The Best Fender Jazz Bass Models You Should Consider In 2023

When it comes to bass guitars, there’s no denying that Fender’s Jazz Bass is a true legend in the field. With its timeless look, killer sound, and smooth playability, it’s a hit with musicians from all walks of life—whether you’re just starting out, a seasoned pro, or fall somewhere in between. If you’re on the hunt for the best Fender Jazz Bass this year, you’ve come to the right place. This article will guide you through making a choice that’s perfect for you.

So, let’s get ready, crank up the volume, and explore the world of bass guitars. After all, your perfect rhythm section is just a few scrolls away!

 

Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass is a widely recognized and well-loved design. It’s a part of the line that was intended to replace the American Standard Series from Fender.

Although it maintains its Jazz soul, it comes with some new features for the modern player. The bass is available in several eye-catching finishes, including sonic gray, black, Olympic white, and a 3-tone ‘burst.

Key Benefits

• Comes with a Fender Elite case with TSA-certified locks for secure travel.
• Slim, C-shaped maple neck with a satin-urethane finish for fast playability.
• Equipped with V-Mod Jazz bass pickups, designed by Michael Bump, which utilize a blend of alnico 2 and alnico 5 magnets for a versatile tone.
• Encourages players to explore different tones and techniques due to its remarkable playability.
• The HiMass Vintage bridge increases sustain, especially when strung through the body.
• The bass delivers fantastic sounds and is well-balanced.

Pricing

While the price tag can lean on the higher side, it is a worthwhile investment for those looking for a high-quality, lasting bass.

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Pros & Cons

The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass is a well-constructed instrument that offers superb playability and a range of versatile tones. It has a modern feel and encourages players to explore different tones and techniques. The design, particularly the dark knight model, is a pleasing blend of vintage jazz and modern active bass motifs.

Its slim C-shaped profile makes the neck comfortable to play with and is reinforced with “Posiflex” graphite rods. The neck also has a satin-urethane finish that allows for smooth and fast play. The sound across the fingerboard is even, a quality much appreciated by professional players.

The HiMass Vintage bridge allows for both top-loading and string-through-body options, significantly adding to the sustain of the sound. The tuning pegs operate smoothly, and the truss rod is easy to adjust. The overall tone and feel of the bass are impressive. The bass also comes with a high-quality case and offers comfortable access to upper frets.

Though performing well, the pickups are positioned in the classic ’60s jazz bass configuration and could have been improved for more low-end output. However, this can be adjusted with amp settings. If desired, the pickups can be replaced with aftermarket options. Another potential downside is the wide neck-joint gap, which could be tighter for better contact with the neck, but the overall balance and sound of the bass are not diminished by this.

The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass is a competitive instrument with great features and a sturdy case. It’s of high quality and works well on its own. The bass proves that Fender remains a relevant and trusted name in the industry.

 

Fender Player Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender Player Jazz Bass, a part of the well-regarded Player Series, is designed to cater to the unique characteristics of today’s players and creators. Its design, with flexible switching options and effortless playability, is appealing to both contemporary players and discerning veterans.

The build quality is solid, showcasing Fender’s long-standing reputation in the bass guitar industry, despite the slight drawback of a heavy body. The bass delivers versatile tones from its active EQ, making it a perfect instrument for different types of speakers and band settings.

Key Benefits

• Offers flexible switching options and effortless playability.
• Versatile tones from its active EQ.
• Solid build quality with securely attached pickups and smoothly moving tuners.
• Comfortable neck with 41.3mm nut width, a 12″-radius fingerboard, and a modern C-shaped neck profile.
• Stylish design with a finish that appeals to young and experienced players alike.

Pricing

The Fender Player Jazz Bass is priced at roughly $849 USD.

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Pros & Cons

As an owner of the Fender Player Jazz Bass, I’ve had a positive experience with this instrument overall. The Jazz Bass design is known for its player-friendly features; this variant is no exception. The neck is comfortable, making fretting easy and fun. Also, the bass offers versatile tones with its active EQ. It provides a lot of power and reliability, and it looks stylish and perfect for making bass videos.

The build quality of the bass is hard to fault. It has a solid feel, thanks to the hi-mass bridge. The pickups are well attached, and the tuners move steadily. The frets are easy to navigate, and the body finish is smooth and consistent.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks. Firstly, the plastic control pots feel a bit cut-price compared to the rest of the components. Secondly, the bass is slightly heavy, which might be a concern for some players, especially during long gigs or rehearsals. And lastly, while reasonable for a Fender, the price may be a bit high for beginners or young players on a tight budget.

