Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (4)
$2,699.99
Guitar Center
$2,699.99
Fender
$2,699.99
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$2,699.99
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$2,619.99 New
$1,599.99 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (3)
$2,699.99
zZounds
$2,699.99
Thomann
5.0 (2)
$1,999.00
Gear4Music
£1,699.00

Average Price: $2,491

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Fender American Vintage II 1966 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

Dive into the golden era of music with the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass, a masterpiece that recaptures the revolutionary spirit and the exquisite craftsmanship of its time. This bass guitar is not just an instrument; it is a piece of history, meticulously designed to bring the authentic Fender tone and feel to the modern stage. With its sleek, offset body style and a narrower neck at the nut, it offers an unparalleled playing experience, catering to those who demand both sophistication and a touch of vintage charm in their music.

The essence of the 1966 Jazz Bass is captured through its period-accurate features, from the "U" shaped hard rock maple neck to the round-lam rosewood fingerboard with vintage tall frets, ensuring a smooth and comfortable play. The white neck binding, pearl dot inlays, and the iconic 4-ply tortoiseshell pickguard not only add to its aesthetic appeal but also resonate with the style of the era. Equipped with Pure Vintage '66 Jazz Bass single-coil pickups, this bass delivers the classic Fender thump, ensuring that every note you play is imbued with the rich, soulful tone that has defined generations of music. Whether you are on stage or in the studio, the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass stands as a testament to Fender's legacy of innovation and quality, making it a must-have for collectors and musicians alike.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish
  • Maple neck with a comfortable 1966 "U" profile
  • Bound round laminated rosewood fingerboard with white 7 mm pearloid dot inlays
  • 20 Vintage Tall frets for effortless playability
  • Two Pure Vintage '66 Jazz Bass Single Coils for authentic Fender tone
  • 2 Volume and 1 master tone control for versatile sound shaping
  • 4-Ply Tortoiseshell pickguard and matching painted headstock for a classic look
  • Pure Vintage 4-saddle bridge with threaded steel saddles
  • Vintage-style "Lollipop" tuners for stable tuning
  • Includes a black vintage-style case with orange lining

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Jazz
Body Material Alder
Body Finish Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Neck Material Maple
Neck Shape 1966 U
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Radius 7.25"
Fingerboard Inlay White Dots
Number of Frets 20, Vintage Tall
Scale Length 34"
Nut Width 1.5"
Nut Material Bone
Bridge/Tailpiece 4-saddle American Vintage Bass with Treaded Steel Barrel Saddles
Tuners Vintage Style Lollipop
Middle Pickup Pure Vintage '66 Single-coil Jazz Bass
Bridge Pickup Pure Vintage '66 Single-coil Jazz Bass
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x master tone
Strings Fender, .045-.105
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass?

The Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass features a 1966 U-shaped neck profile, which provides a comfortable grip, ideal for players who prefer a thicker neck feel.

Are the pickups on the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass suitable for jazz music?

Yes, the Pure Vintage '66 Single-coil Jazz Bass pickups deliver a warm, articulate tone that is well-suited for jazz, as well as other genres like funk and rock.

Is the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass suitable for beginners?

While the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass is designed with vintage enthusiasts in mind, its playability and classic sound make it accessible for dedicated beginners who appreciate its historical design and quality.

What type of finish does the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass have?

This bass features a Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish, which enhances the resonance and aging process, giving it a classic look and feel.

Does the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass come with a case?

Yes, the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and ease of transport.

What is the scale length of the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass?

The scale length of the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass is 34 inches, offering a standard reach and tension that bass players are accustomed to.

