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Average Price: $900

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$400

$1001+

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Description

In the world of bass guitars, the Fender American Standard Precision Bass stands as a paragon of tradition and innovation. Rooted in a legacy that began in 1951, this iconic instrument continues to define the soundscape of modern music. The sleek, contoured body offers unparalleled comfort, while the Fender Custom Shop ‘60s split single-coil pickup ensures that each note resonates with clarity and depth. Whether you're laying down the groove in a jazz ensemble or driving the rhythm in a rock band, the Precision Bass adapts seamlessly to your style.

The modern C-shaped neck profile enhances playability, allowing for smooth transitions across the fretboard, making it perfect for both seasoned players and those just starting their musical journey. With a reputation for durability and a timeless design, the Fender American Standard Precision Bass is more than an instrument; it's a reliable partner in your creative expression. Its precision engineering and quality craftsmanship make it an indispensable tool for musicians who demand excellence.

Key Features:

  • Classic Precision Bass body with modern enhancements
  • Fender Custom Shop ‘60s split single-coil pickup
  • Modern C-shaped neck profile for improved playability
  • High-quality craftsmanship and durable construction
  • Versatile sound suitable for various musical genres

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model American Standard Precision Bass
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Black, Blizzard Pearl, Candy Cola, Charcoal Frost Metallic, Jade Pearl Metallic, Mystic Blue, Mystic Red, Olympic White
Year 2008 - 2016
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Alder
Body Shape P-Style
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Green, Grey, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Frets Medium Jumbo
Model Family Fender Precision Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender American Standard
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Fender American Standard Precision Bass have?

The Fender American Standard Precision Bass is equipped with passive split-coil pickups, known for delivering the classic, punchy P-Bass tone suitable for a wide range of music genres.

Is the Fender American Standard Precision Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender American Standard Precision Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and versatile sound, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels.

What materials are used in the construction of the Fender American Standard Precision Bass?

The body of the Fender American Standard Precision Bass is made from alder, while the neck is crafted from maple. The fretboard is available in either maple or rosewood, contributing to its iconic tone and playability.

How does the neck profile of the Fender American Standard Precision Bass affect playability?

The neck profile of the Fender American Standard Precision Bass is designed to provide a comfortable grip, enhancing playability and making it easier to perform both fast runs and complex fingerings.

What are the finish options available for the Fender American Standard Precision Bass?

The Fender American Standard Precision Bass is available in several finish options, including 3-Color Sunburst, Black, Blizzard Pearl, Candy Cola, Charcoal Frost Metallic, Jade Pearl Metallic, Mystic Blue, Mystic Red, and Olympic White.

Jules Guitar

Jules Guitar

Jazz Bass vs Precision Bass

Video thumbnail for Jazz Bass vs Precision Bass by Jules Guitar

Jazz Bass vs Precision Bass

Jules Guitar

Jules Guitar

Video thumbnail for Fender American Standard Precision Bass Demo by Reverb

Fender American Standard Precision Bass Demo

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for American Standard Precision® Bass Demo | Fender by Fender

American Standard Precision® Bass Demo | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for USA or US-NAY?! | Fender American Standard Precision Bass [Review/Demo] by Jonny Dibble

USA or US-NAY?! | Fender American Standard Precision Bass [Review/Demo]

Jonny Dibble

Jonny Dibble

Video thumbnail for McGuire Music Demos the Fender American Standard Precision Bass by McGuireMusicandSound

McGuire Music Demos the Fender American Standard Precision Bass

McGuireMusicandSound

McGuireMusicandSound

Video thumbnail for Fender American Standard Precision Bass Demo by Relics By DG

Fender American Standard Precision Bass Demo

Relics By DG

Relics By DG

Video thumbnail for Fender American Standard Precision Bass by guitarsib

Fender American Standard Precision Bass

guitarsib

guitarsib

Video thumbnail for Fender American Standard Precision Bass by napervillemusic

Fender American Standard Precision Bass

napervillemusic

napervillemusic

Reviews

PROS

  • Comfortable neck feels great even for players transitioning from other styles

  • High-mass bridge with adjustable string spacing offers customization

  • Classic vintage tone that works well for a range of music styles

  • Versatile tone with a wide sweep, from thump to growl

  • Excellent balance and fit, akin to high-end craftsmanship

  • Reliable tuning stability with posiflex graphite support rods

  • Perfect for live gigs and studio sessions with consistent sound quality

  • Customizable pickup options for unique tonal characteristics

  • Classic design and finish with a modern touch

  • Durable and well-built, ideal for touring musicians

CONS

  • Heavier than some other models, potentially tiring for long gigs

  • Lacks easy access heel for high fret playing

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • Some players prefer the slimmer neck of the American Standard over the chunkier Professional II, though the Ultra Precision necks are noted for being exceptionally slim.

