. The finish is generally solid, beat up in the back, but those were there when I bought it. // 7

Impression: Overall a great Bass, I play various genres of music, mainly rock, so it's nice to have the versatilityof two pickups and a tone pot, I'd still get a new one if it wer lost or broken or something. So far the sensitive pickups mean I need to keep new strings on it and this is my first and only bass guitar so far, so I can't really complain, I've had it for a couple years and it lept it's value so far. // 9

Reviewed by: unregistered, on september 01, 2006

Purchased from: Wentworth Music

Features: It was made in 2005 or 2006 and was made in Mexico, it has 20 frets (I have the fretless model), It has a rosewood fingerboard with a maple back and head of the neck, I am not sure wut the body is made of, it has the sunburst finish, it's a Strat style body, it has a Standard Jazz Bass bridge I think, passice electronics, it has 2 volume controls (one for the neck pickup and one for the bridge) and a tone control, the pickups are just jazz style pickups that came stock with the bass, it has non-locking tuners, and it came with a nice Fender deluxe bag I think because my Squier bass that I had before hand had a case made by Fender that is not nearly as good as the one that came with this bass. It came with a white pickquard and I'm not really diggin' the style of it so I ordered a cool black one (should be in soon hopefully). // 9

Sound: It's the very very greatest of the great sound and tone I was looking for it has that beautiful fretless sound and when I turn off the neck pickup it and turn the tone off and after setting my Fender 15b Frontman amp to 10-low, 5-mid, and 1-high it sounds damn near like a stand up bass if I play it the right way (just like Jaco Pastorius Who is the greatest bass player to ever live on this world nobody will have ever been better than him and none ever will). It came with flatwound strings (total score) which is the best for the style I play jazz mostly on bass. I think they are worth around $100-170 if you buy them seperate. It has a variety of sounds I can set it to cool up-beat fast stuff like Jaco would play or if I set it to the neck pickup it is not bad for slapping but then again it's a fretless and it's hard to get a good slap sound from a fretless. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: It is completely fine the way they set it (I don't know if they set it at the store or if it is just left from when it came from the factory in Mexico. It is completely fine the way everything on it is set up. However this is the one bad thing about the bass that really pissed me off after I took off the white pickguard. Iwanted to see if it looked muich like Jaco's bass if I took the pickguard off. after I got it off there was no joke a hole from a drill under where the pick-guard was covering over it. I mean honestly who drills a whole in a bass (unless they were smart enough to figure that people would do this so the bass could look like Jaco's signature which I could have bought for more than twice the price of the one I bought which would make sense). So now that I can't have it pick-guardless I have found a solution to the problem and I ordered a black pickguard so it will look a lot better than the blande white one. And I'm thinking of buying some metal control knobs to replace the black plastic ones but they are exopensive to get 3 alan key tighten one for a Fender Jazz bass (you can only buy normal priced ones in packs of 2 and they can't be tightened with alan keys so if I get the $ for them I will get them. // 7

Reliability & Durability: This bass will definently withstand live playing, the hardware will last as it seems, I changed the strap buttons for ones that came with the stap-locks that I bought and they are completely fine. I depend on it completely there is nothing that I can see that is wrong with it. I had to trade in my beginner bass for this to help bring down the price so I will have to use this at gigs without a backup for a while. // 10

Impression: I play jazz on bass mostly and it is THE perfect match. I've been playing for 3 years, I have to use a Fender 15B frontman at the moment for I cannot afford a good big bass amp (I want a Laney half-stack guitar amp before hand for playing my electric at gigs in my metal band) but after I get that with the money that I get for my birthday and after trading in my Cort X-6 because the floating bridge is too hard and annoying to Switch tunings I am going to trade that in and get an Ibanez RG7123 (7-string with fixed bridge) for that will be far more kickass for playing metal and a hell of a lot easier to Switch tunings and will be fun to play crazy 7-string stuff. And after I get those things with the $ I'm going to make working in the summer if I get the Laney and Ibanez I am going to get an SWR workingpro 15 I think because you cannot go wrong with any of those brands. Back to the Fender standard fretless bass if it were stolen I'd hunt the bastard that stole it down and get it back how I'm going to leave that as a no comment. I love the fact that I finally have a kickass bass that I can play fun jazz stuff on and make it sound really nice. Before I bought it I thought about getting a 5-string Cort but decided I want a fretless much much more and could use it for much much more. So I looked around for a fretless for a low price and I found out Washburn made one but I tried out a Fender and got addicted to it so I saved the $ and bought one. After I bought the Fender I saw that they had a Washbrun fretless in a different store and tried it out the fingerboard looked like and felt like plastic, it was out of tune horribly, and it sounded like shit. So I thanked Jesus for bringing my eyes to that fretless Fender bass. And I have named all of the things that I wish I had and if everything goes smoothly and my parents don't say nobody gets nothing for there birthdays or christmas because were going to Hawaii then I will get all of those things hopefully. Buy a Fender I garaumtee that you will never doubt yourself. Have a good one. // 9

