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Average Price: $880

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Unleash your inner groove with the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass, a bold reimagining of the classic J-Bass design that promises to electrify your sound. This exceptional instrument marries the iconic asymmetrical Jazz Bass body with the signature ultra-comfortable maple neck, delivering both style and substance for the discerning bassist. The standout feature of this model is its unique pickup configuration: a pair of split single-coil pickups, typically found on the Precision Bass, offering a truly versatile sonic palette. With independent volume controls for each pickup and a master tone knob, you can effortlessly sculpt your sound to perfection.

The Blacktop Jazz Bass doesn’t just sound good — it stays rock-solid in any venue, thanks to the Blacktop HiMass bridge and sturdy tuners that ensure impeccable tuning stability. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or commanding the stage, this bass is designed to impress. Dive into the world of the Blacktop Jazz Bass and experience a new dimension of musical expression that only Fender can deliver.

Key Features:

  • Classic Jazz Bass body and neck design for enhanced playability
  • Two split single-coil pickups for a wide range of tones
  • Individual volume controls for each pickup plus master tone knob for precise sound shaping
  • Heavy-duty hardware for stable tuning in any setting

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 type of pickups does the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass have?

The Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass is equipped with passive split-coil pickups, providing a powerful and punchy sound suitable for various music genres.

What is the neck profile of the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass?

The Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass features a comfortable "C" shaped maple neck, which offers smooth playability and is well-suited for both fingerstyle and pick playing.

Is the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass is suitable for beginners due to its versatile sound, comfortable neck, and straightforward controls, making it an excellent choice for those starting out.

Does the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass have an active preamp?

No, the Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass does not have an active preamp; it uses passive electronics, which contribute to its classic and straightforward tone.

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

The Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass features an alder body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard, offering a balanced tone with a comfortable playing experience.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

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 RW WCP by session

FENDER Blacktop Jazz Bass RW WCP

session

session

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 Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black 2012 Mexico by Loud Lemon Demo

Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass Black 2012 Mexico

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The neck pickup alone offers a standard P bass sound, while using both pickups together delivers a fuller, beefed-up tone ideal for punk rock.

    Source
  • The double P pickup setup provides a notably punchy sound, ideal for hardcore punk bands.

    Source
  • The separate volume knobs allow for precise blending of neck and bridge pickups, providing more tonal control compared to a single master volume.

    Source
  • The bass features a unique double P pickup configuration, which some players find surprising and appealing for its distinctive sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Blacktop Jazz Bass can be directly compared to the Modern Player Jazz Bass, which also features humbuckers, highlighting the versatility of the Jazz Bass body style.

    Source
  • Compared to the Squier CV70’s P Bass, the Blacktop Jazz Bass is considered higher quality by some users while still offering a lighter weight option.

    Source
  • The Blacktop series, including the Jazz Bass, were produced in Mexico but, due to a factory issue, some models might have been finished in the USA.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners use this bass prominently in garage and punk rock settings due to its robust and versatile sound palette, especially when both pickups are engaged.

    Source
  • The double P configuration is noted for its bright and punchy sound, particularly when using new strings, making it suitable for aggressive playing styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being discontinued, the model carries a premium due to its uniqueness and scarcity, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and players alike.

    Source
  • It's possible to find used models for under $1,000, with some owners reporting purchases around $850 on Reverb.

    Source
  • The typical price range for this bass on the used market is $600 to $700, with some owners considering this a good deal for the Blacktop series.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some suggest routing a regular Jazz Bass body to fit the Blacktop's pickup configuration, with aftermarket scratchguards available for customization.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the body of the Blacktop Jazz Bass heavy, impacting long-term playability.

    Source

Build quality

  • The headstock on some models may have finish issues, with owners noting bumps that resemble birdseye maple but are actually in the finish.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender Blacktop Precision and Jazz basses | Jazzwise

jazzwise.com

Fender's Blacktop Jazz Bass aims to deliver more volume and tonal variety with its unique pickup configuration. While the Precision model impresses with its surprising tonal range and sleek design, the Jazz version struggles to match its counterpart's quality. A solid choice for those seeking a reliable bass, but make sure to test both models to find your ideal sound.

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 9 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Carlos Dengler uses Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

Carlos Dengler

Bassist

Interpol

...
Verified via Photo

Carlos Dengler using a Fender Jazz Blacktop Bass.

See how Cory Murchy uses Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

Cory Murchy

Bassist

Minus the Bear

...
Verified via Photo

In a 2018 rig rundown interview with Premier Guitar, Cory highlights a back-up "Mexican made Jazz bass" with "weird P-bass configurations". This bass appears to be the Fender Blacktop Jazz bass model, based on the double P-pickups in a Jazz body.

Source: https://www.premierguitar.com/gear/rig-rundown-minus-the-bear-2018

See how John Finnegan uses Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

John Finnegan

Bassist

Norma Jean

...
Verified via Photo

"Norma Jean bassist John Finnegan with a Blacktop Jazz Bass. Photo by Joe Anderson. #onstageseverywhere #fender @normajeanband"

See how Beni Blakeway uses Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

Beni Blakeway

Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

Benji started using a Black fender jazz bass instead of his epiphone thunderbirds now

See how Daniel Rumsey uses Fender Blacktop Jazz Bass

Daniel Rumsey

Singer, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout the video you can see Dan playing a black Fender jazz bass during their set at field day 2014.

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 Blacktop Jazz Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

Community setups

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Gear IQ 496

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