Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $558

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

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Description

Step into the realm of sound with the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass, a versatile 4-string electric bass that captures the essence of Biffy Clyro's dynamic soundscape. This signature model is crafted to deliver both the aesthetic flair and sonic richness that James Johnston himself cherishes. The custom single-coil pickups are a standout feature, offering a smooth, clear, and rich sound that captures the heart of the iconic Jazz Bass tone. Whether you're laying down a solid groove or soaring into intricate solos, these pickups provide the clarity and depth you need.

The bass's HiMass bridge with bronze saddles is another key element, providing epic sustain that ensures every note resonates with power and precision. This isn't just any bridge; it's designed for better string vibration transfer, giving your performances that extra punch and attack. The rosewood fingerboard not only looks stunning but also offers a smooth playing experience, while the uniquely painted headstock adds a touch of class that sets this bass apart.

Perfectly capturing James Johnston's style, this Jazz Bass is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of musical artistry that invites you to explore new sonic territories. Whether you're a Biffy Clyro fan or simply love a well-crafted bass, the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass is an excellent choice for elevating your sound.

Key Features:

  • Signature model inspired by James Johnston's custom Fender Jazz Bass
  • Custom single-coil pickups for clear and dynamic sound
  • HiMass bridge with bronze saddles for enhanced sustain
  • Genuine rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Specially painted headstock for a unique look

Product specs

Brand Squier
Model James Johnston Signature Jazz Bass
Finish Lake Placid Blue
Year 2012 - 2015
Made In China
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Artist James Johnston
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape J-Style
Color Family Blue
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Squier Jazz Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Squier Artist Series
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass have?

The Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass features passive pickups, providing a classic Jazz Bass sound without the need for batteries or an active preamp.

Is the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable J-style body shape and accessible 4-string configuration, making it easy to play and learn on.

What is the neck material of the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass?

The neck of the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass is made from maple, offering a smooth playing experience and contributing to the instrument's bright tonal characteristics.

How would you describe the tonal characteristics of the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass?

The Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass delivers a balanced tone with clear highs and punchy lows, making it versatile for various genres, from rock to funk.

What is the finish style of the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass?

The Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass features a glossy Lake Placid Blue finish, providing an eye-catching appearance on stage or in practice settings.

Music City CZ

Music City CZ

Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass - Jaryn Janek)

Video thumbnail for Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass - Jaryn Janek) by Music City CZ

Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass - Jaryn Janek)

Music City CZ

Music City CZ

Video thumbnail for SQUIER BY FENDER James Johnston Jazz Bass LPB by session

SQUIER BY FENDER James Johnston Jazz Bass LPB

session

session

Video thumbnail for Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass Review by mekkemusic

Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass Review

mekkemusic

mekkemusic

Video thumbnail for Squier 베이스 James Johnston Jazz Bass by BUZZBEE TV

Squier 베이스 James Johnston Jazz Bass

BUZZBEE TV

BUZZBEE TV

Video thumbnail for Squier Jazz Bass James Johnston artist series by Filipe Andrade

Squier Jazz Bass James Johnston artist series

Filipe Andrade

Filipe Andrade

Video thumbnail for Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass Lake Placid Blue by mocasea

Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass Lake Placid Blue

mocasea

mocasea

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass.

Build quality

  • The Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass features a HiMass bridge, often praised for enhancing sustain and tuning stability, uncommon at this price point.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Some users appreciate the bass's vintage color and matching headstock, which are often likened to higher-end models aesthetically.

    Source

Comparisons

  • This model is compared favorably against the Matt Freeman Precision Bass, noted as the best "Fendery" Squier available, particularly for jazz bass enthusiasts.

    Source

User experience

  • One user mentioned that despite being skeptical of Squier quality, this model consistently receives positive reviews, even from those typically wary of the brand.

    Source
  • One user, whose first bass was the James Johnston model, describes it as an "awesome" and satisfying entry into bass playing.

    Source
  • It's noted that this model, even with some dings, remains visually appealing and retains its charm despite minor cosmetic flaws.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user remarked that if this bass had a Fender logo and a $1500 price tag, it would still garner positive reviews, highlighting perceived value for money.

    Source
  • Past private sales of this model reach around 430 euros in "very good condition," indicating that 380 euros for a modified version is a fair offer.

    Source
  • Upgrades on this bass would cost around 170 euros if purchased new, highlighting the added value in the current asking price.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have successfully added a Hipshot Xtender and a series/parallel switch to enhance versatility and tuning options for the Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass.

    Source
  • The bass was upgraded with Fender Noiseless 4 pickups and CTS pots featuring orange drop capacitors, enhancing sound quality and tonal range.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jasperwerij

I love this thing

This bass is amazing. People might think "Oh, it's just a Squier", but it actually is one of the best Squiers out there according to lots of people (including me). It's almost a Fender for me.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mickey Madden uses Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass

Mickey Madden

Bassist

Maroon 5

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture which was taken at the American Music Awards in 2007 you can see Mickey playing a Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass on stage

See how James Johnstone uses Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass

James Johnstone

Singer, Bassist

Biffy Clyro

...
Verified via Photo

According to the Fender website, James uses this bass.

See how Chris Khalife uses Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass

Chris Khalife

Bassist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

It's a Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass w/ a black guard.

"Put a new pickguard on my Squier! #MyChemicalRomance #HouseOfWolves #BassCover #MCR #TheBlackParade"

See how Romain Descampes uses Squier James Johnston Jazz Bass

Romain Descampes

Bassist

Puggy

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Romain appears playing a Fender Bass with blue headstock

Genre Usage

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

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