overall: 9.4

Reviewed by: BassSurfer, on january 04, 2006

Purchased from: Sam Ash Music Store.

Features: The jazz bass such a popular bass in the history of the bass guitar. I loved mined when I forst tried it its great. Nice fast neck and alot of various tones male this bass great for any type of music which consists of punk-ska-rock-metal-jazz-funk etc. I also enjoy this bass for slapping and popping as well. It has 2 volume controls and one tone control which givesy ou great sounds. The J-Bass pickups give nice, warm, tones which can treat your style well. It has 20 frets which are a nice size which can make even the starter bass player start his bass days off to a great start. // 9

Sound: I play from punk-metal-rock and this bass suits all those needs. The two volume and one tone are great for any type of music and bassist's can find a vast variety of tones for them to enjoy. I plug through SWR and Mesa Boogie amps and it sounds amazing. Its not even noisy which can be great for any player. // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: The action is amazing, the pickups were great and the bridge could not of been better. Everything was great nothing more to say or talk about this bass. // 10

Reliability & Durability: This bass can withstand gigs, studio, and of course pratice and home. This bass can probably take a good beating (not like you want it to) but can. The starp buttons are nice and never come loose or seperate the bass strap with the buttons. This was a great feature The finish which for me was (sage green metallic) is great so far and will last for years to come. // 9

Impression: This bass matches all of kinds of music and is great for any bass player who wants a great sounding bass which can deliver many diffrent tones. I've been playing for 5 years and this is my first Fender I ever had. I also own the Ibanez SR505, The Ibanez K5, and a Washburn XB-102 Bantam series. This Fender is diffrent from these (in a good way which I like). Nothing is wrong with this but if I could ask for one more thing on it, it would be to install another tone control knob (even know the tones are tasty and awesome). Get this bass try it out youl love it instantly! // 9

Reviewed by: unregistered, on october 14, 2005

Purchased from: ?

Features: This guitar isnt mine, it's my dad's but I use it in one the bands I'm in. He bought it around 20 years ago, for a bargin because the guy he bought it off didnt know what he was selling. It has 20 frets and a maple neck and body, made in the US. It has a brown quited finish with a white pic gaurd. It has a star style shape I think, it has 3 controles 2 volume and 1 tone. It has a hard case made of wood and satin carpet inside. // 10

Sound: I play everything from Metallica, Trvium to Green Day, New Found Glory, The Calling ect. and it fits all of them perfectly. I basiclly whatever amp I can at gigs, but when we practicei use my dads 100 watt hh amp. There is loads of variety. It sounds awesome! // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: The action is a dream, I've played a number guitars and basses, and the on the jazz is second to none. I don't play around with the pickups and stuff because it's my dads pride and joy. The only problem is at the bridge which wasn't like theat when he got it. One of the bolts that holds the string support is missing, but we are lookin for one. // 10

Reliability & Durability: It's been going for 20 years and there aint any signs of it conckin out anytime soon. Nothing isn't working. I would use it all the because it can take it 100%. // 10

Impression: Overall, it doesnt matter what type of style you play, heavy or soft, because you can give it a dull, heavy sound or use the uniqe "twang" you get with a Jazz. So it don't matter what you play. // 10