 

Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass is part of Fender’s advanced series of guitars and basses, offering precision, performance, and unmatched tone. This 4-string bass maintains the iconic Jazz Bass sound but with some tweaks to its formula that enhance its versatility and playability.

The bass has a stunningly aesthetic design with a cobra-blue color, a maple fretboard adorned with block inlays and black binding, and a satin finish on the back of the neck. The Ultra Jazz Bass features a medium weight of around 9 1/4 pounds and an active preamp with a 3-band EQ for a wide tonal palette.

Key Benefits

• A “modern-D” shape neck for a comfortable grip and improved playability.
• Robust and growly fingerstyle tone characteristic of a Jazz Bass in passive mode.
• An active preamp with a 3-band EQ for a wider tonal palette.
• A redesigned active/passive preamp for endless tonal possibilities.
• The Ultra Noiseless Vintage pickups offer a classic Fender tone without any hum.
• Enhanced body contours for comfort and easy access to the upper registers.
• Lightweight vintage paddle tuning machines and a premium molded hardshell case included.

Pricing

The Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass is priced at roughly $2,249.99 USD.

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Pros & Cons

There is an undeniable charm to the Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass. The bass offers tonal versatility with its two noise pickups and active electronics. It stands out with its visually appealing design, featuring block inlays, a sparkly pearl finish, and a smooth satin finish on the back of the neck. The body contours are both beautiful and functional, enhancing comfort and easy access to the upper registers.

The active electronics on the Ultra Jazz Bass provide an added layer of tonal versatility. One of the best features is the active/passive switch, which allows for uninterrupted playing even if the batteries die. The sound it produces in active mode, particularly with the mid-shift up and the pickup selector turned towards the bridge, is quite impressive.

On the flip side, the bass required some setup adjustments, possibly due to climate changes during shipping. The stock strings were replaced, and the intonation and action needed tweaks. While the build quality and attention to detail are similar to the American Professional Precision Bass, the Ultra Jazz Bass falls short when it comes to the neck’s comfort. The high-fret cutaway feels unnecessary, and the binding is a bit showy. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass remains a top-of-the-line instrument, offering excellent precision, performance, and tone.

 

Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass is a tribute to Red Hot Chili Peppers’ bassist, Flea, mirroring his unique playing style, funk-influenced basslines, and distinctive sound. It is a faithful recreation of Flea’s rare ’61 Jazz Bass, known for its incredible tone and vintage finish.

The bass guitar features a “Road Worn” nitrocellulose lacquer finish, giving it an aged and worn appearance. It also includes dual Pure Vintage ’64 Jazz Bass single-coil pickups, a characteristic of its vintage-style bass tone.

Key Benefits

• Vintage-style bridge and C-shaped neck profile reminiscent of early Fender Jazz Basses.
• Fender Pure Vintage ’64 Jazz Bass single-coil pickups deliver the classical Jazz Bass tone.
• Unique “Road Worn” nitrocellulose lacquer finish for an aged and worn appearance.
• Top-notch construction and ergonomics with a comfortable offset contoured body and slim neck.
• Versatility in usage across various musical styles.
• Excellent value for its price given its high-quality construction and features.

Pricing

The Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass is a more affordable alternative for experiencing the vintage ’60s Jazz Bass sound and feel. It offers excellent value for its price and is a great investment for musicians who appreciate the vintage style.

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Pros & Cons

This bass is an accurate replication of a 1961 Jazz Bass, from the neck to the reverse gear tune to the pickups and volume controls. Its two distinct volume knobs and two separate tone controls allow for versatile tonal options, enabling different sound achievements. Furthermore, it conveys a vintage feel and sound reminiscent of early Motown music.

Despite its resemblance to a 1961 Jazz Bass, it is much more affordable, making it accessible to a wider range of musicians. It performs exceptionally well, delivering clean and clear notes even when played aggressively. Its versatility is commendable, as it can handle various music genres, including Latin music.

The Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass is a complete package that combines vintage aesthetics, durability, and excellent performance. It is a great choice for those who want the vintage Jazz Bass experience without the high price tag. It’s capable of accommodating different types of strings, whether flatwound or roundwound.

 

Fender American Performer Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender American Performer Jazz Bass is a new addition to the esteemed Performer series, recognized for its high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional sound. Crafted in Corona, California, this model is designed for professional musicians and performers, providing the exceptional tone and feel expected from a Fender instrument.

