Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (3)
$429.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$429.99
Amazon
4.4 (3)
Used
Reverb
4.0 (8)
$399.99 New
$329.99 Used
Musician's Friend
3.0 (3)
$429.99

Average Price: $408

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass is a powerhouse of style and sound, designed for both aspiring and seasoned bassists. Its 35" scale and offset poplar body offer perfect balance, reducing neck dive and allowing for extended play without discomfort. The bolt-on maple neck ensures rock-solid stability, while the laurel fingerboard with 24 jumbo frets and a compound radius enhances playability, making intricate techniques a breeze.

Under the hood, the Spectra Bass JS3V boasts dual Jackson medium-output humbucking pickups that deliver a thunderous low-end growl. These pickups, combined with a HiMass bridge, provide enhanced stability and sustain, ensuring your sound is as bold as your performance. The onboard electronics offer an active 3-band EQ, volume, and blend controls, along with a 2-way toggle switch for coil splitting, giving you extensive tonal flexibility. The push/pull EQ bypass selector is a thoughtful feature, allowing you to keep the music going even if your battery runs out.

Visually, the Spectra JS3V stands out with its sleek black nickel hardware and distinct Jackson 3x2 headstock, making it a striking addition to any stage or studio setup. Whether you're laying down groovy basslines or cutting through a mix with aggressive tones, the Spectra JS3V is equipped to handle it all.

Key Features:

  • Offset poplar body with large upper horn for balance
  • Bolt-on maple neck with 35" scale
  • 24 jumbo frets on a laurel fingerboard with 12"-16" compound radius
  • Dual Jackson medium-output humbucking pickups
  • HiMass bridge for improved sustain
  • 3-band EQ, volume, and blend controls with push/pull EQ bypass
  • 2-way pickup coil-splitting toggle switch

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Spectra JS3 V
Body Material Poplar
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material Maple
Neck Shape Speed Neck
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Radius 12"-16" compound
Fingerboard Inlay White Dots
Number of Frets 24, Jumbo
Scale Length 35"
Nut Width 1.75"
Nut Material Black Plastic
Bridge/Tailpiece Jackson HiMass
Tuners Jackson Selaed Die-cast
Neck Pickup Jackson Medium Output Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Jackson Medium Output Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume (push/pull Active/Passive, 1 x blend, 3-band Active EQ
Strings Nickel Plated Steel, .045-.130
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass?

The Jackson JS Series JS3V features a "Speed Neck" profile, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience suitable for various playing styles, especially beneficial for quick and complex bass lines.

Is the Jackson JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass suitable for heavy metal music?

Yes, the Jackson JS3V is well-suited for heavy metal and similar genres, thanks to its medium output humbucker pickups which deliver a powerful, full-bodied sound ideal for aggressive playing styles.

How does the push/pull active/passive switch work on the Jackson JS3V bass?

The push/pull switch on the master volume control allows you to toggle between active and passive modes, providing versatility in tone. Active mode engages the 3-band EQ for more tonal shaping, while passive mode offers a traditional, straightforward bass sound.

What kind of fretboard does the Jackson JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass have?

The Jackson JS3V features a laurel fingerboard with a compound radius of 12"-16", offering smooth playability across the neck and accommodating both rhythm and lead playing.

Is the Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass suitable for beginners?

While the Jackson JS3V offers features that appeal to advanced players, its user-friendly design and versatile tonal options make it accessible for beginners looking to explore a 5-string bass.

Brandon Michael

Brandon Michael

Jackson Spectra JS3V Bass | Demo by Brandon Michael

Video thumbnail for Jackson Spectra JS3V Bass | Demo by Brandon Michael by Brandon Michael

Jackson Spectra JS3V Bass | Demo by Brandon Michael

Brandon Michael

Brandon Michael

Video thumbnail for Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3 & JS3V | Jackson Guitars by Jackson Guitars

Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3 & JS3V | Jackson Guitars

Jackson Guitars

Jackson Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Beautiful walnut and deep blue finishes add aesthetic appeal

  • Active electronics provide loud, punchy sound with versatile tone options

  • Coil split switch allows quick transition between metal and jazz tones

  • Active/passive toggle offers flexibility when battery dies

  • Smooth neck enhances playability and comfort

  • Well-balanced body suitable for extended playing sessions

  • Affordable price for high-quality features

  • 35" scale length is great for tension and string variety

  • Easy battery replacement with convenient cover

CONS

  • Action is low and may cause fret buzz

  • Single coil mode can sound too thin for some

  • Knobs feel cheap and may stick slightly

  • Factory strings are low quality and may need immediate replacement

  • Some users report a need for frequent fretboard adjustments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass.

Setup and maintenance

  • The B string hole in the bridge is small, causing difficulties when installing medium gauge strings as they can get stuck.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Spectra is described as a large instrument, whereas the Ibanez SR405E offers a more comfortable, smaller neck and improved bridge.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One owner purchased the Spectra at a significant discount, 40% off retail, which influenced their decision over more expensive options.

    Source

User experience

  • Some finishes, like the blue burst quilted maple veneer top, make the Spectra's large body appear more aesthetically pleasing.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Jackson Spectra JS3V Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Jackson JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass excels in build quality and comfort, featuring a sleek design that suits various playing styles. Its impressive neck and solid construction make it a joy to handle during long gigs. However, the stock pickups leave something to be desired, lacking the versatility that the instrument’s EQ could offer. While the bass shines in active mode with a tight low end, the occasional audible pop when engaging the preamp can be distracting. Overall, this bass is a strong contender in its price range, appealing to both beginners and seasoned players, provided they are willing to explore pickup upgrades down the road.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rick Savage uses Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass

Rick Savage

Bassist

Def Leppard

...
Verified via Photo

Rick Savage has been playing a custom Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass since the late 2000s or early 2010s. This is evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.

See how Noah Ashwood uses Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass

Noah Ashwood

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified
Color/Finish: Indigo Year: 2025

In an Instagram story, Noah Ashwood is seen using the Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String bass.

C

Chris Arias-Real

Bassist

Make Them Suffer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Make Them Suffer - Doomswitch (Guitar & Bass Playthrough)" by Greyscale Records, Chris Arias-Real is visibly using the Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass. Furthermore, this bass is explicitly listed in the video description.

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 Jackson JS Series JS3V 5-String Spectra Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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Gear IQ 73

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