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Average Price: $829

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Introducing the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass, your ticket to a world of unmistakable Fender tone and sleek design. This exceptional instrument is a fusion of classic style and modern features, offering you an unmatched playing experience. Its unique black-on-black aesthetic is sure to turn heads, but it's the sound and playability that will keep you coming back for more.

This Aerodyne Jazz Bass stands out from the crowd with its unique dual pickup configuration. The forward position houses a split-coil Precision pickup, renowned for its robust and thunderous low-end, making it a staple in the rock scene for decades. At the bridge, you'll find a single-coil Jazz pickup, known for delivering punchy mids and crisp highs. These two pickups, coupled with dual volume and tone knobs, enable you to dial in a wide array of sounds and cover any genre with ease.

The playability of this bass is where the real magic happens. The instrument features a thin C-profile neck, inviting swift and smooth navigation across the fretboard. The combination of a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard offers the classic Fender feel, while the comfortable back contour perfectly centers the bass on your torso, enhancing your playing comfort.

Key Features:

  • Basswood body with a unique carved top and radius
  • Sleek black finish with cream binding on top of body
  • Smoked chrome bridge, tuning machines, and skirted control knobs
  • Top-mounted Strat input jack
  • Dual pickup configuration with split single-coil Precision pickup and single-coil Jazz pickup
  • Thin C-profile neck for smooth navigation
  • Maple neck and rosewood fingerboard for the classic Fender feel
  • Comfortable back contour for enhanced playing comfort.

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model AJB Aerodyne Jazz Bass
Finish Black, Dolphin Gray, Gun Metal Blue, Old Candy Apple Red, Olympic White
Year 2003 - 2017
Made In Japan
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape J-Style
Color Family Black, Blue, Grey, Red, White
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Frets Medium Jumbo
Model Family Fender Jazz Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Aerodyne

FAQs

What makes the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass unique compared to other Jazz Basses?

The Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass features a sleek, lightweight body with contoured edges and a unique pickup configuration, offering a modern aesthetic and versatile sound. Its passive pickups and rosewood fretboard provide a classic tone with a contemporary look.

Is the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and lightweight body, making it easier to play for extended periods. Its versatile sound also allows new players to explore various musical styles.

What kind of pickups does the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass have?

The Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass is equipped with passive split-coil and single-coil pickups, offering a blend of deep, punchy tones and bright, articulate sounds, suitable for a wide range of music genres.

How does the neck profile of the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass affect playability?

The neck of the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass is designed for comfort and speed, featuring a smooth maple neck with a rosewood fretboard and medium jumbo frets, allowing for easy playability and quick transitions across the fretboard.

Does the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass have an active preamp?

No, the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass does not have an active preamp. It utilizes passive pickups, which provide a traditional bass tone without the need for battery power.

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass Guitar

Video thumbnail for Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass Guitar by Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass Guitar

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Dave's World of Fun Stuff

Video thumbnail for Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC by Empire Music

Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC

Empire Music

Empire Music

Video thumbnail for A Midrange Punch On The Nose! Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass Review by Which Bass

A Midrange Punch On The Nose! Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass Review

Which Bass

Which Bass

Video thumbnail for How I UPGRADED My Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass | ESSENTIAL MODS by Justin Panariello

How I UPGRADED My Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass | ESSENTIAL MODS

Justin Panariello

Justin Panariello

Video thumbnail for Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass AJB DEMO by Bassberserk

Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass AJB DEMO

Bassberserk

Bassberserk

Video thumbnail for Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass - Japanese Excellence by Paul Green

Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass - Japanese Excellence

Paul Green

Paul Green

Video thumbnail for Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass! by Alan Sams Music

Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass!

