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Average Price: $5,799

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

The Fender Precision Bass 1968 is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history that continues to inspire bassists to this day. Known for its robust build and iconic presence, this bass guitar embodies the essence of the late '60s music scene. Crafted during the transitional CBS era, the 1968 model maintains the classic Precision Bass design with subtle refinements that cater to the evolving needs of musicians. Its smooth, contoured body and powerful pickups deliver a rich, full-bodied tone that has stood the test of time.

Whether you're laying down the groove in a rock band or exploring new sonic landscapes, the versatile sound of the '68 Precision Bass ensures that your basslines remain both clear and commanding. The neck offers a comfortable, familiar feel, making it easier for you to express your creativity without distraction. This model is not only a collector's item but also a reliable workhorse for any serious musician.

Key Features:

  • Classic Precision Bass design with improved CBS-era refinements
  • Contoured body for comfort and playability
  • Powerful pickups delivering rich, full-bodied tone
  • Comfortable neck for expressive playing
  • Timeless design that appeals to both collectors and musicians alike

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 the 1968 Fender Precision Bass?

The 1968 Fender Precision Bass typically features a comfortable "C" shaped neck profile, which is well-suited for a variety of playing styles and provides a classic feel that many bassists appreciate.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on a 1968 Fender Precision Bass?

The 1968 Fender Precision Bass is equipped with passive split-coil pickups, delivering a warm, punchy tone ideal for rock, blues, and funk music, with a strong low-end presence and clear mids.

Is the 1968 Fender Precision Bass suitable for beginners?

While the 1968 Fender Precision Bass is a vintage instrument that may appeal more to collectors and experienced players, its straightforward design and versatile sound can also make it a good choice for dedicated beginners.

What is the body material of the 1968 Fender Precision Bass?

The body of the 1968 Fender Precision Bass is made from either alder or ash, both of which contribute to its resonant sound and durable construction.

How many frets does the 1968 Fender Precision Bass have?

The 1968 Fender Precision Bass features 20 frets, providing a standard range for most bass playing needs.

Does the 1968 Fender Precision Bass come with active pickups?

No, the 1968 Fender Precision Bass is equipped with passive pickups, which offer a classic tone without the need for an onboard preamp.

Reviews

PROS

  • Pristine condition with minimal wear, preserving its vintage appeal

  • Rich, well-rounded sound with distinct and clear harmonics

  • Comfortable neck reminiscent of earlier 1960s models

  • Warm, buttery tone that improves with age

  • Plays like a dream with outstanding tone

  • Inspiring, alive feel due to its responsive nature

  • Maintains the pre-CBS feel and design quality

  • Exceeds expectations for vintage basses

CONS

  • Not in perfect mint condition due to minor marks and wear

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Precision Bass 1968.

Build quality

  • Late 60s Precision Basses are generally lighter, around 8 lbs, compared to late 70s models which can weigh 11-12 lbs due to heavier wood.

    Source
  • The peeling finish resembles uncured epoxy, indicating a potential refinishing issue rather than an original nitro finish.

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  • A DIY buckle rash protection plate was added, preventing wear but leaving four small screw holes.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Action on a 1960 Precision arrives quite high; reducing bridge string height can achieve 4/64ths at the 17th fret for a lower action.

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  • Taking the neck off to check for date stamps is advised, but ensure strings are loosened to prevent neck tension damage.

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User experience

  • Owners report the thick poly finish applied from 1968 can be brittle, necessitating careful maintenance to avoid cracking.

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  • High humidity storage can lead to finishes peeling, influencing maintenance considerations for similar vintage instruments.

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  • The original owner reports the bass's neck has relief but is not warped, maintaining playability.

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Comparisons

  • The 1968 neck finish switched to poly gloss, while the chunky D necks appeared in the early to mid-70s, influencing playability and feel.

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Value and pricing

  • Late 60s Precision Basses typically fetch higher prices than early 70s models, with some late 60s examples pricing over $4-5k due to pre-CBS parts influence.

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  • Pre-CBS models, like a '63 with original parts, can exceed $15k, significantly influencing pricing strategies.

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  • Despite modifications, market value is estimated at $6-7k, supported by original parts like pickups and tuners.

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Use cases and applications

  • Many 70s musicians favored late 60s models for their consistent quality, aligning with the desired vintage sound.

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Other

  • The yellow underlayer, known as "fullerplast," is a sealer applied by Fender, showing historical manufacturing processes.

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Features and functionality

  • Original lollipop tuners and 1966 pots contribute to the bass's vintage appeal and functionality.

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Mods and upgrades

  • White pickguard was swapped during a 2005 refinishing, originally a sunburst with tortoise pickguard.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rushton Moreve uses Fender Precision Bass 1968

Rushton Moreve

Bassist

Steppenwolf

...
Verified via YouTube

Can be seen in this video at 5:34. The tug bar and gleam of the brown shell pickguard can be seen for an instant. This performance was also in late 1968, fitting the timeline.

See how Geoff Lee uses Fender Precision Bass 1968

Geoff Lee

Music Producer

Modulate

...
Verified via Equipboard

Geoff Lee uses a Fender Precision Bass 1968, Olympic White, as confirmed by his listing on Equipboard.

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 1968, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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