Fender

Fender

Exploring the American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass | American Vintage II | Fender

Video thumbnail for Exploring the American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass | American Vintage II | Fender by Fender

Exploring the American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass | American Vintage II | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC by Empire Music

Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC

Empire Music

Empire Music

Video thumbnail for Fender USA American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass Model Demo - ‘Stay Home’ by Bassist 한지원 (Jiwon Han) by Music Force Official

Fender USA American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass Model Demo - ‘Stay Home’ by Bassist 한지원 (Jiwon Han)

Music Force Official

Music Force Official

Video thumbnail for NEW Fender Vintage II Jazz Bass | Unboxing and Demo by Bully Thakidd

NEW Fender Vintage II Jazz Bass | Unboxing and Demo

Bully Thakidd

Bully Thakidd

Video thumbnail for Fender | American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass 3 Color Sunburst by 三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

Fender | American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass 3 Color Sunburst

三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

Video thumbnail for New Fender American Vintage II basses at Willie's by williesguitars

New Fender American Vintage II basses at Willie's

williesguitars

williesguitars

Video thumbnail for FENDER AMERICAN VINTAGE II 1966 JAZZ BASS Vs FENDER AMERICAN ORIGINAL VINTAGE 1966 JAZZ BASS by Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

FENDER AMERICAN VINTAGE II 1966 JAZZ BASS Vs FENDER AMERICAN ORIGINAL VINTAGE 1966 JAZZ BASS

Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

Video thumbnail for Fender  |  American Vintage II 1966 Jazz BassOlympic White by 三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

Fender | American Vintage II 1966 Jazz BassOlympic White

三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

三木楽器 / MIKIGAKKI 公式チャンネル

Video thumbnail for FENDER AMERICAN VINTAGE II 1966 JAZZ BASS - FAST VIDEO SOUND TEST  BY RINO CONTEDUCA by Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

FENDER AMERICAN VINTAGE II 1966 JAZZ BASS - FAST VIDEO SOUND TEST BY RINO CONTEDUCA

Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

Reviews

PROS

  • Flawless finish and striking color options like seafoam green

  • Includes vintage-style extras like metal pickup cover and bridge plate

  • High-quality G&G case included enhances value

  • Comfortable 60s slim neck offers smooth playability

  • Offers vintage mid-60s tones and punch

  • Lightweight with excellent factory setup

  • Accurate replication of 1960s Jazz Bass aesthetics and sound

  • Rosewood fingerboard and lollipop tuners add to vintage appeal

  • Period-accurate details make it a gig-worthy instrument

  • Resonates like a custom shop model, yet more accessible

CONS

  • Some units have finish flaws and paint inconsistencies

  • May require additional setup for optimal playability

  • Quality control issues noted with factory finishes

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass.

Build quality

  • The lack of nib ends on the binding has been pointed out as a quality concern, suggesting a cheaper production feel compared to previous models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The matching headstock and bound neck are standout features, highly appreciated for their aesthetic appeal.

    Source
  • The neck has a thicker C profile compared to other Jazz models, requiring some players to adjust their technique.

    Source

User experience

  • There is no neck dive when the bass is on a strap, providing a balanced and comfortable playing experience.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • In the UK, these basses are priced lower than American Professional Jazz basses, raising questions about Fender's pricing strategy.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Slapping LaBellas on this bass is a popular choice, enhancing playability and sound, leading to increased usage.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners frequently swap the stock pickups for Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounders to achieve a consistent sound across multiple basses.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Ultra model's active EQ is considered excessive by some, while the '66 Jazz is appreciated for its simplicity and color options.

    Source
  • Geddy Lee Jazz Bass models are highlighted as excellent alternatives, especially for those interested in a specific tonal consistency across instruments.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Satin finish on the back of the neck is recommended for a smoother playing experience, especially if transitioning from a different neck profile like the Geddy Lee model.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender Unveils the American Vintage II Series Jazz and Precision Basses - Bass Magazine

bassmagazine.com

Fender's American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass is a meticulously crafted homage to the iconic original, delivering a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern playability. The authentic specifications, including period-accurate pickups and a comfortable neck profile, make it a joy to play. However, some may find its high price tag a barrier, particularly if they're seeking a more affordable option. Overall, this bass is a celebration of Fender's legacy, perfect for players who appreciate vintage quality and are willing to invest in it.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Chiyo Kamekawa uses Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass

Chiyo Kamekawa

Bassist

Yura Yura Teikoku

...
Verified via Photo

In a photograph, Chiyo Kamekawa is observed utilizing the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass, confirming its use by the artist.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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