    Source
  • American Standards from 2008 onwards have different stock pickups than earlier models, offering subtle variations in the classic P bass tone.

    Source
  • The Fender Player Series P-bass is perceived as sturdier and better sounding than the Squier Classic Vibe, with improved electronics and overall build quality.

    Source
  • Users find it hard to distinguish between Squier and MIM Fenders in blind tests, suggesting setup and finishing narrow perceived quality gaps.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner highlighted the exceptional neck stability compared to other bases, including a quarter sawn Fender custom shop model.

    Source
  • Despite skill level concerns, owning an instrument that inspires frequent play can accelerate skill development.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The current asking price is considered high by some, as similar models were cheaper in the past, reflecting the recent surge in the used market.

    Source
  • It's observed that instruments generally retain their value well if kept in good condition, unlike heavily modified or damaged gear.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The split P pickups, both old and new, are inherently hum-cancelling by design, ensuring reduced noise regardless of model year.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners often replace stock pickups for higher output and midrange-focused options, though this is not necessary to achieve a classic P bass tone.

    Source
  • It's suggested to replace the stock nut on MIM Fenders for better quality, particularly when not using Fender strings.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users prefer maple fingerboards over Pau Ferro on MIM Fenders, citing the latter feels dry and uncomfortable, though conditioning can improve its feel.

    Source
  • There's criticism of Fender's use of Pau Ferro for its dry, chalky feel, though conditioning may enhance its texture over time.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: 2012 Fender American Standard Precision Bass Review

rexbass.com

The 2012 Fender American Standard Precision Bass offers solid incremental improvements to a classic design. With a Custom Shop ‘60s pickup, a high-mass vintage bridge, and lighter tuners, it retains the iconic look and sound of a P-Bass. While the enhancements may not dramatically alter tone or sustain compared to older models, the build quality and playability remain top-notch. If the new color isn't a must-have, you might find better deals on previous models. Overall, it's a reliable choice for bass enthusiasts seeking subtle yet effective upgrades.

positive

Bass Guitar Adventures: Review: Fender American Standard Precision Bass vs. G&L LB-100, SB1

bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com

The Fender American Standard Precision Bass stands out with its classic P-Bass sound, smooth playability, and lightweight alder body. Despite a common A string rattle issue, resolved with a simple fix, it offers a satisfying playing experience. While Fender falls short in finish variety and neck pocket precision compared to G&L, its modernized tuning keys enhance balance. The neck pocket gaps, though present, don't affect performance. Fender's case quality, however, disappoints with its construction flaws, though customer service promptly addresses these. Overall, Fender delivers a reliable, iconic bass that holds its own against G&L's offerings.

positive
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 13 Reviews and 59 Ratings

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cagatay_cetin

The Classic That Always Delivers

The Fender American Standard Precision Bass is a reliable classic with a punchy, warm tone that suits almost any genre. Its solid build and simplicity, one pickup, one volume, one tone, make it incredibly versatile and easy to play. It doesn’t try to be flashy, but its timeless performance is what keeps it a top choice for bassists worldwide.

martin_hofmann

Great pleasure to play

I always wanted to have this bass in this finish. It plays great, sounds a little different from the maple neck Precisions: more brightness, a little less mids, but solid fundament. Very good tuning machines and easy access to the trussrod

jason_jump

This is my "desert island" bass.

This bass has it all: the tone, the feel, the look, and it sits well in the mix. There's a reason why the P-Bass has been #1 for over 70 years--it just rocks!

Preferred Settings + Usage:

I play with the volume pot at 100% and the tone pot at around 60-70%.

From Gear Setup
brian_ramirez

Classic and comfortable

My P bass has a Jazz bass neck. Even thoughI only use it in the studio and rehearsals, I still love it!

bennohoundsuk

what a tone!

I have wanted one of these for years and now I finally own one I will not play anything else! I listen to a lot of punk music and the American Standard Precision bass has an amazing tone the bass and treble and together with the Sansamp forget about it! never been so satisfied with a tone!

Roles:
Genres:
joel_ginsberg

It's a classic.

I do a lot of session work and reach for this bass if the track needs that P-Bass punch & warmth.

lfo_music

Cool!!

M

What could be more classic?

What could be more classic than flatwounds on a P-Bass through an Ampeg? All the thump an fundamental to make your band sound better, and isn't that why we play the bass in the first place?

stickster

With a twist.

My 2008 American Standard has a set of Fender Custom Shop 1962 spec pickups. One of the best sounding instruments I own. It only does one trick, but it's a GREAT one.

boris_the_animal

Fantastic Workhorse

This is my main player and I've had it since 2012.

clinton_summers

P Basses have such a classic sound.

