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Description

Step back in time and experience the iconic sound of the mid-60s with the Fender '65 Vintage Jazz Bass. This electric bass guitar is a faithful recreation of the instrument that defined a generation of music, beloved by jazz, rock, and funk musicians alike. Its dual single-coil pickups deliver a rich, full-bodied tone that captures the essence of the original design, making it an essential piece for any serious bassist looking to add a touch of classic flair to their collection.

The '65 Vintage Jazz Bass features a sleek offset body, providing not only a visually appealing silhouette but also exceptional playability. With a smooth C-shaped neck and vintage-style frets, this bass offers a comfortable grip and effortless movement across its fretboard. This model also incorporates period-correct hardware, from the vintage-style tuners to the 4-saddle bridge, ensuring both performance and authenticity in every detail.

Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Fender '65 Vintage Jazz Bass delivers the punchy, articulate sound that has kept it a staple in the music world for decades. Its dynamic range and tonal versatility make it a perfect fit for any genre, from smooth jazz lines to driving rock riffs.

Key Features:

  • Faithful recreation of the mid-60s Jazz Bass design
  • Dual single-coil pickups for classic tone
  • C-shaped neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Vintage-style hardware and frets for an authentic feel
  • Offset body design for visual appeal and balanced playability
  • Suitable for a wide range of musical genres

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender '65 Vintage Jazz Bass.

Build quality

  • The original high-gloss finish and hardware, including the ashtray and pickup cover, are in excellent condition, reflecting meticulous care over decades.

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Setup and maintenance

  • It's suggested to remove the bridge cover for easier string changes, as it can obscure access.

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  • Avoiding the 3-bolt neck design is advised due to its potential stability issues.

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Mods and upgrades

  • There's a recommendation to restring with flatwounds for a vintage tone, avoiding modifications to preserve originality.

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  • For a modern alternative, the Lakland Darryl Jones model offers a similar sound and feel to a '74 Jazz Bass with improved features.

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Value and pricing

  • A 1965 Fender Jazz Bass in original condition can be valued in the tens of thousands, highlighting its significance as both an instrument and collectible.

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  • Fender Custom Shop models are recommended as a more affordable option than vintage, often priced below $4,000, while maintaining high quality.

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  • Vintage instrument prices may be subject to market corrections due to generational shifts in musical interest and economic conditions.

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Use cases and applications

  • Due to its vintage status, it's suggested to use a secondary bass for daily practice to preserve the Jazz Bass's condition.

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  • The '65 Jazz Bass is best appreciated at high volumes for its characteristic slight distortion, reminiscent of Jaco Pastorius's live performances.

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User experience

  • Owners report that the emotional and historical value of inherited vintage instruments can outweigh monetary considerations, emphasizing sentimental attachment.

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  • Some owners find the vintage '65 Jazz Bass neck too thin, leading to frequent missed notes during play, especially on the G string.

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Comparisons

  • Owners suggest Japanese Fender Jazz basses from the 90s for superior build quality, comparable to late '60s models, without the hefty price tag.

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  • The Sadowsky NYC is noted to offer a Jazz feel and functionality but with an active setup, potentially providing a more versatile sound compared to a vintage '65 Jazz Bass.

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Features and functionality

  • A '72 Jazz Bass is noted for its bridge pickup spacing closer to the bridge, providing more bite compared to '60s models.

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  • Vintage '65 Jazz Bass pickups require a high volume to achieve their iconic sound, which may not be ideal for players with tinnitus.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bruce Kulick uses Fender '65 Vintage Jazz Bass

Bruce Kulick

Guitarist

Kiss

...
Verified via YouTube

Here you can see Bruce Kulick playing Kiss song "Jungle" on vintage Fender '65 Jazz Bass with a MXR Phasor pedal (originally used a similar bass by ESP).

Album Usage

The Fender '65 Vintage Jazz Bass 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.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender '65 Vintage Jazz Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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