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Pricing and availability
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Description
The Fender Mustang Competition Bass '71 is a classic electric bass that channels the spirit of the early '70s with its distinctive design and sound. This instrument is ideal for musicians seeking a bass guitar that combines vintage aesthetics with modern playability. With its short scale neck, the Mustang Competition Bass offers a comfortable playing experience, making it particularly well-suited for those with smaller hands or those who prefer a more relaxed playing style.
The bass features a single split-coil pickup that delivers a punchy, dynamic sound, perfect for a wide range of musical genres from rock to funk. Its vintage-style tuning machines ensure stable tuning, while the bridge with adjustable saddles allows for precise intonation. The Mustang Competition Bass is celebrated for its versatility and ease of use, making it a popular choice among both beginners and seasoned bassists.
Key Features:
- Short scale neck for comfortable playability
- Single split-coil pickup for dynamic sound
- Vintage-style tuning machines for stable tuning
- Adjustable saddles for precise intonation
- Ideal for multiple musical genres
Videos
eddievegas1
1971 Orange Competition Fender Mustang Eddie Vegas www.eddievegas.com
1971 Orange Competition Fender Mustang Eddie Vegas www.eddievegas.com
eddievegas1
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Competition Mustang Bass (1969-1973).
Build quality
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The pearloid pickguard has been noted to break away, particularly at the lower 'horn' of the guitar body, which may impact aesthetic appeal and require repair.
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The competition blue finish on the '71 Mustang Bass can fade to a dark forest green over time if stored improperly, offering a unique aged aesthetic.
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Features and functionality
Value and pricing
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The 1971 Mustang is often priced lower than other vintage Fenders, attributed to its status as a student model and the polyester finish used post-1968.
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Comparisons
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Some users suggest considering a Jaguar or Jazzmaster for similar pricing, which may better suit indie/alternative styles due to their tonal versatility.
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The custom Knucklehead was inspired by the '71 Mustang but offers a distinct telecaster deluxe vibe with a reverse tremolo for unique playability.
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Setup and maintenance
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Fitting flat wounds on the '71 Mustang Bass enhances its thump, providing a deeper, vintage sound often sought after in classic rock and Motown genres.
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User experience
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Owners who value aesthetics may be drawn to the racing stripe design, which is appreciated but not widely available on newer models.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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Keith Urban uses a 1972 Fender Competition Mustang Bass during his performances, as detailed in the "Keith Urban Rig Rundown for High and Alive Tour 2025" by Premier Guitar on YouTube.
In this picture you can see Chris playing a blue competition bass to record Abuse Me
One of his earliest basses, Mike played this bass in his earlier groups like Moses and the starting period of Split Enz. Later in his career it was joined by a custom Madill bass and a number of Gibson bases. His Mustang Bass was likely made around 1970/71 with a competition orange finish on the body (complete with stripe) and a natural maple headstock. Around 1974 the bass was re-finished by Phil Judd in a gold colour
Album Usage
The Fender Competition Mustang Bass (1969-1973) has been featured on the following albums:
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 Competition Mustang Bass (1969-1973), it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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