Alan Sams Music

Alan Sams Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique P/J pickup combination offers diverse tonal options

  • Lightweight design makes it comfortable for long playing sessions

  • Sleek, stunning aesthetics with black finish and matching headstock

  • Smooth, fast neck with a comfortable 7.25" radius fingerboard

  • Excellent craftsmanship, comparable to higher-end basses

  • Versatile sound suitable for various music genres

  • Great sustain, especially with upgraded bridges

  • High-quality fretwork provides smooth playability

  • Holds tuning well, even during extended gigs

  • Fender's Japanese manufacturing ensures reliability and build quality

CONS

  • Stock bridge and pickups often deemed inadequate, requiring upgrades

  • Noisy bridge pickup in some models

  • Black finish shows fingerprints and smudges easily

  • Replacement parts in matching smoked chrome are hard to find

  • Some users find it slightly heavier than expected

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Some owners report discomfort with the Aerodyne's angular body shape, leading to using wristbands for improved comfort during extended playing sessions.

    Source
  • The basswood body is noted for being easily dinged, requiring careful handling to maintain its appearance.

    Source
  • Despite minor design grievances, long-term owners often return to the Aerodyne after trying other basses, highlighting its enduring appeal.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Aerodyne's thin neck is likened to that of Ibanez basses, appealing to players who prefer a faster neck profile.

    Source
  • Owners frequently mention its versatility and preference as a primary instrument, especially for extended playing sessions.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A user replaced the stock bridge with a Badass III bridge for improved comfort, addressing issues with protruding screws on the original Fender bridge.

    Source
  • Bartolini pickups have been highlighted as a preferred upgrade for smoother sound, enhancing the Aerodyne's tonal capabilities according to multiple users.

    Source
  • Some users have replaced stock P/J pickups with Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounders for enhanced sound quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Aerodyne series is out of production, causing used market prices to increase, with models like the Crimson Transparent Precision P/J becoming rare and sought after.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some Aerodyne models are reported to be headstock heavy due to their smaller body size, affecting the instrument's balance during play.

    Source
  • Many owners find the body edges sharp, which can be uncomfortable on the forearm compared to traditional Jazz basses.

    Source
  • The bridge design can cause discomfort for those who pick near the saddles due to sharp screws, leading some owners to adjust their playing style or consider upgrades.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The matching headstock is a standout aesthetic feature that appeals to many, although its glossy finish is prone to fingerprints, requiring regular maintenance.

    Source
  • The Aerodyne's lightweight basswood body is praised for reducing strain, though it's heavier than some Ibanez SR models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The D'Addario ECB82 Chrome flatwounds are recommended for less twang on higher frets, though some users still find the D/G strings overly jangly.

    Source
  • The bass is prone to being a fingerprint magnet, requiring frequent cleaning with microfiber towels.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to other Fender models, the Aerodyne's P pickup doesn’t fully replicate a traditional P Bass sound, offering a unique tone that some users prefer for specific songs.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Aerodyne Jazz Bass Review: This bass, by far, is the best I've played yet. | Fender | Bass Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass scores high marks for its versatile sound, sleek aesthetics, and exceptional build quality. It adeptly handles a range of tones, from growling low ends to smooth, mellow vibes. The bass is lauded for its reliability during live performances, requiring minimal tuning and offering durable construction. While the reviewer notes a slight lack of punch from the bridge pickup, this doesn't detract significantly from an otherwise superb experience. With recommendations for those seeking a versatile and stylish bass, the Aerodyne Jazz Bass is a top choice, albeit with a minor suggestion to consider pickup upgrades for extra 'umph.'

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 12 Reviews and 49 Ratings

5 star
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kyrferg

10/10

This is the most amazing bass. Lightweight, beautiful and incredibly versatile. Japanese Fender craftsmanship is great. The body sculpting is smooth and sexy.

mutant23

JAPAN NON EXPORT VERSION 2011 PJ PICKUPS

JAPAN NON EXPORT VERSION 2011 PJ PICKUPS

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Duff McKagan uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Duff McKagan

Singer, Guitarist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via YouTube

Duff's Tech (McBob) shows his Fender Aerodyne in this video Duff is seen playing the Aerodyne in this video.