overall: 8

Reviewed by: MeAndMyGuitar13, on april 04, 2006

Purchased from: Berts Music Store

Features: First introduced in 1960 as the "Deluxe Model", it was renamed the Jazz Bass as Fender felt that its redesigned neck, narrower and more rounded than that of the Precision Bass, would appeal more to jazz musicians. The Jazz Bass has two bipolar "Jazz" pickups. As well as having a slightly different, less symmetrical and more contoured body shape (known in Fender advertising as the "offset waist contour" body), the Jazz Bass neck is noticeably narrower towards the nut than that of the more common Fender Precision Bass. The original intention was to make it easier for upright-bass players to make the switch to electric bass. It has three control knobs (instead of the two of the Fender Precision Bass), two of them controlling the volume of the two pickups and one for the overall tone. A fourth, push button control is available on some models of Jazz Bass produced after mid-2003. Known as the "S-1 Switch" this feature allows the pickups to operate in standard, parallel wiring, or alternatively in series wiring when the switch is depressed. While in series, both pickups function as a single unit with one volume control, giving the Jazz Bass a sound similar to the Precision Bass. Design Features. Some "Deluxe" Jazz Bass models have been produced which feature active pickups rather than the traditional passive ones. In place of the usual single passive tone-rolloff control, these models have three separate equaliser controls: bass and treble response are controlled by the base and top, respectively, of a stacked double panpot, while midrange is controlled by a second panpot. The Jazz Bass has a warm, fat, funky sound, without as much high-end punch as the Precision. This makes it ideal for finger-style players (bassists who pluck the strings with their fingers rather than using a pick), and the sound of the fretless Jazz Bass became a classic of jazz fusion music thanks to famous bassist Jaco Pastorius. It also became a classic in the hands of bassists such as John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin, Noel Redding, John Entwistle (in the 1960s) and Geddy Lee of Rush, to name but a few. Vintage examples from the 1960s and 1970s are now highly coveted and fetch four and five-figure sums, when they can be located, and the new models remain a popular choice today of Rock, Jazz, and Fusion musicians. // 9

Sound: This suits my music style perfectly! I like a smooth and jazzy bass. Not really into the raspy metal basses. I am using a 55 lb. tube amp. Not using any effects, just the thick sound that I need. There is a good boom to it when its plugged in, a very rich brisk sound. The guitar can range from jazz (due to its name), all the way to bright sticato sounding. Mainly depends on the type of amp. // 7

Action, Fit & Finish: Not sure really how it was manufactured, but it must have been put together with care for the sleek and light weight body. the pickups really set the mood of the bass and can make or break it. The top is mostly flat and shines due to the sleek surface. The bridge is all silver, good grip. There were a couple of small scratches but nothing damaging. // 7

Reliability & Durability: Most definitely, nothing should create problems for a live concert. The hardware is durable for many many yeras of use. The strap hasn't collapsed on me ever. I worry about some of the things I do with the strap coming off, but never does it disconnect. I always have a backup but I wouldn't worry if there wasn't any backup. I have had it for well over 4 years now but like any guitar (bass), it will wear down, conditions are still high though. // 8

Impression: I definitely bought this specific bass for jazz, hence the name (Fender "Jazz" Bass), the match is phenominal. I have been playing for about 5 years now, I own a Penvey Patriot electric guitar, Inidiana acoustic guitar, lefty classical, Fender Jazz Bass, and an Ibanez thin neck. If I would have asked something it would have been what is a good price to sell it at if I were to ever sell it. I would have gotten it again or another jazz bass type. Being able to play without any trouble of a string breaking on the beautiful neck. I don't really like the feature of two volume nobs. I never can get the perfect sound. I love the simplicity of the electronic hardware inside the beast. I can always fix a problem no matter how small/big the size. I looked around for a while at Penveys, Ibanezs, etc, but nothing seemed as satisfying as this bass. I chose this particular bass because of the selected sound and tone it makes. I definitely wish it had a wamy bar, but not many bass's have them! // 9

overall: 9.6

Reviewed by: KevinKung, on august 02, 2004

Price paid: $ 550

Purchased from: Guitar Center

Features: I bought this bass at a reasonable price w/hard case. The Standard Jazz Bass was made in Mexico (21 frets). The thin maple neck makes it easy for my fingers to run my way through the frets. There are also 3 control knobs for tone and volume. The color of it was 3 tone sunburst and 3 ply white pickguard. // 8

Sound: // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: The action of the guitar was well done. I had standard jazz vintage pickups. I made sure it was bookmatched top and that there were not any flaws with it before buying it. // 10

Reliability & Durability: The guitar can withstand live playing easily. Every year, I would recommend a change in pick ups and strings. I could bring only one of these to a jam session or gig without a back up. // 10

