Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $12,995

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Fender Precision Bass (1952) is not just a musical instrument; it's a legacy. As the pioneer of solid body bass guitars, this iconic model laid the foundation for electric basses as we know them. Originally designed to complement the Telecaster, the Precision Bass offers unmatched tonal precision and clarity that has captivated musicians for decades. With its robust slab ash body and flat-pole single coil pickup, this bass delivers a rich, punchy sound that cuts through any mix. The Telecaster-style headstock is a nod to its roots, offering a vintage aesthetic that appeals to both collectors and players alike. Whether you're grooving in a studio or jamming on stage, the Fender Precision Bass stands as a testament to craftsmanship and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Solid slab ash body
  • Flat-pole single coil pickup for clear, punchy sound
  • Telecaster-style headstock
  • Revolutionary design, the first solid body bass guitar
  • Celebrated by bass legends such as Geezer Butler, Roger Waters, and Sting

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Precision Bass
Finish Blonde
Year 1951 - 1953
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Ash
Body Shape P-Style
Color Family Yellow
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Precision Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Vintage Pre-CBS Era

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the body of the 1952 Fender Precision Bass?

The body of the 1952 Fender Precision Bass is made from ash, which contributes to its bright and resonant tone, characteristic of early Fender basses.

What is the neck material and fretboard material of the 1952 Fender Precision Bass?

Both the neck and fretboard of the 1952 Fender Precision Bass are made from maple, offering a smooth playing experience and a snappy, articulate sound.

How many strings does the 1952 Fender Precision Bass have?

The 1952 Fender Precision Bass is a 4-string bass guitar, which is standard for most traditional bass playing styles.

What type of pickups does the 1952 Fender Precision Bass feature?

The 1952 Fender Precision Bass is equipped with passive pickups, known for delivering a warm, vintage tone without the need for active electronics.

Is the 1952 Fender Precision Bass suitable for all music genres?

Yes, the Fender Precision Bass is renowned for its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of genres from rock and metal to jazz and folk. Its classic design and sound have made it a staple in various musical styles.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

1952 Fender Precision Bass | CME Vintage Gear | Marc Najjar

Video thumbnail for 1952 Fender Precision Bass | CME Vintage Gear | Marc Najjar by Chicago Music Exchange

1952 Fender Precision Bass | CME Vintage Gear | Marc Najjar

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for 1952 Fender Precision Bass Teen Town bass cover by Per Ivar Stubbrud

1952 Fender Precision Bass Teen Town bass cover

Per Ivar Stubbrud

Per Ivar Stubbrud

Video thumbnail for 1952 Fender Precision bass with DR Flatwounds by Jonathan Grooms

1952 Fender Precision bass with DR Flatwounds

Jonathan Grooms

Jonathan Grooms

Video thumbnail for Mandolin Brothers: Fender (1952) Precision Bass by Mandolin629

Mandolin Brothers: Fender (1952) Precision Bass

Mandolin629

Mandolin629

Video thumbnail for IS THIS THE BEST BASS OF ALL TIME? - 1952 FENDER PRECISION BASS - Andy's Vintage Guitars by ANDY'S VINTAGE GUITARS

IS THIS THE BEST BASS OF ALL TIME? - 1952 FENDER PRECISION BASS - Andy's Vintage Guitars

ANDY'S VINTAGE GUITARS

ANDY'S VINTAGE GUITARS

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Precision Bass (1952).

Mods and upgrades

  • Restoration after PJ mod involved using modern replacement parts, suggesting potential impacts on originality and historic value.

    Source

Comparisons

  • 1952 model features a Tele-style headstock, often preferred by enthusiasts over larger 60s designs for aesthetic reasons.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Dealers advise realistic pricing for modded instruments, as original condition examples sell significantly higher.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • 1952 was the last year for the slab body shape; subsequent models introduced comfort contours and different color options.

    Source

Critic Reviews

1952 Fender Precision Bass - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Michael League uses Fender Precision Bass (1952)

Michael League

Bassist, Music Producer

Snarky Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

1952 Fender Precision Bass Butterscotch: FORQ - Lymaks

See how Nick Movshon uses Fender Precision Bass (1952)

Nick Movshon

Bassist, Drummer

El Michels Affair

...
Verified via YouTube

In the live performance video titled "Marcus King - Blood on the Tracks (Live From Easy Sound)" on YouTube, Nick Movshon is observed playing a natural 1952-3 Fender Precision Bass. This performance is published by MarcusKingBandVEVO under American Recordings and Republic Records.

See how Keith Ferguson uses Fender Precision Bass (1952)

Keith Ferguson

Bassist

The Fabulous Thunderbirds

...
Verified via AustinChronicle

Keith Ferguson is known for playing a butterscotch 1952 Fender Precision Bass. In the article "Beautiful Loser" from the Austin Chronicle, it is noted that Ferguson mentioned, "One guy bought my '52 Fender Precision, took really good care of it."

Album Usage

The Fender Precision Bass (1952) has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Fender Electric Basses

Fender Bass VI

$874.99 - $2,759.84

# 40

Rank

John Frusciante Wes Borland David Gilmour
102 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    dbarzon
    dbarzon

    Gear IQ 303