The bass features an alder body, a “Modern C”-shaped neck with a 9.5″-radius fingerboard, and two Yosemite single-coil Jazz Bass pickups, offering a versatile instrument capable of delivering a rich and dynamic range of sounds. The American Performer Jazz Bass is a model number 0198612357 and is part of Fender’s Electric Basses category. It has a variety of finishes to suit different preferences, and it’s a reliable and durable instrument, perfect for both live performances and studio recordings.

Key Benefits

• Classic Jazz Bass design with a solid body and a comfortable neck
• Two Yosemite single-coil pickups deliver a rich and dynamic sound
• The grease bucket tone system preserves the carefully shaped tone
• Four-saddle bridge for solid tuning stability, precise intonation, and increased sustain
• Vintage-style bridge and tuning machines for added stability and sustain
• Comes with a deluxe gig bag and is compatible with the Classic Series Precision/Jazz Bass Wood Hardshell Case
• Adjustable truss rod nut and a service manual

Pricing

The Fender American Performer Jazz Bass is priced at $1,499.99 USD.

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Pros & Cons

The Fender American Performer Jazz Bass has a classic design reminiscent of the seventies era, making it visually appealing. The sunburst finish and headstock are similar to vintage models, adding a touch of nostalgia. The neck of the bass is slim and quite similar to the thinner necks found on sixties models, making it easy to navigate and play chords with clarity. Despite its slim profile, the neck provides enough support and doesn’t give a flimsy feel.

When playing this Jazz Bass, it is common to use both pickups or focus on the bridge pickup for a brighter tone. The American Performer Jazz Bass successfully captures the warm depth and low-end response of vintage models without being overly bright in the treble range. The bridge pickup offers more brightness, attack, and grit while using both pickups provides a deep, funky tone.

However, some players might find that the volume and tone controls have a limited range, and the bass may need some attention to set up, particularly in the action of the strings. Nonetheless, the Fender American Performer Jazz Bass can be a great choice for those seeking that classic Jazz Bass tone.

 

Fender Standard Jazz Bass Guitar

Overview

The Fender Standard Jazz Bass Guitar is an exquisitely affordable electric bass guitar known for its quality, versatility, and comfortable playability. The design embraces the traditional body of electric guitars, featuring a double cutaway and a substantial body made of alder, a tonewood revered for its resonance and balanced tones.

The neck of the bass guitar, which is crafted from maple, ensures durability and stability. Additionally, the bass guitar embodies a standard-style bridge and a plastic nut.

Equipped with two single-coil pickups, the instrument produces bright and well-nuanced tones. The volume of individual pickups and the master tone can be controlled separately, giving artists a wide range of tonal options and creating unique tones suitable for jazz, rock and roll, and other music genres.

Key Benefits

• Comfortable playability and smooth navigation of the fretboard thanks to the maple neck.
• The body made of alder delivers balanced tones and resonance.
• Two single-coil pickups that produce bright, nuanced tones.
• Individual volume control for each pickup and master tone control.
• The bass guitar’s unique tone is apt for a variety of genres, including jazz and rock and roll.
• High-quality construction, offering excellent durability and stability.
• Choice of various finishes to suit individual preferences.
• A suitable instrument for both beginners and experienced players.

Pricing

The Fender Standard Jazz Bass Guitar is a high-quality instrument, offering excellent value for its price range. It provides a cost-effective solution to bass guitar enthusiasts seeking a reliable and versatile instrument.

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Pros & Cons

When it comes to the Fender Standard Jazz Bass Guitar, the positive aspects are quite notable. It stands out due to its solid alder body construction and sleek design, which not only makes it aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to the production of balanced tones and resonance.

The two single-coil pickups are a significant advantage of this bass guitar, offering a wide range of tones from warm to bright and punchy. This makes it versatile and suitable for different musical styles, satisfying a diverse range of artists.

Additionally, the presence of separate volume controls for each pickup and a master tone control allows for a considerable degree of customization, enabling musicians to shape their sound based on personal preferences.

On the other side, some might find the bulky body to be somewhat uncomfortable, especially for prolonged periods of playing. Furthermore, the use of a plastic nut in place of a bone nut may impact the overall tone and sustain of the instrument. However, these aspects are subjective and largely depend on individual preferences and playing styles.

In conclusion, the Fender Standard Jazz Bass Guitar remains a top-notch instrument, offering both sound quality and playability. It is indeed a classic instrument that has proven its worth over the years.

 

Fender Vintera ’60s Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender Vintera ’60s Jazz Bass is a vintage-style bass guitar that boasts the classic tones of the Jazz Bass at a more affordable price point. This instrument is part of Fender’s Vintera series, which draws on the best features from past decades to produce an authentic representation of Fender’s rich history.

