Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,549
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "1966 Fender Jazz bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* 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
Transport yourself back to the golden age of electric bass with the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass. This iconic instrument, from the CBS era, captures a pivotal moment in music history, offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern playability. Known for its signature dual single-coil pickups, the Jazz Bass produces a smooth, articulate tone that's versatile enough to traverse any genre, from jazz to rock and soul. The 1966 model introduced significant design upgrades, including elegant fretboard binding and striking block inlays, adding both aesthetic appeal and durability to this classic instrument.
Crafted with precision, the slim neck profile of the Jazz Bass provides unparalleled comfort and speed, making it a favorite among professional bassists. The offset waist body not only delivers ergonomic excellence but also contributes to its distinct visual allure. While its tone and playability speak volumes, the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass is equally celebrated for its collectability, standing as a testament to Fender's enduring legacy in musical innovation.
For the discerning bassist seeking a piece of history with unmatched sound quality, this Jazz Bass promises to elevate your musical journey with its timeless design and exceptional performance.
Key Features:
- Dual single-coil pickups for a versatile tonal range
- Slim neck profile for comfortable playability
- Fretboard binding and block inlays introduced in 1966
- Offset waist body design for ergonomic comfort
- Highly collectible vintage CBS-era model
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | Jazz Bass |
| Finish | Black, Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Charcoal Frost Metallic, Daphne Blue, Fiesta Red, Lake Placid Blue, Olympic White, Shoreline Gold, Sonic Blue, Sunburst |
| Year | 1965 - 1969 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 4-String Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Material | Alder, Ash |
| Body Shape | J-Style |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Grey, Red, White, Yellow |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Fender Jazz Bass |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender Vintage CBS Era |
FAQs
-
What is the neck profile like on the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass?
-
The 1966 Fender Jazz Bass features a slim neck profile, known for its fast playability and comfort, making it ideal for bassists who prefer a thinner neck for quick movements across the fretboard.
-
What kind of tones can I expect from the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass pickups?
-
The 1966 Fender Jazz Bass offers a classic, warm tone with a pronounced midrange and clear highs, making it versatile for various music styles, from jazz and blues to rock and funk.
-
Is the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass suitable for beginners?
-
While the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass is an iconic instrument with a rich history, its vintage status and potential cost may make it more suitable for experienced players or collectors rather than beginners.
-
What body materials are used in the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass?
-
The 1966 Fender Jazz Bass typically features a body made from alder or ash, both of which contribute to its resonant tone and sustain.
-
Does the 1966 Fender Jazz Bass have active or passive pickups?
-
The 1966 Fender Jazz Bass is equipped with passive pickups, offering a traditional and organic bass sound without the need for a battery-powered preamp.
Videos
Jonathan Grooms
1966 Fender Jazz Bass demonstration/review by Jona
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1966 Fender Jazz bass.
Build quality
-
The bass lacks nib ends on the binding, which some owners feel cheapens the production quality compared to similar models like the American Original '70s Jazz Bass.
Source -
The cases for these basses are now Far Eastern equivalents instead of the previously used G&G ones, which some owners preferred.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The model boasts a matching headstock and bound neck, details that have received positive attention from enthusiasts for their aesthetic appeal.
Source -
The bass includes a "tug bar" below the strings, initially intended for thumb playing, providing a unique historical touch to playing style options.
Source -
The bass's aesthetic features such as matching headstock, block inlays, and lollipop tuners receive high praise for their vintage appeal and visual coherence.
Source
User experience
Value and pricing
Mods and upgrades
-
Owners frequently swap stock tuners for '70s style or lollipop tuners, though opinions on aesthetics vary.
Source -
Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounders are a common pickup replacement for a consistent, powerful tone across multiple basses.
Source -
The bass pairs well with flatwound strings, such as TI flats, which some owners find perfect for achieving a vintage tone reminiscent of bands like Khruangbin.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1966 Fender Jazz bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Fender Electric Basses
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Electric Basses
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
shiba_inu_jediGear IQ 20008
-