Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,260
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 is more than just a musical instrument; it's a time capsule that transports you to the golden era of rock and roll. This electric bass guitar captures the essence of the iconic 1960 model with stunning accuracy, blending vintage charm with a touch of modern playability. Crafted from an alder body, it resonates with a warm, rich tone that has defined countless classic tracks. The Pure Vintage '60 Split-Coil pickup is the heart of this bass, delivering a punchy, articulate sound that echoes the unmistakable growl of its legendary predecessor.
The hard rock maple neck, shaped in a comfortable 1960 "C" profile, is paired with a slab rosewood fretboard for a smooth and responsive playing experience. You'll appreciate the vintage details like the clay dot fretboard inlays and the bone nut, which add authenticity and character to this meticulously crafted instrument. Modern enhancements like the updated truss rod and fingerboard radius ensure that this bass plays as effortlessly on stage today as it would have back in the '60s.
Key Features:
- Alder body with gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish
- 1960 “C” shaped hard rock maple neck
- Slab rosewood fretboard with clay dot inlays
- Pure Vintage '60 Split-Coil Precision pickup
- 20 Vintage Tall frets
- Bone nut and nickel/chrome hardware
- 3-Ply Tortoiseshell pickguard
- Pure Vintage 4-saddle bridge with threaded steel saddles
- Includes vintage-style brown case with orange lining
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 4 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | Precision |
| Body Material | Alder |
| Body Finish | Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Neck Shape | 1960 C |
| Neck Joint | Bolt-on |
| Radius | 7.25" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Clay Dots |
| Number of Frets | 20, Vintage Tall |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Nut Width | 1.70" |
| Nut Material | Bone |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Pure Vintage 4-saddle with Threaded Steel Saddles |
| Tuners | Pure Vintage Reverse Open Gear |
| Middle Pickup | Pure Vintage '60 Split-coil Precision |
| Controls | 1 x master volume, 1 x master tone |
| Strings | Fender, .045-.105 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960?
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The neck profile of the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 is a 1960 C shape, offering a comfortable and familiar feel for players accustomed to vintage-style basses.
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What type of pickups are used in the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960?
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This bass features a Pure Vintage '60 Split-coil Precision pickup, providing classic, punchy tones ideal for a wide range of musical styles.
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Is the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 suitable for beginners?
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While it is a high-quality instrument, the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 is more suited to experienced players who appreciate vintage design and sound.
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What is the body material of the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960?
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The body of the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 is made from alder, known for its balanced tone and light weight.
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Does the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 come with a case?
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Yes, the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 comes with a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.
Videos
Fender
Exploring the American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass | American Vintage II | Fender
Reviews
PROS
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Authentic 60's feel and sound with impressive vintage tone
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Lightweight alder body for comfortable playability
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Exceptional build quality with flawless fit and finish
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Pure vintage pickups with spectacular sound
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Versatile tone control from crystal clear to rich and soulful
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Slab rosewood fretboard with comfortable 7.25" radius
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Nitro finish for a classic look, though it may wear over time
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Neck is slightly narrower and shallower, enhancing playability
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Comes with ashtray and pickup covers, offering customization options
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Incredible sustain and balance, outperforming many other prestigious basses
CONS
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Prone to scuffing and scratching due to nitro finish
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Neck heavy due to lightweight body, may require adjustment
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Higher price point, though reflects professional quality
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass.
Features and functionality
Comparisons
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The American Vintage II 1960 is suggested as a better alternative to late 60s or 70s P-Basses due to consistency in build quality and reliability without the risks of vintage wear.
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The American Vintage II is noted for its value compared to custom shop models, offering a vintage vibe without the higher price tag of a custom shop or pre-CBS instrument.
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The 1960s C shape neck is noted to be thicker compared to the thinner neck profile of a Jazz Bass, potentially influencing playability for those with smaller hands.
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The American Pro II is mentioned as a favored alternative by owners, praised for its feel and tone, suggesting a strong competitor within the Fender lineup.
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User experience
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An owner describes the Daphne Blue model as having a warm tone, enhancing playability and visual appeal, while also avoiding potential issues linked to mistreated vintage basses.
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An owner reports playing 55 gigs in a year with the Daphne Blue model, citing its reliability as a primary instrument.
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Users note that the nitro sunburst finish visually "glows", enhancing the bass's aesthetic appeal.
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Some users emphasize that part of the cost of Fender instruments includes a premium for the brand name, which may not necessarily equate to superior quality.
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Use cases and applications
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For those seeking the aesthetic and aging characteristics of a vintage bass, the American Vintage II provides a "blank slate" for personal wear and character development.
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Build quality
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The fiberboard "clay dots" are an orange color, mimicking aged markers, although originally these would have been white.
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Setup and maintenance
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Fluorescent green gaffe tape is used by some to mark key fret positions due to visibility issues with side dots in low light.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In the YouTube video titled "the swell season - gigantic (live)," Glen Hansard is seen using the Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 during a live performance of "Gigantic" by the Pixies, featuring the Whitefish Bay 8th Grade Choir in Milwaukee at the Riverside Theater. The video, uploaded by Minze Hart, is part of the bonus DVD from The Swell Season's album "Strict Joy."
In the video "Chris Chaney and the 5088: Home Studio Tour," at 1:47, Chris Chaney is visibly showcasing a Fender Precision American Vintage II 1960 bass guitar. This video, authored by Rupert Neve and available on YouTube, serves as clear evidence of Chaney's use of this specific instrument.
Album Usage
The Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision 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 American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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