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Average Price: $540

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step back in time with the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass, a nostalgic nod to the era that redefined the sound of funk and rock. This bass guitar seamlessly marries vintage aesthetics with modern craftsmanship, offering both seasoned players and newcomers a chance to experience the authentic soul of the '70s. At its core, this instrument is all about delivering that unmistakably punchy and bright tone, thanks to its meticulously crafted single-coil vintage-style pickups. Whether you're slapping and popping or laying down a smooth groove, the Jazz Bass ensures every note is as expressive as your playing style.

The contoured body enhances comfort, making extended sessions a breeze, while the block inlays on the neck provide a classic visual flair that stands out on any stage. Its smooth, fast-playing neck is a tribute to Fender's legendary playability, offering a familiar but distinct feel that invites creative exploration. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer details of tonal richness, the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass is more than just an instrument—it's a portal to a timeless musical legacy.

Key Features:

  • Single-coil vintage-style pickups for an authentic '70s sound
  • Contoured body for enhanced comfort
  • Fast-playing neck with block inlays
  • Bright, punchy tone ideal for funk and rock genres
  • Perfect balance of vintage aesthetics and modern craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Classic Series '70s Jazz Bass with Pau Ferro Fretboard
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Black
Year 2017 - 2018
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, Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Pau Ferro
Model Family Fender Jazz Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Classic Series

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass?

The Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass features a "C" shaped neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip for most players, making it suitable for both fast playing and traditional fingerstyle techniques.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass?

This bass is equipped with dual single-coil pickups, delivering a bright, clear tone with a pronounced midrange growl, ideal for genres ranging from jazz to rock.

Is the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass suitable for beginners or advanced players?

The Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass is versatile, making it a great choice for both beginners seeking a quality instrument to grow with and advanced players looking for classic Fender tones and playability.

What is the fretboard material on the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass and how does it affect the sound?

The fretboard is made of Pau Ferro, which provides a smooth playing surface and contributes to a warm, articulate sound with a slightly brighter tone than rosewood.

Does the Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass have active or passive pickups?

The Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass features passive pickups, offering a traditional, organic sound that is favored by many players for its dynamic response and tonal clarity.

Dean Mark

Dean Mark

Fender 70's Jazz Bass

Video thumbnail for Fender 70's Jazz Bass by Dean Mark

Fender 70's Jazz Bass

Dean Mark

Dean Mark

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass.

Build quality

  • The rosewood fretboard provides a contrasting look with the block inlays, enhancing the bass's aesthetic appeal.

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  • The thick poly finish on the neck can feel sticky, but buffing with fine steel wool improves the tactile experience.

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  • The neck is praised for its excellent fit and finish, offering a comfortable playing experience.

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Features and functionality

  • It's noted that black/RW/pearloid combinations are less common compared to black maple fretboards, making this bass particularly unique.

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  • The use of pau ferro for the fretboard is noted, which may not appeal to everyone, diverging from traditional rosewood.

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Value and pricing

  • An owner acquired this model for $350, including a hard shell case, highlighting its potential as a great value find.

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  • Despite its higher price, the Fender Classic is noted for its durability with better wood and hardware, making it a long-term investment compared to the Squier VM.

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User experience

  • The bass retains its original parts, except for the pick-guards, indicating that even unmodified, it maintains its appeal and functionality.

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  • Owners report the neck exceeds expectations in terms of craftsmanship and playability.

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  • The neck profile on the Classic 70s Jazz Bass is described as having a thicker front-to-back feel, with a standard 1.5" nut width, providing a unique playing experience.

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Comparisons

  • Compared to other models, black Fender Classic 70's Jazz Basses seem rarer, making them more desirable for collectors or players seeking unique aesthetics.

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  • The Fender Classic 70s Jazz Bass features true 70s bridge pickup spacing, unlike the Squier VM 70s Jazz, which uses 60s spacing, offering a slightly different tonal punch.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The neck requires nut cutting for proper setup, which may be a consideration for potential buyers.

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  • Squier basses often require additional setup work, such as filing frets and neck adjustments, which can add costs if professional services are needed.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners of the Squier VM series often upgrade the bridge and tuners to improve longevity and performance, matching closer to the feel of higher-end models.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Wachter uses Fender Classic 70's Jazz Bass

Matt Wachter

Bassist, Keyboardist

Thirty Seconds to Mars

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Verified via YouTube

You can see Matt play this Bass at 3:20. If you look closely you see the truss rod looking out at the headstock, alos you can see the frettboard binding and block inlays. At 2:38 is the back of his Bass visible. There are no string holes, so it has to be a topload bridge. Im not quite sure which series this Bass belongs to. EIther "Classic Series" or "Vintera", but definitely a 70s Jazz Bass.

N

Noah Harmon

Bassist

Poison the Well

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Verified via YouTube

In the video "Poison the Well Rig Rundown with Ryan Primack, Vadim Taver & Noah Harmon" by Premier Guitar, at the 28:37 mark, Noah Harmon is seen with a Fender Classic Series ’70s Jazz Bass, which he later demonstrates.

G

Guto Pryce

Bassist, Composer

Super Furry Animals

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Verified via Photo

In this photo of the 2016 Pitchfork Music Festival, Guts can be seen with a 70s Jazz Bass.

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 Classic 70's Jazz Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

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