Impression: Overall, the guitar can fit all styles of music. I've been playing bass for 3 years and I this is the best bass I've had yet. Although it took me a long time to decide between Precision and Jazz, I think that the general sound of it fit into the style I played like a glove. // 10

Reviewed by: unregistered, on june 16, 2005

Features: // 8

Sound: // 8

Action, Fit & Finish: The offset waist style body moves some of the body out of the way of your arm. If you are sitting down this is the most comfortable bass ever. Standing up I suppose a P-Bass is more comfortable butits close. Finish was flawless, wont crack unless u set it aflame and throw it out of a helicopter onto a new york city sidewalk. // 10

Reliability & Durability: // 8

Impression: Great bass. Definetly better than a P-Bass as far as standard bases go, but in the American series things start to heat up. // 6

overall: 9.6

Reviewed by: punkbass479, on july 11, 2005

Purchased from: Guitar Center

Features: 2002 Mexican made Model. 20 meduim frets on a rosewood fretboard. Alder body, maple neck. Midnight wine metallic finish. J-Bass-style body. Standard-stock topload-bridge. Passive electronics. 2 volume controls and one tone control. 2 standard single-coil bass pickups. Non-locking Fender-style tuners. // 10

Sound: // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: Everything was perfect for my standards except the strings, (but like that matters, I can change them later). I think the only real flaw was that it was a J-Bass, so it was big and heavy. But it is the most comfortable bass ever when you sit down with it. // 8

Reliability & Durability: I haven't used it live yet, but everything is extremely solid and tough, so I'm guessing it is very durable. The strap buttons are small but they hold better than my old bass's which were bigger. If I did a gig with it, I'd probably have a backup, just to be safe, but I doubt I would need it. // 10

Impression: Some people would say a Jazz Bass wouldn't be good for rock, but I think it couldn't be a better match. The thin neck is easy to use, and rockers need something easy to play because they're playing so fast. I've been playing for only a year and a half, but I did a lot of homework before buying this or doing this review. My expertise isn't as good as others, but I think I know enough. I love it! // 10

Comments

[MeAndMyGuitar13]

Nice reviews everyone! People should definitely get a Fender Jazz Bass.

[snakeyes9510]

Im getting a Fender Jazz Bass in a few weeks. Comming from eBay from a good friend. Can't wait to pimp it out either with the bridge/pickup covers and a pearliod pickguard!

[ApplesforAndrew]

I may write a review soon. I just recently got Fender Jazz Bass. I love its sound and the slimmer neck makes it easier to change notes. Its looks great too. The finish is a Cherry Sunburst.

[Nodding Donkey]

Great reviews, although I disagree with the statement "buying on line is a no no". I purchased a Jazz Bass on-line (from GAK). Tried it in my local store first, then saved myself over £100 buying on-line, and the set up was fine.

[scottishbass123]

mmmm...I want this bass but I like to play fast but also be heard over the guitar, somtimes, what do I do?

[PunkRawkFreak]

scottishbass123 wrote:

mmmm...I want this bass but I like to play fast but also be heard over the guitar, somtimes, what do I do?

Maybe try a pedal. A bass distortion pedal works well for me. These are easily criticised as some believe distortion must be left to guitar alone, but it does sound awesome and can really come through the guitar.

[Strat_Monkey]

mmmm...I want this bass but I like to play fast but also be heard over the guitar, somtimes, what do I do?

Hey, Flea (from RHCP, in case you live under a rock somewhere) almost always uses one of these and you can pretty much always hear the bass in their songs both live and on the album.

[cleadus_134]

I was just about to get one of these, but then I saw my current bass for a better price, and more of the features I wanted. But If I get another bass, I think this one may be it.

[ZoxRoxMySox]

dude this bass is sooooo sweet!! almost as sweet as my guild js2

[Quintin]

even if you suck at guitar chicks will still pick you up...just play one note and they will ripe there cloths off for you im dead serious

[Shermy]

good call imprisoned, yeah it is true guys guitar gets u the chicks, but bass is still cool. Jaco def the best with victor wooten and bailey and that mob and id def say that jazz bass is in my opinion the coolest and best sounding bass u can get. If you're not a retarded spastic pick bassist then anyhting to do with bass is cool. And if u want to be cooler get a fretless neck, or if ur like my lefty bro who is left handed make it fretless urself.
Leave the picks to guitarists fags!!!!!