The bass sports a striking Firemist Gold finish along with vintage-inspired features. The build quality is solid with a comfortable offset body shape and classic curves. Revoiced vintage-style ’60s Jazz Bass pickups and hardware like open-geared reverse machine heads and threaded bridge saddles further enhance its vintage aesthetic and performance.

Key Benefits

• Quality build: The bass features a solid alder body, known for delivering balanced sound across lows, mids, and highs.
• Playability: The mid ’60s C neck profile offers a comfortable vintage-style playing feel.
• Vintage-style hardware: Open-geared reverse machine heads and threaded bridge saddles evoke the classic Jazz Bass aesthetic.
• Tone: Revoiced ’60s J Bass pickups deliver a growling, punchy tone reminiscent of the original 1960s units.
• Versatile: The guitar is suitable for various genres, thanks to its blend of warm, rounded tones and tight, bubbling sounds.

Pricing

The Fender Vintera ’60s Jazz Bass is available at a discounted price of $959.99 USD, with an RRP of $1,199.99 USD.

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Pros & Cons

What I appreciate about the Fender Vintera ’60s Jazz Bass is its vintage vibe. The classic contours, the Firemist Gold finish, and the vintage-inspired features all contribute to an aesthetic that is truly a testament to Fender’s golden era.

The sound of the guitar is another high point. The re-voiced ’60s Jazz Bass pickups produce a tight, punchy character with a natural growl in the midrange, ideal for locking into a groove and exploring various techniques. The neck pickup provides warm, rounded tones, while the bridge pickup offers tight, bubbling sounds with an appealing crispness.

The playability is also a major advantage. The mid ’60s C-shaped neck feels comfortable in my hands, and the narrow nut width makes it easier to navigate the fretboard. The vintage-style bridge and reverse open-gear tuners also add to the overall playability and stability of the instrument.

However, no instrument is perfect, and the Fender Vintera ’60s Jazz Bass is no exception. While I love the vintage aesthetic, some might prefer a more modern look. Also, although I find the growling, punchy tone of the pickups appealing, this might not suit everyone’s taste, particularly those who prefer a softer, more mellow sound. Despite these minor quibbles, the Fender Vintera ’60s Jazz Bass remains a reliable and versatile instrument that delivers on both style and sound.

 

Fender Vintera ’70s Jazz Bass

Overview

The Fender Vintera ’70s Jazz Bass is an electric bass guitar that pays homage to the iconic bass guitars of the 1970s. As part of Fender’s Vintera series, it encapsulates vintage-inspired designs coupled with modern functionality. The bass boasts a classic offset body shape, complimented by a maple neck with a “C” profile and a rosewood fingerboard for a comfortable playing experience.

It is equipped with two vintage-style single-coil Jazz Bass pickups, delivering a versatile and punchy tone that Jazz Basses are renowned for. The vintage-style bridge with threaded saddles ensures solid intonation and sustain. This bass is available in various classic finishes, making it an attractive choice for both beginners and experienced players who appreciate vintage aesthetics.

Key Benefits

• Vintage-inspired design with modern playability
• Features a classic offset body shape, a maple neck with a “C” profile, and a rosewood fingerboard
• Equipped with two vintage-style single-coil Jazz Bass pickups
• Delivers a versatile and punchy tone
• Vintage-style bridge with threaded saddles ensures solid intonation and sustain
• Available in a variety of classic finishes
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced players

Pricing

The Fender Vintera ’70s Jazz Bass is valued at roughly $999.99 USD.

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Pros & Cons

The Fender Vintera ’70s Jazz Bass truly stands out in terms of its design and sound quality. The vintage-inspired design not only provides a sense of nostalgia but also assures modern playability. With the maple neck and the “C” profile, it gives me a comfortable grip, enhancing my playing experience. The classic offset body shape, along with the variety of finishes, adds to the overall visual appeal of the bass.

The bass comes equipped with two vintage-style single-coil Jazz Bass pickups, which, in my opinion, deliver the iconic punchy and versatile tone that Jazz Basses are famous for. The sound quality is exceptional and can be customized with the dual volume control and a master tone control, providing a wide range of tonal diversity.

However, despite the many positives, there are a few downsides to consider. While the bass offers a vintage look and feel, it may not appeal to those who prefer a more modern, sleek design. Also, despite the wide range of tonal options, the sound may not be heavy enough for those who prefer a more aggressive bass tone.

