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Description

Step back in time with the 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue, a tribute to an era when the bass guitar truly came into its own. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this bass captures the essence of Fender's classic 1957 model, offering both seasoned musicians and new players a chance to experience the authentic vintage vibe. This reissue combines the best of both worlds—iconic design with modern precision.

Each note resonates with warmth and clarity, thanks to its vintage-style single-coil pickup, faithfully reproducing the rich tones that define the Precision Bass legacy. The slim, contoured body ensures comfort during long jam sessions, while the smooth maple neck allows for effortless playability, even during the most complex bass lines. The craftsmanship speaks volumes, with a build quality that rivals some of the more expensive Fender models from that era.

Whether you're laying down the groove in a live performance or recording in the studio, this reissue stands as a reliable workhorse. It’s not just an instrument; it's a piece of history that invites you to explore new musical frontiers while honoring the past.

Key Features:

  • Authentic 1957 Precision Bass design
  • Vintage-style single-coil pickup
  • Slim, contoured body for comfortable play
  • Smooth maple neck for effortless playing
  • Faithful reproduction of the original Fender sound and build quality

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 kind of tones can I expect from the 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue?

The '57 Precision Bass Reissue delivers classic, warm, and punchy tones typical of a vintage P-Bass, making it ideal for rock, blues, and jazz. The split-coil passive pickups provide a rich and full sound that cuts through a mix.

Is the 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue suitable for beginners?

While the '57 Precision Bass Reissue is a high-quality instrument, its vintage style and tone appeal more to experienced players seeking a specific sound. Beginners might appreciate its straightforward design, but it excels in the hands of those familiar with traditional P-Bass characteristics.

What is the neck profile like on the 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue?

The '57 Precision Bass Reissue features a comfortable "C" shape neck profile, offering a smooth playing experience. The maple fretboard adds a bright tonal quality, and the neck is well-suited for both fingerstyle and pick playing techniques.

How does the 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue compare to modern Precision Basses?

This reissue captures the vintage essence with its classic design and tone, differing from modern Precision Basses which may feature active electronics and varied materials. It's perfect for players seeking an authentic vintage experience with traditional passive pickups.

What type of music genres is the 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue best suited for?

The '57 Precision Bass Reissue excels in genres like rock, blues, and jazz, where its warm and punchy tone can shine. Its versatility also makes it a great choice for Motown and other styles requiring a deep, rich bass sound.

kirilius

kirilius

Fender PB'57 Japan

Video thumbnail for Fender PB'57 Japan by kirilius

Fender PB'57 Japan

kirilius

kirilius

Video thumbnail for #00030 FenderJapan precisionbass PB57 by SonoseeQ

#00030 FenderJapan precisionbass PB57

SonoseeQ

SonoseeQ

Video thumbnail for Fender Precision Bass PB57-70 Relic Japan 1990 by BassJapanUSA.ru

Fender Precision Bass PB57-70 Relic Japan 1990

BassJapanUSA.ru

BassJapanUSA.ru

Video thumbnail for Fender Reissue 57 (japan 1990) by Filipe Andrade

Fender Reissue 57 (japan 1990)

Filipe Andrade

Filipe Andrade

Video thumbnail for Miles vibe (Fender precision bass Japan 1990-1991 57-53) by Сергей Макаров

Miles vibe (Fender precision bass Japan 1990-1991 57-53)

Сергей Макаров

Сергей Макаров

Reviews

PROS

  • Sublime neck unique to Japanese models, enhancing playability

  • Excellent vintage tone, retaining classic Precision Sound

  • Special lacquer finish with mother-of-pearl effect adds aesthetic appeal

  • Slim neck provides a comfortable playability, bridging PBass and JBass styles

  • Great value; often becomes a favorite among multiple basses

  • Easy to play in Drop-D with softer strings

CONS

  • Electronics might need upgrading for peak performance

  • Rustic bridge with sharp allen keys may require an upgrade

  • Some rust on pick-up poles due to age

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1990 Japanese Fender '57 Precision Bass Reissue.

Build quality

  • The fretboard on the MIJ 70's Jazz Bass Reissue features a bound rosewood design praised for its quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend replacing stock pickups with Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounders for a fuller sound.

    Source
  • A popular mod includes upgrading to Hipshot tuners and a Badass II bridge for better tuning stability and sustain.

    Source
  • Owners have added series/parallel switches to their Jazz basses, achieving tones closer to a Precision bass and improved performance with dirt effects.

    Source
  • Hipshot D-tuners are commonly added to the E string of Jazz basses for expanded range close to a 5-string.

    Source
  • Fralin pickups are favored for enhancing tone in Fender Jazz basses, as evidenced by a user upgrading their Mexican Standard Jazz Bass with them.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MIJ ‘57 Precision Bass Reissue has been noted to have a lighter basswood body compared to the American Standard.

    Source
  • A user noted a preference for a Fender Jazz bass over a Precision bass due to the smooth neck pickup and nasal bridge pickup, highlighting its tonal versatility.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Mid to late 80s and early 90s MIJ models are highly sought after for their high-quality builds from Fuji Gen Gakki.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MIJ Jaguar bass is noted for its versatility, allowing for easy tonal changes to suit different musical styles.

    Source

User experience

  • A 1990s MIJ Fender Precision '57 Reissue was so valued that its owner actively sought its return after lending it out, indicating strong personal attachment.

    Source
  • A 1978 fretless Precision bass has been a long-term favorite for over 40 years, suggesting lasting satisfaction and reliability with that model.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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martin_hofmann

Excellent Precision Bass with special laquer finish and d-tuner

Excellent Precision Bass with special laquer finish with mother-of-pearl effect and d-tuner. The bass features the classic Precision Sound. I have put on slightly softer strings (040 - 100). This makes it very easy to play in Drop-D without it sounding thin

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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