Beautiful sound. P Basses get such a classic sound that shouldnt be messed with.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nestor Chumak uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Nestor Chumak

Singer, Bassist

Pup

...
Verified via Photo

2nd pic for @deebeehobbs 1998 Fender Precision American Standard

See how Bob Rock uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Bob Rock

Bassist, Music Producer

Metallica

...
Verified via Google

Bob Rock can be seen using a Fender American Standard Precision Bass while performing Ramones songs with Metallica at Kimo's, as shown in the image available on Google.

See how Kelen Capener uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Kelen Capener

Bassist

The Story So Far

...
Verified via Photo

Here, Capener can be seen plating a Fender American Standard Precision bass in Black with a black pick guard and maple fretboard.

See how Trevor Bolder uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Trevor Bolder

Bassist

Uriah Heep

...
Verified via Photo

Bolder can be seen in this photo with a Fender Precision Bass 3-Tone Sunburst.

See how Andra Ramadhan uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Andra Ramadhan

Guitarist

Dewa 19

...
Verified via brilio.net

Found in his house alongside his gear collection

See how Amos Heller uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Amos Heller

Bassist

The Agency

...
Verified via Seymourduncan

Mentioned in this August 4, 2013 Seymour Duncan blog interview.

Tell me about your current tour set up?

I run three different signals, all direct. Signal #1 is a direct line off of my Shure wireless. Line #2 is the mighty Avalon U5. Line #3 runs through the pedalboard, which currently features a Radial distortion and an old purple Ibanez chorus (for the song “Holy Ground”) and into an active Radial DI. I have an Xotic Effects RC Bass Boost that stays on all night. I’m proud to be endorsed by Fender bass guitars. The current arsenal is a ’62 Reissue Precision, an American Standard Precision with the Seymour Duncan SMB-5A humbucker pickup added in the bridge position, a Gretsch Broadkaster, A Fender Cabronita (a new, precision-style single pickup bass) and a ’71 Orlando. I use Fender nickel bass strings.

See how Kevin Ray uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Kevin Ray

Bassist

Walk the Moon

...
Verified via TalkBass.com

*"So, summer 2015 tour rig would have been: - 2 almost identical Fender P/Js. One was a store bought model where nothing changed. American Standard with a super thin J neck (me thinks those are the 60s style, but I could be wrong). The other is my Fender master custom P with the Marcus Miller neck. Had a J bridge pickup added. No fancy electronics. Original Badass bridge added. The big deal with that one was the silver flake finish. Took more than a year to wait for the paint job. Nothing is tuned down for good, just a low Eb for some of the songs that need it. - Delay is just an MXR Carbon Copy. I try new stuff all the time and that one just feels so good to manipulate by hand. - Shut Up and Dance fuzz is actually just an old Ibanez bass Tube Screamer. I throw in a JHS 4-Wheeler if it needs more definition. Nowadays, I use an Aguilar Agro or the Brimstone crossover distortion (Best distortion on the market) - The Rick... OH the rick. I miss her. She's SUPER rare. factory turquoise, built in 2001. I don't have the heart to subject her to the road anymore. Maybe in the future I will bring her out cuz gear heads always want to chat about it after the show."

See how John Hassall uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

John Hassall

Bassist

The Libertines

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo from a Libertines concert John is seen playing a Fender American Standard P Bass in sunburst finish

See how Eirik Glambek Bøe uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Eirik Glambek Bøe

Guitarist

Kings of Convenience

...
Verified via YouTube

Showen at the "Fight or Flight or Dance All Night" video clip

See how Bent Sæther (Motorpsycho) uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Bent Sæther (Motorpsycho)

Bassist

Motorpsycho

...
Verified via Photo

Bent's first bass: a Fender Precision – built in 1982. Its original neck was broken during a show in 1991 and replaced by a Jazz Bass-style neck. On this tour, Snah uses this bass for some songs.

See how Sean Smith uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Sean Smith

Bassist

We Were Promised Jetpacks

...
Verified via YouTube

We get a long, good look at Sean's bass. This is simply an all black Precision Bass by Fender.

See how Mark Damon uses Fender American Standard Precision Bass

Mark Damon

Bassist

The Pretty Reckless

...
Verified via Getty Images

Mark uses a black 2015 Fender American Standard Precision Bass with Dimarzio Model P pickups. Maple fretboard and usually has a Gruv Gear Fret wrap attached to it. Has been using this bass as one of his main stage and recording basses since he got it straight from Fender during the Going To Hell tour in 2015.

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 American Standard Precision Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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kiripunk

kiripunk

Gear IQ 267

johnny_t

johnny_t

Gear IQ 207

jason_jump

jason_jump

Gear IQ 434

mike_m

mike_m

Gear IQ 170

mike_m

mike_m

Gear IQ 170

edgestamenkovic

edgestamenkovic

Gear IQ 394

davidmcardoso

davidmcardoso

Gear IQ 128

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