The Best Fender Precision Bass: Our Top Picks

If you’re hunting for the best Fender Precision bass guitars in 2023, you’ve come to the right place. Our guide showcases some of the brand’s most coveted models, each with its unique features, benefits, and reviews. The Fender Precision Bass, an instrument that shook up the music industry, has been the go-to for many iconic musicians.

This article will guide you through what makes these instruments strike a chord with players around the globe, from their superior build to the unique sound they emit. We can assure you this: By the time you’ve finished this article, you’ll know which Fender Precision Bass is music to your ears. So, get ready, and let’s discover the top Fender Precision Bass in 2023.

 

Fender American Professional II Precision Bass

Overview

The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass is a high-quality bass guitar that merges classic design with modern upgrades. Constructed with an alder body, this bass is known for its warmth and harmonic richness. The maple neck ensures a comfortable playing profile, while the V-Mod II split coil pickup provides a balanced, versatile sound.

This bass guitar has been crafted with a sculpted heel joint along with top-grade hardware, which includes the Hi-Mass bridge and fluted tuners. With a wide array of tonal variations, the American Professional II Precision Bass retains the distinctive Precision sound that’s been foundational in numerous hit records.

Key Benefits

• High-quality construction and finish
• Alder body that delivers warm and rich harmonic tones
• Comfortable maple neck
• Distinctive precision sound
• V-Mod II split coil pickup for balanced and versatile sound
• Sculpted heel joint for enhanced playing comfort
• High-quality hardware including Hi-Mass bridge and fluted tuners

Pricing

The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass is a high-quality instrument built with superior materials and craftsmanship.

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Pros & Cons

As a part of the American Pro 2 lineup, the Fender American Professional II Precision Bass is known for its premium hardware and slight revisions to the iconic design, which imbue the instrument with a high level of playability. It’s equipped with a high mass bridge that allows for a string-through-body design. Additionally, it features a new V Mod 2 pickup that voices different pairs of strings differently, providing a rich and versatile output.

The maple neck with a rosewood fretboard ensures a comfortable playing experience, while the 62 P bass neck profile adds to the playability. The passive design with revised neck heel and a satin finish on the maple neck makes the bass well-built and produces a great sound without any unwanted buzzing or humming.

However, despite the instrument’s high-quality build and performance, the price can be a point of contention. Some may find the instrument worth the price tag, while others may seek more tonal versatility at a similar price point.

In essence, the Fender American Professional II Precision Bass, with its exceptional sound and playability, is a reliable choice for bass players, but the higher price tag may be a potential drawback for some.

 

Fender American Original ’60s Precision Bass

Overview

The Fender American Original ’60s Precision Bass is a classic electric bass guitar, paying homage to the vintage models that have shaped the sound of modern music. This bass embodies the spirit of the 1960s, with a timeless and elegant design, high-quality craftsmanship, and an authentic Fender sound.

It features an alder body with a lacquer finish, a single Pure Vintage ’63 split-coil P Bass pickup, a thick “1963 C”-shaped neck profile, and a 9.5″-radius fingerboard, providing a comfortable playing experience. Along with vintage-style hardware, it comes with a vintage-style hardshell case for protection and storage.

Key Benefits

• Authentic Fender Sound: Pure Vintage ’63 pickups reproduce the authentic Fender sound that made the Precision Bass famous.
• Unique and Personal Aesthetic: Nitrocellulose lacquer finish enhances the bass’s tonal character and ages in a unique, personal way.
• Vintage-Inspired Design: Vintage-accurate body and neck designs, as well as vintage-correct hardware, provide an authentic vintage look and feel.
• Comfortable Playing Experience: “C”-shaped neck profile and a 9.5″-radius fingerboard offer remarkable comfort and versatility for any playing style.

Pricing

The Fender American Original ’60s Precision Bass is a premium instrument, reflecting its vintage-inspired design, high-quality components, and the prestige of the Fender brand.

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Pros & Cons

From a personal perspective, the Fender American Original ’60s Precision Bass pays a fine tribute to the instruments that made a significant impact in the ’60s. Its vintage-style design and construction, with a solid alder body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard, make it a delight to behold. Offered in three classic finishes: Olympic White, 3-Color Sunburst, and Lake Placid Blue, the aesthetic appeal is undeniable.