See how Frank Bello uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Frank Bello

Bassist

Anthrax

...
Verified via Photo

Frank Bello, bassist for Anthrax, has used the Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass, notably featuring a scratched "R.I.P. Dimebag" tribute. This customization was a personal homage made the night Dimebag Darrell passed away. The bass was later honored by Fender with a signature model. This connection is highlighted in a post by bassguitarhub on Instagram.

See how Verdine White uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Verdine White

Bassist, Composer

Earth, Wind & Fire

...
Verified via Verdinewhite

On the official website of Verdine White, he uses a Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass during a gig for the Columbia College in Chicago. According to the Official Website of the Columbia College in Chicago (http://events.colum.edu/event/qa_with_verdine_white_of_earth_wind_fire#.VkHEAIRaJGg) the gig happened during a Q+A session on : Friday, SEPTEMBER 20, 2013 AT 11:00AM TO 1:00PM.

See how Walter Gervers uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Walter Gervers

Bassist, Composer

Foals

...
Verified via YouTube

This bass was mainly used during the Antidotes phase, you can see it clearly at 00:18-00:19 or in quite few Foals live performances in 2008

Another proof is the Balloons music video or this performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u38ShgPC9Xw

See how Ash Kabosu uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Ash Kabosu

Bassist

Lovejoy

...
Verified via YouTube

Ash can be seen using the Aerodyne Jazz Bass at 0:11 and more clearly at 0:17

See how Lyn-Z Way uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Lyn-Z Way

Bassist

Mindless Self Indulgence

...
Verified via Tumblr

in this interview, Lyn-Z says that she has "fallen in love with her with Fender Aerodyne" but is not attached to any sort of amp/similar gear

See how Curtis Ward uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Curtis Ward

Guitarist

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via Photo

Curtis Ward is seen playing a Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass in a live performance, as evidenced by the image available on Equipboard.

See how Gareth McGrillen uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Gareth McGrillen

Bassist, Music Producer

Pendulum

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Pendulum - Tarantula @ Glastonbury 2009 (Longer Version)" by CGF, Gareth McGrillen can be seen performing with Pendulum and playing a black Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass.

See how Jeph Howard uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Jeph Howard

Bassist

The Used

...
Verified via Photo

Jeph Howard used a Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass during the touring cycle for the album "Lies for the Liars," as seen in a photograph on Wikimedia.

See how Jason Black uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Jason Black

Bassist, Composer

Hot Water Music

...
Verified

In live photos and a specific article photo from the early 2000s, Jason Black is seen using a Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass, which he used briefly after the G&L ASAT and before returning to the Stingray. Upon close inspection, it appears that he swapped the pickups for Seymour Duncans.

See how Cory Murchy uses Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Cory Murchy

Bassist

Minus the Bear

...
Verified via Premierguitar

"I was having some serious back problems, and I heard that it was actually a little bit lighter, and it is considerably. So I really just bought it because of health reasons, and it turns out that it plays like a dream and sounds awesome."

W

William Boyd

Bassist

Evanescence

...
Verified via Photo

On this photo, William Boyd is playing his Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass. He used it while touring with Evanescence

Album Usage

The Fender Aerodyne 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 Aerodyne Jazz Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
bigebassrva

bigebassrva

Gear IQ 155

aero_naut

aero_naut

Gear IQ 89

amacchi

amacchi

Gear IQ 100

harley_addams

harley_addams

Gear IQ 125

2 alternative and related items for Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass, curated by the Equipboard community.

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Stock strings are meh, but with Roto Steels you fix that.

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similar sound high-end alternative limited edition

Well, the higher up the scale, the more expensive it gets, and the materials are of better quality. I'm happy with my Aerodyne, but I'd love to get a Precision of the highest quality!

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

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    jakc

    Gear IQ 51