[metpajoe]

damn imprisoned your an arrogant ****er...bass has evry single technique that guitar has plus a few that guitar hasnt..and there are many more excellent bassists, victor wooten,flea,billy sheehan,les claypool...don't put something down till you try it yourself

[guitarkid2113]

Yeah, Imprisoned. I play guitar and I still really admire bass players. They have slapping and popping... guitarists pretty much just strum and pluck. There are a lot of good bassists- Jah Wobble, Aston Family Man Barrett, James Jamerson Sr., Flea, Bootsy Collins and still more. And getting chicks isn't what playing guitar is all about. I play because that's what I love to do. Man, I'm thirteen and I don't play for chicks. Man...

[imprisoned]

yes, i agree that all those bassists are very good, but no one can be compared to THE ALMIGHTY JACO. His jazz bass skills are better than the skills of a god. HE INVENTED JAZZ BASS!

[scottishbass123]

strat monkey it isnt hard to hear bass over john's playing the bass is more the tune than the guitar is
somtimes

[snakeyes9510]

wtf guys? lol I mean come on, no one plays guitar to get chicks Thats why Fender made an electric bass...

[RainbowBassist]

wtf. okay, first of all, I am a chick. and i don't get attracted to guys who play guitar. if anyhing, guys who play the bass, or drums. all my guy friends who play guitar can only play frickin power chords and green day and blink, and they suck at it!!!! play bass like me.
btw, strats are alright.

[ApplesforAndrew]

why the hell are people discouraging bass? imagine rock without bassists. Theres gotta be tons of people that play guitar already and half of them suck. No offense to guitarists but guitar is getting overpopulated.

[PunkRocka182]

Bass is just as hard as guitar if u play it properly

[Homer F.]

Cliff Burton is the best bassist!

[metpajoe]

evryone who puts down bass go listen to any song and turn the bass off...see how it sounds then...also well said rainbowbassist

[shakeeb_090]

bass players are friggin under rated dont u think? i mean in some songs their parts are just as hard if not harder than the guitar

[ZoxRoxMySox]

i agree. bass players dont get enough credit. i play both bass and guitar and playen bass is just as hard as playen guitar

[beeboshain]

never thought much of fender basses myself, dont get want i want from em which i think lets em down cause to me it dosnt have the wide range of tones that some basses have

[Killibinizik]

Dude, fender basses are incredibly versatile; there is a reason why they're so popular, and are sold anywhere that sells basses. They don't have a wide range of tones (because for the most part they're passive), but the Jazz itself can alter its tone in quite a few ways.

Active basses are the ones to look at if you want to alter and control every single aspect of your bass's sound. Also fender basses don't need thousands of tones available, the sound they have is fine enough for many, many of the genres of music.

[LacesOut]

This is a great bass for anyone ANY genre of music and it doesn't need to be messed around with to get a great tone. The only I had with mine was a little buzzing on the high frets (Just adjust the string height) I got it for 200 at a pawn shop.

Bass players are just as talented as guitar players. Most guitar players that say bass is easy never even played the bass. Also bass playes are usually smarter (Just an opinion).

[T2H]

just got one of these in midnight wine! IT ROX! IT BEATS MY THUNDERBIRD!!!!!

[dugR]

LacesOut :
Bass players are just as talented as guitar players. Most guitar players that say bass is easy never even played the bass. Also bass playes are usually smarter (Just an opinion).

wow, you are a little confused there buddy. How can you possibly think that bass players are smarter?

that is completly false, and most importantly irrelevant to music.

also, have you ever played guitar before? Or are you becoming that of which you hate, a person who judges before playing an instrument?

I just got this fender jazz bass as a gift today and i can already play every song i tried so far and i play guitar.

try to keep this on topic ok? no sense starting fights with 12 year olds over the internet.

[bassist_of_hell]

guitar is a lil more hard to learn than bass... but when you learn how to play, its easy to get better, the bass is easy to learn, but one of the most difficult instruments to get better, i mean , theres a lot of person that are excelent in guitar, but theres a few that can handle the bass very well

[maogall]

Yeah I agree, bass is easy to play, but very hard to get good at, and very easy to suck at.

Yeah, i'm saving up for a Fender Jazz, Arctic white looks so cool.

