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$1001+

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Description

Designed for the discerning bassist, the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V is a masterclass in combining vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. This five-string electric bass is inspired by the legendary bassist Marcus Miller and crafted to exacting standards. Featuring an active/passive switch, it offers a wealth of tonal flexibility to suit any musical style, from the slapping funk of Miller himself to the warm, rounded tones of jazz and blues.

Constructed with a sleek alder body and a smooth maple neck, the Jazz Bass V ensures a comfortable playing experience, whether you're on stage or in the studio. Its 20-fret fingerboard provides easy access to higher notes, making it versatile for soloing or intricate fingerwork. The addition of a 3-band EQ lets you dial in your perfect sound, while the vintage-style bridge enhances sustain and clarity. This bass is not just about looks and sound; it’s designed to meet the rigorous demands of professional play.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with a maple neck for a classic feel and rich sound
  • 5-string configuration for extended range
  • Active/passive switch for versatile tonal control
  • 3-band EQ for precise sound shaping
  • Vintage-style bridge for improved sustain and playability
  • Comfortable 20-fret fingerboard for seamless navigation across the frets
  • Designed in collaboration with Marcus Miller for authentic sound and style

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Marcus Miller Artist Series Signature Jazz Bass V
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Black, Natural, Shoreline Gold, Vintage White
Year 2003 - 2014
Made In United States
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Artist Marcus Miller
Body Shape J-Style
Color Family Black, Brown, Gold, Tan, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Jazz Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 5-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Artist Series

FAQs

What makes the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V different from other Jazz Basses?

The Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V features a signature design with active preamp controls, offering enhanced tonal flexibility tailored to Marcus Miller's playing style. Its 5-string configuration and maple fretboard provide a unique blend of playability and sound suitable for advanced players.

Is the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V is well-suited for slap bass techniques, thanks to its active preamp and maple fretboard, which allow for a bright, punchy sound ideal for this playing style.

What type of music is the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V best suited for?

The Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V is versatile and excels in genres such as jazz, funk, and R&B, where its active preamp and precision construction deliver the dynamic range and clarity required for these styles.

Does the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V come with passive pickups?

Yes, the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V is equipped with passive pickups, providing a classic Jazz Bass tone that can be further enhanced by its active preamp for a wide range of sound options.

How does the neck profile of the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V affect playability?

The neck of the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V is crafted from maple, offering a smooth playing experience with a comfortable grip that supports fast, intricate playing styles, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead bass lines.

AngelDust Guitars

AngelDust Guitars

Fender Jazz Bass Marcus Miller 5 | fb.com/angeldust.guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender Jazz Bass Marcus Miller 5 | fb.com/angeldust.guitars by AngelDust Guitars

Fender Jazz Bass Marcus Miller 5 | fb.com/angeldust.guitars

AngelDust Guitars

AngelDust Guitars

Video thumbnail for FENDER Marcus Miller Bass V- maxproud by maxproud

FENDER Marcus Miller Bass V- maxproud

maxproud

maxproud

Video thumbnail for Fender Jazz Bass Marcus Miller V  - sound demo by Tiago “TMBASS” Monteiro

Fender Jazz Bass Marcus Miller V - sound demo

Tiago “TMBASS” Monteiro

Tiago “TMBASS” Monteiro

Reviews

PROS

  • Outstanding playability reminiscent of classic 70s Jazz basses

  • Beautiful instrument with a high-quality neck

  • Incredible sound quality

  • Excellent action, enhancing overall playability

  • Low B string delivers exceptional performance

CONS

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The Fender Marcus Miller Jazz V USA is notably heavier, with some models reaching up to 13.5 pounds, compared to the Ultra Jazz V's approximate 10 pounds.

    Source
  • "Crafted in Japan" models are particularly cherished, with a sense of pride and affection noted among long-time owners.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Marcus Miller Jazz V offers a more percussive and aggressive tone, while the Ultra Jazz V has thick, burpy low mids with a 60's character.

    Source
  • The Marcus Miller Jazz V's 70's pickup spacing is distinctive, with some players preferring it despite the heavier weight.

    Source
  • One user compared the Marcus Miller Jazz Bass favorably against the Ibanez ATK, noting the latter's versatility but expressing a preference for the distinct sound of the MMJB.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Marcus Miller Jazz includes a 2-band preamp, while the Ultra Jazz V features a 3-band preamp, hum-canceling pickups, and a true passive mode with tone control.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have upgraded the Marcus Miller preamp to a Mike Pope 4-band with passive tone control for enhanced tonal versatility.

    Source
  • John East preamps are highly recommended for their modern, versatile sound, though they come at a higher price point.

    Source
  • Aguilar preamps are mentioned as quality alternatives for enhancing the Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V's tone.

    Source

User experience

  • The 7.25" radius of the Marcus Miller Jazz V is praised for its comfortable, smooth playability, described as feeling like "butter."

    Source
  • Owners report long-term satisfaction, with some keeping their Marcus Miller Jazz for over 20 years, highlighting its lasting appeal even among non-J bass enthusiasts.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners suggest these preamps for cutting through mixes without compromising the bass's inherent tone.

    Source
  • Described as transformative for those previously indifferent to Fender, illustrating its impact on changing perceptions of the brand.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Lomenzo uses Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V

James Lomenzo

Bassist

Megadeth

...
Verified via Photo

This photo is of James Lomenzo formerly of Black Label Society, Ozzy Osbourne, and HAIL! performing live during Megadeth's ENDGAME tour. The bass he is seen playing is the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V. He has removed the pickup cover of the neck pickup.

See how Paulo Jr. uses Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V

Paulo Jr.

Bassist

Sepultura

...
Verified via Photo

In this instagram post, Paulo can be seen holding a 5 string Fender Marcus Miller Signature Bass

See how Andras Ispan uses Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V

Andras Ispan

Bassist

...
Verified via Facebook

The picture clearly shows the artist with the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V

See how Divinity Roxx uses Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V

Divinity Roxx

Singer, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the attached video, Divinity Roxx goes through the basses she has at home. Included at around 6:50 is her custom Fender Jazz Bass V Marcus Miller Signature bass.

See how Diego Soria uses Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V

Diego Soria

Bassist, Music Producer

Cattle Decapitation

...
Verified via Photo

In an interview for Bass Player magazine, Diego Soria mentions that the Fender Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V is one of his favorite basses.

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 Marcus Miller Jazz Bass V, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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