Overall, the Fender Vintera ’70s Jazz Bass impresses with its timeless design and sound quality. It’s a versatile instrument that can cater to a wide range of musical styles, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced players. Despite a few potential drawbacks, the pros definitely outweigh the cons.

The Difference between the Jazz Bass & The Precision Bass

The Fender Jazz Bass and the Fender Precision Bass are iconic bass guitars with distinct characteristics. One of the main differences between the two is the number of pickups each model uses. The Precision Bass comes with a single split-coil pickup, while the Jazz Bass uses two single-coil pickups, which contributes to their unique sound signatures.

Another difference you’ll notice is in the neck shape and width. The Jazz Bass has a slimmer neck, measuring 38 millimeters at the nut. This slim design allows for faster playability. On the flip side, the Precision Bass has a wider neck, measuring 41 millimeters at the nut, which can lead to a slower playing technique.

The body shape of the two basses also varies, with the Precision Bass having a symmetrical design and the Jazz Bass featuring an offset design. This introduces a personal preference aspect in terms of aesthetics. Additionally, you’ll find the Jazz Bass is generally slightly heavier than the Precision Bass due to the extra wood in the body.

While both models have measures to cancel electrical hum, the Precision Bass, with its wired series split-coil pickup, is typically quieter, especially in studio settings. As for controls, the Jazz Bass has separate volume controls for each pickup and tone control, while the Precision Bass keeps it simple with a single volume control and a tone control.

The distinct sound profiles of these two basses reflect their construction nuances. The Jazz Bass provides a brighter and more versatile tone due to its two pickups and blending capacity. In contrast, the Precision Bass gives a more focused and punchy tone, which is great for rock and Motown styles.

Choosing between the Jazz Bass and the Precision Bass really depends on your personal preference and playing style. If you prefer a slimmer neck and a wider range of tones, the Jazz Bass might be your pick. But if you prioritize simplicity, a punchy tone, and a wider neck, then the Precision Bass could be the one for you.

Why Choose A Fender Jazz Bass?

Picking a bass guitar can be overwhelming, with so many options out there. But let’s talk about the Fender Jazz Bass and why it’s a favorite for many. Fender introduced it back in 1960 as the Deluxe, and it brought a different feel and sound compared to its predecessor, the Precision Bass. It’s been associated with famous artists like Jack Casady, Larry Graham, Jaco Pastorius, and Marcus Miller, which certainly adds to its appeal.

The Jazz Bass is known for its unique design and tone. What sets it apart is its sleek waist and offset body contours. This design isn’t just for looks – it offers improved comfort while you’re playing, which is pretty important for any musician. The neck of the Jazz Bass narrows towards the nut, making it easier for your fingers to move around. This is a great feature if you’re into playing intricate bass lines.

Now, let’s talk about tone. The Jazz Bass is famous for its dual single-coil pickups that give a brighter, more trebly tone with a midrange growl. Some Jazz Bass models even include a Precision Bass pickup in the middle position for extra sonic flexibility. This makes it a good fit for a range of music genres, giving artists a wide spectrum of tonal choices. So, when you’re deciding on a new bass guitar, your personal preference in terms of look, feel, and sound is what matters. And it’s definitely worth considering the Fender Jazz Bass.

Striking the Right Chord – Your Ideal Jazz Bass

Finding the perfect balance between price, comfort, sound, and durability can be a bit tricky when you’re on the hunt for the perfect bass guitar. But don’t worry, Fender Jazz Bass guitars offer a range of choices that cater to all sorts of musical styles, preferences, and budgets. Each model we’ve looked at in this guide has its own unique charm and tone, reflecting Fender’s commitment to quality and musical innovation.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned musician, Fender Jazz Bass guitars offer a rich palette of sounds. From the classic tones of the Fender Standard Jazz Bass Guitar to the modern style of the Fender Player Jazz Bass, each model is a testament to Fender’s dedication to musical expression.

If you’re looking for a blend of vintage aesthetics with modern functionalities, you might want to consider the Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass and American Ultra Jazz Bass. They’re playable and offer a diverse tonal range, making them perfect for a wide array of musical genres.

For those of you who love a bit of nostalgia and a vintage feel, the Fender Vintera series, including the ’60s and ’70s Jazz Bass, deliver the classic Fender tones. The Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass offers an experience that mirrors the style and sound of the Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist, Flea.

At the end of the day, finding your perfect Fender Jazz Bass comes down to your individual preferences, style, and budget. Remember, the best bass guitar is the one that feels and sounds right to you. With Fender’s comprehensive range of Jazz Bass guitars, you’re bound to find your perfect match.