[snakeyes9510]

wow... fighting on the net is like winning the special olympics... whoever wins is still a retard... haha oh my, my cousin is "challenged"... oh well more power to her

[kaptink]

Nodding Donkey wrote:

Great reviews, although I disagree with the statement "buying on line is a no no". I purchased a Jazz Bass on-line (from GAK). Tried it in my local store first, then saved myself over £100 buying on-line, and the set up was fine.

GAK have to set them up to sell in their north lanes shop. Man I feel so lucky to have those guys on my doorstep.

[foomandan]

Quintin wrote:

even if you suck at guitar chicks will still pick you up...just play one note and they will ripe there cloths off for you im dead serious

playing a insterment will get you chicks it doesnt matter as long as your in a rock band youll get um

[chilibassist]

uh, you dont need to be in a rock band. how bout funk, blues, acoustic, or jazz?

[hemi-san]

well i do mainly guitar but also alot of bass. but youve also gotta be good at whatever you do. you cant suck and expect women to flock towards you. evry goofball can play smoke on the water, but thats doesn't make them a womanizer. besides real musicians play for music and let chicks be a nice side affect.

[hemi-san]

not to undermine the fact that it is a scientific fact that chicks dig cool musicians (mainly guitarist, bassists, and drummers) it all depends on how good you are
the better the song=the better the chicks

[Triviumfan54]

Homer F. wrote:

Cliff Burton is the best bassist!

You friggin idiot! Have you not seen Steve Harris? He is blatantly better.

[hemi-san]

i dont know man billy sheehan is pretty good

[bluesblaster]

for all you guitarists looking for chicks, remember that the drummers have the rhythm

second, bass is incomparable to guitar as it is not frequently used as a lead instrument (trying to add harmonies and rhythms to a guitarist's leads can be just as hard as making those leads yourself)

ApplesForAndrew is definately right as well, guitar is getting overpopulated (start punching out the low end)

[hemi-san]

there are times when bass is used as lead such as sometimes when i play in my praise team

[Jawbreaker1492]

ok most of u guys are so freaking dumb i play guitar for the hell of it not for chicks all though it helps get u the girl most of the time and imprisoned or w/e the hell ur name is u call urself a guitar player keep in mind bass is a type of ghuitar and u anit gonna get no where with that attitude u freaking tard how can u have a band without bass although some bands like metallica have admitted to turning down the bass to an almost indetectable level they still wouldnt sound the same without it and sure maybe guitar is starting to get over populated but mostly with wannabe players like imprisoned and sure drummers have the rhythm (cept mine hes to white to keep a beat)but who cares a band has all of these things u cant have a band with one person there are good guitar players ( kurt cobain was not one of them) and good bass players and good drummers and it takes all of them to make a real hardcore band

[hemi-san]

like i said-let them be a nice side affect

[ArcherTheVMan]

Triviumfan54 wrote:

Homer F. wrote:

Cliff Burton is the best bassist!

You friggin idiot! Have you not seen Steve Harris? He is blatantly better.

You kind sir, are a fool. they may both be good but stevie doesn't quite measure up to the Cliff.

[hemi-san]

agreed

[nikk axx]

The standard jazz is one of favorite four string basses. Depending on the chemistry you might stumble on the greatest bass that you've ever owned. Leo Fender got it right the very first time and you might be lucky enough to get a great one...good luck

[nikk axx]

Oh and to end the discussion on Steve Harris or Cliff Burton...the answer is Jaco Pastorious....If you haven't heard of him then you both have a lot to learn.

[winterburn69]

How freaking shallow do you have to be to just play guitar for chicks? I've been playing bass for almost 2 years, and I've had my girlfriend way longer than that, so you don't need a guitar or bass to get chicks. And if you do need an instrument (musical or not) to get chicks, you really can't be that interesting, not-shallow, or just good all around, so thats pretty pathetic. Also, I also think bass is way more fun and experimental than guitar because guitar has become boring, expecially with the popular crap music of today.

[P220ST]

I fought like an animal to get into Med School, succeeded and never got laid. Ever. Before that I tought skydiving which any 8 year old of normal intellect can be tought to do, and every weekend I thought I was a chick-magnet. What this has to do with the bass guitar, who knows, but people sure are strange when you get down to it. It may be shallow, but if consciousness has ever taught me anything, it's that between the ages of 13 and 75, most everything people do between 1am and the following midnight they do to get laid.

[hemi-san]

anybody ahave any idea if j reynolds basses are are good?

Checked.

