Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $880
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$400
$1001+
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Description
The Fender Blacktop J Bass redefines the iconic J-Bass experience with a modern twist that’s sure to captivate both seasoned players and newcomers. While it retains the classic features that made the J-Bass a staple—like the comfortably contoured body and sleek maple neck—it introduces a fresh sonic palette thanks to its unique pickup configuration. Outfitted with a pair of split single-coil pickups, typically associated with the Precision Bass, this instrument offers a versatile range of tones that can be easily sculpted using the individual volume controls and master tone knob.
Whether you're laying down rock-solid grooves in the studio or unleashing dynamic riffs on stage, the Blacktop J Bass offers exceptional tuning stability with its Blacktop HiMass bridge and robust tuners. This bass guitar isn't just another iteration of a classic; it’s a bold leap forward for the J-Bass lineage, promising a new dimension of sound and playability.
Key Features:
- Classic Jazz Bass body and neck design for comfortable and fast playing
- 2 split-coil pickups provide an outstanding range of tones
- Individual volume control for each pickup plus a master tone knob for precise sound adjustments
- Heavy-duty Blacktop HiMass bridge and tuners ensure stable tuning on any stage
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | Blacktop Jazz Bass |
| Finish | Black, White Chrome Pearl |
| Year | 2012 - 2014 |
| Made In | Mexico |
| Categories | 4-String Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Material | Alder |
| Body Shape | J-Style |
| Color Family | Black, White |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Fender Jazz Bass |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | Split-Coil / Split-Coil |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender Blacktop |
FAQs
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What kind of pickups does the Fender Blacktop J Bass have?
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The Fender Blacktop J Bass features a unique dual split-coil pickup configuration, providing a powerful and versatile tone suitable for a wide range of musical styles.
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Is the Fender Blacktop J Bass suitable for beginner bass players?
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Yes, the Fender Blacktop J Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and versatile sound, which can accommodate various playing techniques and genres.
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What is the neck profile like on the Fender Blacktop J Bass?
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The Fender Blacktop J Bass has a slim, comfortable neck profile typical of Jazz Basses, making it easy to play and navigate, especially for fast and intricate bass lines.
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Does the Fender Blacktop J Bass have an active preamp?
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No, the Fender Blacktop J Bass is equipped with passive pickups and does not include an active preamp, which contributes to its straightforward, classic tone.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Fender Blacktop J Bass?
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The Fender Blacktop J Bass features an alder body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard, combining to produce a balanced tone with a smooth playing feel.
Videos
PMTVUK
Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black - Quick Look
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Blacktop J Bass.
Features and functionality
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The Fender Blacktop J Bass features two split-coil pickups positioned with the centerline over the standard Jazz pickup location for a unique tonal output.
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The P/P pickup configuration offers a modern, clear tone with all bridge, traditional Precision sound with all neck, and a heavy Jazz bass sound when combined.
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Dual volume knobs are preferred for blending pickups, offering more tonal flexibility than a simple toggle switch.
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Value and pricing
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Due to its discontinuation in 2014, the Blacktop J Bass carries a premium price on the secondhand market, driven by its relative scarcity.
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One owner found a used Fender Blacktop J Bass for $300 CAD, considering it a great value for the money.
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It's possible to find the Blacktop J Bass under $1,000 on secondhand markets, with some purchases reported at around $850.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners note the bass is ideal for garage and punk rock, offering a standard P sound with just the neck pickup or a fuller tone using both pickups.
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The P/P setup can achieve a "Rickish clang" with the neck pickup slightly reduced, offering versatility in tonal variations.
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Owners report that the double P setup offers a punchy sound, particularly suited for hardcore punk and heavier music styles.
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Mods and upgrades
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It's possible to modify a standard Jazz Bass to the Blacktop configuration by routing the body and using imported BTJ scratchguards available on eBay.
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User experience
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Some users appreciate the Jazz Bass neck combined with the P Bass pickup configuration for better playability, especially suitable for smaller hands.
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Comparisons
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A P/P pickup configuration is likened to a "beefier" version of a J/J, similar to the difference between buffalo and beef hamburgers.
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Compared to the Squier Precision Bass, the Blacktop J Bass is slightly lighter, making it a more comfortable choice for those familiar with heavier basses.
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Genre Usage
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