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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

What kind of pickups does the Fender Blacktop J Bass have?

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.

Is the Fender Blacktop J Bass suitable for beginner bass players?

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.

What is the neck profile like on the Fender Blacktop J Bass?

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.

Does the Fender Blacktop J Bass have an active preamp?

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.

What materials are used in the construction of the Fender Blacktop J Bass?

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.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black - Quick Look

Video thumbnail for Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black - Quick Look by PMTVUK

Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black - Quick Look

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass by Keng Bassist by Keng Bassist

Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass by Keng Bassist

Keng Bassist

Keng Bassist

Video thumbnail for VAM TV - Apresenta - Baixo Fender Jazz Bazz BLACKTOP by VAMTV

VAM TV - Apresenta - Baixo Fender Jazz Bazz BLACKTOP

VAMTV

VAMTV

Video thumbnail for Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black 2012 Mexico by Loud Lemon Demo

Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black 2012 Mexico

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Video thumbnail for Fender Blacktop J Bass Супермаркет МУЗЫКА / Минск / MUZ.BY by Магазин МУЗЫКА / Минск / MUZ.BY

Fender Blacktop J Bass Супермаркет МУЗЫКА / Минск / MUZ.BY

Магазин МУЗЫКА / Минск / MUZ.BY

Магазин МУЗЫКА / Минск / MUZ.BY

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

  • 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.

    Source
  • 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

  • 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.

    Source
  • 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

  • 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

  • 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.

    Source

User experience

  • 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

  • A P/P pickup configuration is likened to a "beefier" version of a J/J, similar to the difference between buffalo and beef hamburgers.

    Source
  • 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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Build quality

  • Some users note the bass is relatively heavy, which can be a drawback for extended playing sessions.

    Source

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Genre Usage

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