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Description

The Fender Traditional Precision Bass is a celebrated choice for bassists seeking a timeless instrument that delivers both reliability and rich sound. This electric bass guitar is a hallmark of Fender craftsmanship, cherished for its straightforward and robust design, which has been inspiring musicians for decades. The Precision Bass is known for its split single-coil pickup, providing a punchy and articulate tone that cuts through any mix, making it ideal for a wide range of musical genres.

Crafted with an alder body, the Precision Bass offers a balanced resonance and a comfortable playing experience. Its maple neck, featuring a smooth satin finish, enhances playability and performance, while the rosewood fingerboard ensures a warm tonal quality. The vintage-style bridge and tuning machines provide excellent intonation and tuning stability, allowing for consistent performance in any setting.

Whether you're grooving in a studio session or rocking on stage, the Fender Traditional Precision Bass stands out as a versatile and dependable instrument. Its enduring design and sound quality continue to make it a staple among musicians who demand both classic tone and modern reliability.

Key Features:

  • Alder body for balanced resonance
  • Maple neck with satin finish for enhanced playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard for warm tonal quality
  • Split single-coil pickup for punchy, articulate sound
  • Vintage-style bridge and tuning machines for stable intonation
  • Ideal for a wide range of musical genres

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Traditional Precision Bass
Year 1997
Made In Mexico
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Poplar
Body Shape P-Style
Color Family Black, Red, White
Finish Style Gloss
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 Traditional

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender Traditional Precision Bass like?

The Fender Traditional Precision Bass features a wider neck profile, which many players find comfortable for playing steady, rhythmic lines. This makes it ideal for locking into grooves, especially in genres like rock and blues.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Fender Traditional Precision Bass pickups?

The Precision Bass is known for its punchy, mid-focused tone, thanks to its split-coil passive pickups. This makes it an excellent choice for genres that require a strong, clear bass presence, such as rock, punk, and funk.

Is the Fender Traditional Precision Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Traditional Precision Bass is suitable for beginners due to its straightforward design and versatile sound. Its playability and iconic tone make it a popular choice for players starting their bass journey.

What body material is used for the Fender Traditional Precision Bass?

The body of the Fender Traditional Precision Bass is made from poplar, which contributes to its balanced tone and lightweight feel, making it comfortable to play for extended periods.

Does the Fender Traditional Precision Bass have active pickups?

No, the Fender Traditional Precision Bass features passive pickups, which are known for delivering a classic, warm tone without the need for a battery-powered preamp.

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Setup and maintenance

  • Check the nut for material quality and proper string slot cuts to avoid tuning issues.

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  • Lemon oil treatment can significantly improve the feel of Pau Ferro fretboards, reducing the initial "chalky" texture.

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  • Heel-adjust truss rods may rarely need adjustment; some users manage without neck removal but warn of potential screw end cracks.

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Comparisons

  • Owners suggest Japanese-made vintage Fenders over newer American models for better craftsmanship within the same budget.

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  • Some users find the Sire M5's versatility and neck/fretwork preferable to the Fender Player Series, questioning the premium for Fender's brand name.

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  • Owners find the quality of MIJ Fender basses closely rivals American-made models, often preferring the string-through design.

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Features and functionality

  • Neck profiles vary; some are as thin as a Jazz Bass, while others resemble a baseball bat.

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  • The MIJ 50s P Bass features a single-coil pickup praised for its bite, offering a distinct tonal character suited for various styles.

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User experience

  • One user prefers their Mexican-made Precision Bass over multiple American models for feel and sound.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Suggestions include replacing the stock nut on MIM Fenders with a higher quality one for improved performance, especially if not using Fender strings.

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Build quality

  • Concerns about the dry feel of Pau Ferro boards on MIM Fenders, with a preference for maple or roasted maple, which are described as smoother.

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  • Basswood bodies can withstand moderate abuse, with owners noting durability even in challenging environments like desert climates and rough travel conditions.

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Value and pricing

  • The price gap between Squier Classic Vibe and Fender Player Series has narrowed, making the latter a more justifiable upgrade for many players.

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Use cases and applications

  • TI Jazz Flats and Labella 760FS-TB strings are confirmed to work well with the string-through bridge, minimizing breakage concerns.

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