[pie_man_25]

nikk axx wrote:

Oh and to end the discussion on Steve Harris or Cliff Burton...the answer is Jaco Pastorious....If you haven't heard of him then you both have a lot to learn.

all of you guys are wrong it's definitely John Entwhistle

[edus]

i'll be buying a fender jazz bass within the next few weeks, i've played them in the shops and will probably order from GAK for my money's sake.
and although this is straying from the subject... but you can hardly judge a bassist without considering their style of music? you cant bassists when you are lookign at funk, jazz, metal, whatever! also John Entwhistle Jaco Pastorius and kick ass!

[tacobell444]

its a pretty good bass all in all, but it doesn't match up to music man stingrays

[sammy the punk]

ok guys whats with all the bass hatred going on... there are to many guitarists in the world most of them crap cos they have the musical talent of a goldfish they play to pick up girls.. well all i say to you guys is get a life.. a good bassist is essential to any rock band and a good bassist is hard to come across... and btw i do know what i am on about i played guitar for 2 years and still occasionally pick up my telecaster.. but i now play bass and you get far more respect from musicians for being a decent bassist than a decent guitarist.. it is hard to be good on bass.. easy to pick up and play but hard to be good... listen to flea he does more complicated stuff than your average guitarist (listen to blood sugar sex magic if you don't believe me)and to do that stuff his fingers have to move about 3 times as fast as a guitarists cos the bass neck is huge.. you stick your average guitarist on bass ands they would suck ass..

[xxXKoRnXxx]

sammy the punk wrote:

ok guys whats with all the bass hatred going on... there are to many guitarists in the world most of them crap cos they have the musical talent of a goldfish they play to pick up girls.. well all i say to you guys is get a life.. a good bassist is essential to any rock band and a good bassist is hard to come across... and btw i do know what i am on about i played guitar for 2 years and still occasionally pick up my telecaster.. but i now play bass and you get far more respect from musicians for being a decent bassist than a decent guitarist.. it is hard to be good on bass.. easy to pick up and play but hard to be good... listen to flea he does more complicated stuff than your average guitarist (listen to blood sugar sex magic if you don't believe me)and to do that stuff his fingers have to move about 3 times as fast as a guitarists cos the bass neck is huge.. you stick your average guitarist on bass ands they would suck ass..

DUDE I AGREE! respect*

[not_dead_enough]

CptKemzik wrote:

Plus going to the store has the added advantage of trying out the basses so you can get a feel of what you like.

Obviously you're not left-handed...

[ponis]

chilibassist wrote:

uh, you dont need to be in a rock band. how bout funk, blues, acoustic, or jazz?

[ponis]

chilibassist wrote:

uh, you dont need to be in a rock band. how bout funk, blues, acoustic, or jazz?

Yeah blues rocks!!!

[ponis]

This bass is so awsome im buying one as soon as possible.

[ich-komme]

Quintin wrote:

even if you suck at guitar chicks will still pick you up...just play one note and they will ripe there cloths off for you im dead serious

Good thought. I wish it were true.
I do like j-basses, but I really don't have money for one at the minute. I'm saving to get one of these when I replace my Yamaha.

[Anjohl]

I have played guitar for almost 15 years, and I am now researching buying my first electric bass. The bass has a lot going for it that the guitar doens't, a bass is NOT a guitar with two less strings that only plays root notes of chords the guitar is playing.

There is a lot more to bass guitar, for instance, the bass is a melding of rythem and melody, because it ties in tight with the drums. Don't knock the bass, without it, no guitar sounds as good.

[Anjohl]

There is one of these at my local store for around $500, would you guys reccomend it as a first bass, but one that will last a while? I have played guitar for 14 years, and I am 28 years old. I have recently become interested in electric bass guitar.

[thewhorock]

pie_man_25 wrote:

nikk axx wrote:

Oh and to end the discussion on Steve Harris or Cliff Burton...the answer is Jaco Pastorious....If you haven't heard of him then you both have a lot to learn.

all of you guys are wrong it's definitely John Entwhistle

Chris Squire
/debate

[ravenouscabbage]

sick!! so this'll play pretty much anything?

[capt.groove]

My review (capt.groove), is for the NEW American Standard bass for 2008, please dont get confused. Keep it groovy

[acoustielectric]

Yes, basses are important. Don't say guitars are overrated. Whats overrated is singing. Either you are born with it or not. If you are it's so easy. Freakin american idol...