The vintage-style split-coil pickup is a standout feature, delivering a warm and punchy sound with ample low-end definition. The single volume and tone knob provide easy sound adjustment, making it a versatile instrument capable of catering to a wide range of musical styles.

The “C”-shaped neck and 20-fret rosewood fingerboard ensure smooth and comfortable playing. This bass has a balanced weight, allowing for extended play sessions without discomfort. The vintage-style bridge ensures solid intonation and sustain and the tuning machines keep the bass in tune, adding to the overall playing experience.

However, it’s worth noting that despite the vintage appeal, the Fender American Original ’60s Precision Bass lacks some of the practical improvements made by Fender over time. For example, it doesn’t have the modern advancements found in the American Professional II Precision Bass, which make it a more comfortable and reliable instrument. Therefore, while it’s a fantastic option for those seeking a vintage-style bass, it might not be the most practical choice for someone looking for a workhorse instrument for regular gigging.

 

Fender American Performer Precision Bass

Overview

The Fender American Performer Precision Bass is an updated version of the renowned P bass design, maintaining its versatile sound while introducing modern enhancements. Made in Corona, California, the instrument carries novel player-oriented features and offers an exciting playability.

The hybrid neck design, embodying both P and J bass neck elements, contributes to a comfortable playing experience, while the Yosemite pickups, made from Alnico-5 magnets and shellac dipped, help augment the bass’s tonal characteristics. Available in a variety of colors, including arctic-white poly finish, three-tone burst, and Lake Placid blue, the bass offers not only sound but also aesthetic versatility.

Key Benefits

• Hybrid neck design for a comfortable playing experience
• Arctic-white poly finish with other color options available
• Lightweight feel, with a belly scoop and light alder body
• Yosemite design pickups with alnico-5 magnets and shellac dipping
• Separate volume knobs and a Greasebucket tone-circuit knob for precise tonal shaping
• Ideal for a wide range of musical styles and offers excellent playability
• Enhances sustain and tuning stability with medium-jumbo frets and a four-saddle bridge

Pricing

The Fender American Performer Precision Bass is an investment that delivers quality that surpasses its price tag. While it may be on the expensive side for some, the bass’s features and performance offer substantial value for the price, making it a preferred choice amongst professional bass players.

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Pros & Cons

The Fender American Performer Precision Bass is a versatile instrument that can cater to a broad range of musical styles. It balances the thickness of a P bass with the easy access of a Jazz bass, contributing to an enjoyable playing experience. The P bass pickup provides a warm and deep tone, with a vintage feel, while the Jazz bass pickup adds definition and complexity, especially when used in the bridge position.

The bass is built to endure, making it a reliable choice for touring or long-term use. The quality of this instrument extends beyond just its sound—its construction is robust and stable, and it feels comfortable to play. The satin-finished modern C-shaped neck and the Greasebucket tone circuit, which allows cutting treble without losing gain or muddying the sound, only add to its playability.

On the other hand, there are some minor setup issues that bassists should anticipate. The controls have a limited range which might restrict some players, and the string action may require some adjustments. Despite these small hurdles, the Fender American Performer Precision Bass promises to deliver a dynamic performance, making it a sound investment for ambitious bassists.

 

Fender Player Precision Bass

Overview

The Fender Player Precision Bass is a highly regarded instrument known for its reliability, versatility, and the iconic P-Bass sound it delivers. Part of the Player Series, it offers high-quality instruments at an affordable price point.

The bass features a solid alder body, a maple fingerboard for a smooth and comfortable playing experience, and a buttercream finish for a touch of vintage aesthetic. Equipped with a split single-coil pickup, the bass offers a wide range of tonal options and is well-constructed and well-balanced, making it suitable for both long gigs and studio sessions.

Key Benefits

• Solid, reliable and versatile
• Offers a wide range of tonal options
• Features a smooth and comfortable maple fingerboard
• Equipped with a split single-coil pickup for the classic P-Bass tone
• Excellent build quality with attention to detail and craftsmanship
• Comfortable and well-balanced for long playing sessions
• Stylish buttercream finish adds a touch of vintage aesthetic

Pricing

The Fender Player Precision Bass is part of the Player Series, designed to offer high-quality instruments at an affordable price. It offers great value for the price, combining high-quality craftsmanship with affordability.

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Pros & Cons

The Fender Player Precision Bass shines with its solid, no-frills design. It boasts a reliable and versatile output, suitable for a wide range of musical genres. The classic P-Bass tone, delivered by the split single-coil pickup, is a stand-out feature that is loved by many.

