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Average Price: $611

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$1001+

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Description

A nod to the golden age of Fender design, the Fender Japan PB-57 delivers an authentic touch of vintage charm to your bass collection. Crafted with meticulous dedication to the original 1957 Precision Bass specifications, this instrument is the ultimate blend of nostalgic aesthetics and modern playability. The PB-57 is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality build, making it a favorite among bassists who appreciate both form and function.

Its maple neck and fingerboard offer a smooth and responsive playing experience, while the single split-coil pickup captures the classic Fender tone with precision and power. This bass is not just about looks; it’s engineered for performance, with a robust sound that cuts through any mix. Whether you’re laying down a groove on stage or in the studio, the PB-57’s clarity and punch will always make an impression.

Designed for the discerning player, the PB-57 combines vintage style with modern reliability, ensuring you have an instrument that can grow with you through every musical journey. It's a perfect choice for those who desire both the look and sound of a true classic, brought to life by the revered craftsmanship of Fender Japan.

Key Features:

  • Authentic 1957 Precision Bass reissue
  • High-quality Japanese craftsmanship
  • Maple neck and fingerboard
  • Single split-coil pickup for classic Fender tone
  • Vintage-style hardware and design
  • Excellent tonal clarity and punch

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model PB-57 Precision Bass Reissue MIJ
Made In Japan
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape P-Style
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Precision Bass
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Vintage MIJ / CIJ

FAQs

What type of music is the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass best suited for?

The Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass is renowned for its versatility, making it ideal for genres like rock, blues, and jazz, thanks to its classic split-coil pickups that deliver a warm, punchy tone.

What is the neck profile of the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass like?

The Fender Japan PB-57 features a comfortable "C" shaped neck profile, which is well-suited for most playing styles and provides a smooth playing experience.

Does the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass have active pickups?

No, the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass is equipped with passive split-coil pickups, which offer a traditional, vintage sound without the need for an onboard preamp.

How many frets does the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass have?

The Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass comes with 20 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and playing styles.

Is the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Japan PB-57 Precision Bass is a great option for beginners due to its straightforward design, comfortable neck, and classic sound, making it easy to learn and play.

kirilius

kirilius

Fender PB'57 Japan

Video thumbnail for Fender PB'57 Japan by kirilius

Fender PB'57 Japan

kirilius

kirilius

Video thumbnail for Fender Japan PB57 US by guitarsib

Fender Japan PB57 US

guitarsib

guitarsib

Video thumbnail for #00030 FenderJapan precisionbass PB57 by SonoseeQ

#00030 FenderJapan precisionbass PB57

SonoseeQ

SonoseeQ

Video thumbnail for MIJ Fender PB57 Circa '92 by Bass Japan Direct

MIJ Fender PB57 Circa '92

Bass Japan Direct

Bass Japan Direct

Reviews

PROS

  • Sublime neck unique to Japanese models, enhancing playability

  • Exceptional vintage tone highly praised by experienced players

  • Slim neck profile between a PBass and JBass, improving comfort

  • Highly regarded as a top choice even among extensive bass collections

  • Offers excellent value for money as a leading bass option

CONS

  • Electronics may require upgrades for optimal performance

  • Rustic bridge can be improved due to sharp allen keys

  • Action may need adjustment upon purchase

  • Potential rust on pickup poles due to age

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Japan PB-57.

Build quality

  • MIJ Fender basses from the Fuji Gen Gakki era (mid-late '80s to early '90s) are noted for exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality materials.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners frequently upgrade MIJ basses with Seymour Duncan pickups and Switchcraft pots for improved sound quality.

    Source
  • Some users replace the '57’s anodized pickguard due to aesthetic preferences, often opting for more classic looks.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MIJ 75 Jazz Bass reissue includes Fender USA 70s Jazz reissue pickups and a maple neck with block inlays.

    Source
  • The '57 P-Bass reissue features a thicker neck shape and wider nut compared to the '62, contributing to a more robust playing feel.

    Source
  • It's noted that the '57 typically has an all-maple neck, which is preferred by some for its aesthetics and low-maintenance quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • MIJ basses are highly versatile, excelling in both live performances and practice settings, though some users find MIA models superior in studio recordings.

    Source

User experience

  • Many MIJ owners report a preference for the feel and playability over MIA counterparts, often citing a smoother playing experience.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the '57’s neck for its "baseball bat" feel, appealing to those who favor a thicker neck profile.

    Source
  • The '62 reissue is praised for its slimmer neck profile, often described as feeling more comfortable and easier to play for those used to narrower necks.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The '57 reissue is noted for its two-tone burst finish and gold pickguard, compared to the '62’s more traditional sunburst and tortoise pickguard.

    Source
  • The '57 reissue is often favored for its distinct neck specs and aesthetics, while the '62 is seen as more traditional and reminiscent of "grandfather's P-Bass."

    Source

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Genre Usage

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Used With

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Community setups

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Gear IQ 1304

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