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Average Price: $4,999

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Fender Precision Bass from 1965-1969 stands as a testament to the evolution of electric bass guitars, merging vintage appeal with enduring performance. Crafted during the post-CBS acquisition era, this instrument reflects a pivotal moment in Fender's history, when mass-production techniques began to influence design and construction. Nevertheless, the Precision Bass maintains its reputation for delivering a robust, full-bodied sound that has resonated through decades of musical innovation.

This bass is beloved by countless legendary musicians, including Geezer Butler and John Deacon, for its ability to cut through the mix with authority while retaining a warm, vintage tone. Its classic design is both nostalgic and functional, featuring a contoured body that provides exceptional comfort for long jam sessions or live performances.

Split single-coil pickups deliver a punchy, articulate sound, making it a versatile choice for various genres, from rock and punk to jazz and blues. The neck is designed with a slim C-profile, offering smooth playability and fast action, which has made the Precision Bass a favorite among bassists seeking both precision and power.

Whether you're a seasoned player looking to expand your collection or a newcomer drawn to its iconic allure, the Fender Precision Bass 1965-1969 remains a cornerstone of musical history, embodying the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • Contoured body for ergonomic comfort
  • Split single-coil pickups for a punchy, articulate sound
  • Slim C-profile neck for fast playability
  • Vintage appeal with enduring performance
  • Versatile across multiple genres

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Precision Bass
Finish Black, Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Charcoal Frost, Dakota Red, Fiesta Red, Ice Blue Metallic, Lake Placid Blue, Olympic White, Shoreline Gold, Sonic Blue, Sunburst
Year 1965 - 1969
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape P-Style
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Grey, Red, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Precision Bass
Neck Material Maple
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 CBS Era

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on a 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass?

The neck profile of a 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass is typically a "C" shape, known for its comfortable grip and ease of playability, making it suitable for various playing styles and hand sizes.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on a 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass?

The split-coil passive pickups on a 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass deliver a warm, punchy tone with a strong midrange presence, ideal for rock, blues, and soul music.

Is the 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass suitable for beginners?

While the Fender Precision Bass is iconic and versatile, its vintage models from 1965-1969 are typically more suited for experienced players and collectors due to their historical value and unique tonal characteristics.

What materials are used in the construction of a 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass?

The body of a 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass is made from alder or ash, with a maple neck and rosewood fretboard, contributing to its rich, resonant sound and classic look.

How does the 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass compare to modern bass guitars?

The 1965-1969 Fender Precision Bass offers a distinct vintage tone and craftsmanship that many players find superior due to its historical significance and unique sound, differing from the often brighter and more versatile tones of modern bass guitars.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional vintage tone with a warm, buttery, and silky sound

  • Almost mint condition, retaining original features and finishes

  • Plays like a dream, offering an inspiring and responsive experience

  • Comfort and feel of the neck comparable to early 60s models

  • Retains original nitro cellulose varnish, adding to its vintage charm

  • Highly regarded as one of the best production years for Precision Basses

  • Strong harmonic richness and clarity in sound

  • Rare, collectible piece with historical value and original Fender catalog

CONS

  • May have small cosmetic marks from age or minor use

  • Not a perfect specimen for those seeking pristine, untouched instruments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969).

Build quality

  • Mid to late 60s post-CBS necks have a thin profile with a B nut width, transitioning to thicker gloss finishes by 68/69.

    Source
  • 70s-era necks are significantly chunkier and weights can vary widely, from 8.5lbs to 11.5lbs in similar models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Late 80s Fullerton vintage reissues are noted for their exceptional quality, though they are costly.

    Source
  • The Fender Precision Bass from 1969 is noted for having a distinctive feel and sound, appreciated even by owners of more modern and high-end basses.

    Source

User experience

  • Differences between MIM and MIA are often more cosmetic than tonal, with some players unable to discern sound differences blindfolded.

    Source
  • Some collectors prioritize "birth year" and color over mechanical condition when purchasing vintage Fender basses.

    Source
  • A 1969 Fender Precision Bass is praised for its unique play wear and sound, even when not in the best condition, showing the lasting appeal of vintage models.

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Comparisons

  • Squier Affinity Jazz basses can occasionally surpass expectations, with some units offering superior paint jobs and playability compared to others.

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Value and pricing

  • Custom finishes and matching headstocks can significantly increase a vintage Fender bass's value.

    Source
  • Provenance and association with famous artists can dramatically increase the instrument's market value.

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  • The scarcity of pre-CBS models drives higher prices, while post-CBS models are less sought after due to inconsistent quality control.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Originality impacts value; irreversible changes like refinishing or routing can reduce value by up to 50%.

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Setup and maintenance

  • One owner hand-carved a new nut from bone for their 1969 Fender Precision Bass, highlighting the importance of custom maintenance for optimal performance.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Freeman uses Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969)

Matt Freeman

Bassist

Rancid

...
Verified
Color/Finish: Black Year: 1969

Matt Freeman, bassist of Rancid, owns a Fender Precision Bass from 1969, as confirmed by a listing on Reverb titled "Fender Precision Bass 1969 Owned by Matt Freeman Of Rancid."

See how Andy Rourke uses Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969)

Andy Rourke

Bassist

The Smiths

...
Verified via Photo

Andy’s main bass used with the smiths: his beloved 1964 Fender precision bass in sunburst. It was purchased for him by Seymour Stein in New York City in early 1984 after The Smiths signed with the label. He also bought Johnny Marr the “famous” ES-355. Andy was drawn to this well loved and worn bass due to its year, being the same year he was born in. This bass can be seen throughout The Smiths prime time, and has been used on many of their albums and live performances. It is considered to be his “old faithful”.

See how Zac Brown uses Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969)

Zac Brown

Singer, Guitarist

Zac Brown Band

...
Verified via Chicago Music Exchange
Color/Finish: Blue Refin Year: 1965

I've played 'Enter Sandman' on this live on stage many nights." - Zac Brown

See how Yok Koeswoyo uses Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969)

Yok Koeswoyo

Bassist, Composer

Koes Plus

...
Verified via Historia - Majalah Sejarah Populer Pertama di Indonesia

According to the article "Selamat Tinggal Penyanyi Tua" by Historia, Yok Koeswoyo is confirmed to use a Fender Precision Bass 1965 - 1969 Sunburst.

See how Rushton Moreve uses Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969)

Rushton Moreve

Bassist

Steppenwolf

...
Verified via Photo

he can be seen playing the bass in this image ; this photo was taken in 1967 so it would fit the time frame

See how Patrick Dahlheimer uses Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969)

Patrick Dahlheimer

Bassist

Live

...
Verified
Color/Finish: Blue

According to an archived 2016 article on the Wayback Machine, Patrick Dahlheimer used a Fender Precision Bass from 1965 to 1969. It is noted that this bass was unfortunately tossed at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards.

From another source: 'I'm sorry to say that the '65 became firewood after I tossed it at the MTV Awards'

Album Usage

The Fender Precision Bass (1965-1969) 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 Precision Bass (1965-1969), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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