Interestingly, the bass offers a wide range of tonal options, allowing for customization of the sound to suit individual playing styles. The build quality is impressive, with excellent attention to detail and craftsmanship evident.

When it comes to playability, the Fender Player Precision Bass is well-balanced and comfortable to play, making it ideal for extended playing sessions. Plus, the buttercream finish adds a pleasing vintage aesthetic to the instrument.

However, like any product, the Fender Player Precision Bass does not come without its drawbacks. Major points of concern include the potential for materials that can cause cancer and reproductive harm. Also, while the bass is part of an affordable series, some players might still find the cost prohibitive.

All in all, the Fender Player Precision Bass is a reliable and versatile instrument that delivers the iconic P-Bass sound. It offers excellent value for its price and is suitable for both beginners and experienced players alike. However, potential health concerns regarding the materials used should be taken into account when considering this bass.

 

Fender Deluxe Active Precision Bass Special

Overview

The Fender Deluxe Active Precision Bass Special is a bass guitar that is both versatile and powerful, offering a wide range of tones and features. Hailing from the renowned Fender brand, it traces its lineage back to the early 1970s when Leo Fender first started mass-producing the Fender Precision Bass.

The guitar is known for its classic design featuring an Alder body, nickel chrome hardware, black pickup covers, a 3-ply B/W/B pickguard, and Pearloid inlays. Available in Olympic White, Surf Pearl, and Sunburst color schemes, this bass guitar stands out for its aesthetic appeal, excellent build quality, and its ability to produce bright tones.

Key Benefits

• Versatility with a wide range of tones and customization options
• Classic design with an Alder body, nickel chrome hardware, black pickup covers, a 3-ply B/W/B pickguard, and Pearloid inlays
• Comfortable “C”-shaped maple neck and fast-playing 12”-radius fingerboard with 20 medium jumbo frets
• PJ pickup configuration, including a Vintage Split Single-Coil Precision Bass pickup in the middle
• Dual-Coil Ceramic Noiseless Jazz Bass pickup in the bridge
• Three-band EQ and a switch for toggling between active and passive settings
• High build quality with a reinforced truss rod and chrome finishing

Pricing

The Fender Deluxe Precision Bass Special is priced in the upper-middle bracket, making it suitable for experienced players and beginners willing to invest in a quality instrument.

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Pros & Cons

The Fender Deluxe Active Precision Bass Special is a versatile instrument offering a wide range of tones and features. It boasts an active electronics system, which includes a three-band EQ and a slap switch, allowing players to shape their tone and dial in the perfect amount of punch and presence. The PJ pickup configuration provides a balanced and versatile sound, with the ability to switch between classic Precision Bass tones and more modern, aggressive sounds.

The bass has a comfortable and playable neck, with a modern “C” shape and a 12″ radius fingerboard. The neck is made from maple, which adds brightness and clarity to the tone. The alder body balances and resonates the tone, delivering a good amount of sustain. The HiMass bridge further adds sustain and stability to the instrument and is adjustable for fine-tuning the action and intonation.

However, the price of the Deluxe Precision Bass Special may be a drawback for some, as it is not an entry-level instrument. Additionally, the portability of the guitar may also be a consideration, as it is not the most accessible instrument to transport.

 

Squier Classic Vibe 60s Precision Bass

Overview

The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Precision Bass is a tribute to the iconic Precision Bass models from the 1960s. Crafted with 100% design by Fender, this instrument captures the essence of that era with its style and sound.

The body of the bass is constructed from poplar, giving it a rich resonance and depth. The neck is made from maple and has a comfortable “C” shape, making it easily playable. The bass features a Fender-Designed alnico split single-coil pickup, which delivers a punchy midrange and powerful lows. The bass is finished off with a vintage-tint gloss neck finish, adding to its classic appeal.

Key Benefits

• Authentic Fender design and tone
• Quality construction with a poplar body and maple neck
• Fender-Designed alnico split single-coil pickup
• Comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile
• Vintage-tint gloss neck finish
• Versatility in sound, suitable for various genres

Pricing

The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Precision Bass is a budget-friendly bass guitar, offering a premium sound and feel at a fraction of the cost.

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Pros & Cons

In my view, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Precision Bass captures the essence of a vintage bass instrument beautifully. The poplar body and maple neck offer a sturdy and reliable build. The vintage-tint gloss finish further adds to the instrument’s classic appeal.

The comfortable “C” shaped neck is a delight to play, and the action can be easily adjusted to suit personal preference. The Fender-Designed split pickup delivers a punchy midrange and powerful lows, replicating the authentic P-bass tone wonderfully.

However, the bass is not without its shortcomings. Some might find the need to make some modifications to better suit their specific needs, such as changing the pickup or upgrading the bridge. Moreover, while the bass does offer a variety of tones, some might find the single coil setup limiting in terms of tonal versatility.

Overall, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Precision Bass provides excellent value for money, and stands out as a high-quality, budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Fender Precision Bass. Its vintage aesthetic and sound make it an appealing choice for those wishing to capture the iconic 60s P-Bass vibe.

 

Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass

Overview

The Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass is an exceptional bass guitar that stands as one of the premier products under the Fender brand. It is part of Fender’s American Vintage II series, a line that is revered for its accurate recreations of classic designs with period-accurate bodies, necks, and hardware.

This specific model underwent significant changes in the late ’50s to early ’60s, including the introduction of a Strat-style headstock shape, comfort-contours, pickguard-mounted electronics, and a 4-saddle bridge. It is hailed for its iconic Precision Bass sound and exceptional playability, making it a sought after instrument among bass enthusiasts.

Key Benefits

• Unique low-mid-heavy sound that is characteristic of the P bass configuration.
• High-quality build with a premium alder body and a hard rock maple neck.
• Gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish that enhances the instrument’s true tonal character.
• Pure Vintage ’60 Split-Coil P-Bass pickup that is meticulously voiced for authenticity.
• Vintage-style hardware that is designed to look, sound, and function like the originals.

Pricing

The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass comes with a price tag of $2,199.99. This price reflects the high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail that is synonymous with the Fender brand.

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Pros & Cons

From my perspective, the Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass exudes a high level of craftsmanship and quality. It is noticeably captivating with its 3-Color Sunburst finish and 4-ply tortoiseshell pickguard, giving it a vintage aesthetic that I personally admire.

One of the standout features is its unique low-mid-heavy sound which is distinct to the P bass configuration. This unique sound, coupled with the Pure Vintage ’60 Split-Coil P-Bass pickup, can give the bass a classic P bass sound that has been a staple in rock music since its introduction.

The quality of the materials used in the bass is also commendable. The premium alder body provides a well-balanced tone with beefy mids and a robust low-end. Additionally, the neck features a vintage 1960 “C” shape, offering a comfortable playing feel reminiscent of vintage instruments.

One area that could be a point of contention for some may be the vintage-style hardware. While it adds to the vintage aesthetic, it might not be as durable or reliable as more modern options. However, it does function just like the originals, which could be appealing to those who appreciate an authentic vintage experience.

Overall, the Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass delivers a classic P bass sound with exceptional playability and craftsmanship. It’s a versatile instrument that can fit right into various musical genres, making it a great choice for those looking to add a P bass to their collection.

 

Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass

Overview

The Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass is a vintage-inspired bass guitar that captures the classic aesthetics and sound of a vintage Precision Bass.

It is built with attention to detail, featuring a red body with a honey gloss maple neck and fingerboard, gold anodized scratchplate, and chrome hardware. This model offers a comfortable playing experience, thanks to its vintage C-shaped neck profile and low-profile frets. It’s equipped with a vintage-style ’50s split-coil pickup, which promises the classic P-Bass thump and plumminess.

Key Benefits

• Vintage-inspired design
• Solid build quality with rounded body lines
• Vintage C-shaped neck profile and low-profile frets
• Equipped with a vintage-style ’50s split-coil pickup
• Chrome hardware that operates smoothly
• Resonant and warm tone with noticeable sustain
• Suitable for both pick players and fingerstyle players

Pricing

The Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass is recognized for offering great value for its affordable price. It is a worthy option for those looking for a vintage-inspired bass that doesn’t break the bank.

See Current Guitar Center Pricing Here

Pros & Cons

The Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass possesses a certain allure with its punchy low-end sound and the way it carries the low frequencies. This characteristic is what makes it a reliable choice for any musician; it fills up the low end on gigs beautifully and articulates well with a heavier attack.

On the construction side, the bass features a Nash body with a vintage blonde finish, a 1-ply anodized pickguard, and a vintage-style ’50s Precision Bass pickup. The standard volume and tone controls and the inch and 3/4 nut width, which provides wider string spacing, all contribute to a comfortable playing experience.

However, this bass might not be the best fit for everyone. The 7.25″ radius on the neck can make bending notes a bit tougher. This, along with its passive pickup design, might not be ideal for slappers and tappers.

Yet, its simplicity is one of its advantages, making it a familiar and comfortable playing experience. Despite not offering any groundbreaking features, it delivers on the classic P-Bass sound and feel. This bass has a great vintage look and feel, reminiscent of the ’50s and ’60s era of music, a time when music was loud and raw, and this is something that the bass actively promotes.

In short, the Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass is a solid performer that captures the vintage look and sound of a classic Precision Bass. It’s a fantastic instrument that feels and sounds like a much more expensive bass.

Should I get a Precision Bass or Jazz Bass?

Deciding between a Precision Bass and a Jazz Bass can be tough, mainly because both are iconic and have had a big influence in the bass guitar world. But, there are key differences between the two that can help you make your decision, based on what you like and how you play.

The Precision Bass is known for its split coil pickup, a wider neck, a symmetrical body design, and a simpler control setup, which gives it a warm, fat tone. The Jazz Bass, however, has two single coil pickups, a slimmer neck, an offset body design, and more controls, giving it a brighter, more versatile tone.

Your final decision on whether to go for a Precision Bass or a Jazz Bass should be influenced by these unique features. It’s a good idea to try out both instruments yourself to see which one feels and sounds better to you. After all, the best bass guitar for you is the one that lets you express your musicality most effectively.

So, when you’re asking yourself, “Should I get a Precision Bass or Jazz Bass?” think about what feels comfortable to you, the kind of music you want to play, and the tone you’re aiming for. Keep in mind, both these basses have been used across various music genres and have proven themselves as classic instruments over time.

Why Choose A Fender Precision Bass

A Fender Precision Bass isn’t just a musical instrument. It’s a piece of history that’s shaped popular music for over seven decades. Launched in 1951, the Precision Bass was the first electric bass to gain widespread recognition and use, bringing a new level of sound and convenience to musicians like you. It quickly replaced the bulky, hard-to-amplify upright bass in many music groups, marking a revolutionary step in the evolution of bass guitars.

The Precision Bass is known for its distinctive sound, legendary playability, and sturdy construction. It boasts a unique design with a slab ash body, two horns for balance, a 20-fret maple neck, and a single pickup. This bass has a scale length of 34 inches, a detail carefully chosen by Leo Fender after much experimentation. Today, you’ll find many different models of Precision Bass to suit your needs, from budget-friendly options to specialty models with five strings and humbucking pickups, as well as high-end boutique models, and vintage and modern versions.

Choosing a Fender Precision Bass isn’t just about buying a bass guitar; it’s about committing to quality, history, and a specific sonic character. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, the Precision Bass is worth considering for its iconic sound, ease of playability, and proven reliability. Keep in mind, the choice between the Precision Bass and other bass guitars ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of look, feel, and sound. So, it’s a good idea to try out both models at a local music retailer to determine which one feels like the best fit for you.

Finding Your Perfect Precision: Which Fender Bass Is Your Ideal Match?

In the world of bass guitars, the Fender Precision Bass reigns supreme due to its unmatched sound quality, durability, and historical significance. As we’ve discussed, the Fender Precision Bass guitar comes in a variety of models, each with its own unique features and attributes, appealing to different kinds of bassists with varying preferences and budgets.

Whether you’re drawn to the classic tones of the American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass, the modern enhancements of the American Performer Precision Bass, or the affordable yet quality-driven designs of the Player Series, there’s a Fender Precision Bass model that’s just right for you.

Remember, choosing a bass guitar is a highly personal decision, influenced by factors like your preferred playing style, genre of music, and budget, among others. That’s why we recommend trying out these bass guitars at your local Fender store or trusted music retail outlets to get a first-hand feel of their playability, sound, and comfort.

When you’re looking for a powerful, punchy, midrange-heavy tone, and an overall comfortable playing experience, a Fender Precision Bass guitar is a reliable companion. No matter which model you choose within the Precision Bass range, Fender’s legacy of exceptional quality and craftsmanship ensures that you’re making a sound investment in your musical journey.

So, happy strumming and make every note count with your perfect Precision Bass!