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Fender Precision Bass

The Fender Precision Bass, commonly known as the P-Bass, is the world's first commercially successful mass-produced electric bass guitar, introduced in October 1951 by Leo Fender as a revolutionary alternative to the cumbersome upright double bass.^[1]^[2] Featuring a solid slab ash body, a bolt-on maple neck with a 34-inch scale length, a fretted rosewood or maple fingerboard, and an innovative single-coil pickup positioned near the bridge for precise intonation and amplified output, it allowed bassists to play with greater accuracy, volume, and portability while maintaining a punchy, defined tone.^[1]^[3] This design not only addressed the limitations of acoustic basses in amplified band settings but also laid the foundation for modern electric bass playing across genres.^[2] Developed amid the post-World War II boom in American music, the Precision Bass debuted alongside Fender's Telecaster guitar and quickly gained traction in country, jazz, and early rock scenes, with its initial blonde finish and minimalist controls (volume and tone knobs) emphasizing simplicity and reliability.^[3] By 1954, refinements included a contoured body for improved ergonomics and the option for a sunburst finish, enhancing its appeal to touring musicians.^[1] A major evolution came in 1957 with the adoption of a split-coil humbucking pickup, a larger headstock inspired by the Stratocaster, and a four-saddle bridge for better string intonation, which reduced electrical hum and enriched the instrument's warm, growling low-end response.^[3]^[2] These updates solidified its role as an industry standard, influencing subsequent models like the 1960 Jazz Bass while preserving the P-Bass's iconic slab-like profile and versatile sound.^[1] The Precision Bass's cultural significance is profound, as it transformed bass performance from a background role to a driving force in popular music, underpinning hits in rock 'n' roll (e.g., Elvis Presley's 1957 "Jailhouse Rock"), Motown soul (James Jamerson's Motown sessions), surf rock, punk (The Ramones' Dee Dee Ramone), and progressive rock (Pink Floyd's Roger Waters).^[2]^[1] Session legends like Carol Kaye of the Wrecking Crew and enduring artists such as Sting and Flea have championed its enduring design, which continues to evolve with modern variants including active electronics, five-string configurations, and lightweight bodies introduced from the 1980s onward.^[2]^[3] Over seven decades later, the P-Bass remains a bestseller, symbolizing Fender's innovation and the backbone of rhythm sections worldwide.^[1]

History and Development

Origins and Introduction

The Fender Precision Bass was developed by Leo Fender as the first mass-produced electric bass guitar, motivated by the demand for a louder, more portable instrument to replace the cumbersome upright bass in amplified band settings where audibility was a persistent challenge.^[1] Fender, building on his success with the Telecaster electric guitar, sought to create a fretted bass that allowed for precise intonation and easier playability while delivering sufficient volume through amplification.^[2] The initial design drew direct inspiration from the Telecaster, incorporating a slab-style ash body with two symmetrical horns for balanced weight distribution, a bolt-on one-piece maple neck, and a single-coil pickup positioned near the bridge to emphasize punchy low-end tones.^[1]^[3] The 1951 model featured a 34-inch scale length for optimal string tension and playability, a 20-fret maple fingerboard, volume and tone controls, Kluson tuners, and a string-through-body bridge with a built-in mute pad to mimic the damped sustain of an upright bass.^[2] Introduced in late 1951 with the first production units completed in October, the Precision Bass carried a list price of $169.50 for the instrument alone or $189.50 including a hardshell case, and early examples bore serial numbers in the range of 161 to 357 stamped on the bridge plate.^[4] Despite its innovative features, the instrument faced early adoption hurdles, including skepticism from traditional upright bass players who doubted its tonal authenticity and reliability in professional contexts.^[2] However, endorsements from pioneering musicians like Roy Johnson, the first bassist to perform with it in Lionel Hampton's big band, and subsequent adopter William "Monk" Montgomery helped validate its potential, paving the way for broader acceptance among jazz and rhythm-and-blues ensembles.^[1]

Evolution and Key Milestones

The Fender Precision Bass underwent significant refinements in the 1950s and 1960s to enhance tone, playability, and manufacturing efficiency. In 1954, Fender introduced an alder body option and contoured body, replacing the original ash for a warmer, more resonant tone while maintaining the instrument's slab-like design.^[3] By 1957, the model featured a redesigned split-coil pickup with a humbucking configuration to reduce noise and improve clarity, alongside an updated headstock shape.^[1] In 1958, rosewood fretboards became standard, offering a smoother feel and brighter articulation compared to the maple boards of earlier models.^[3] During the 1970s, under CBS ownership, production changes emphasized durability and innovation. The three-bolt neck joint was adopted in 1971, simplifying assembly and providing greater neck stability over the previous four-bolt design.^[1] Experimental active electronics appeared in limited runs, boosting output for louder performances.^[3] The 1980s and 1990s marked Fender's revival post-CBS, with a focus on blending vintage aesthetics with modern reliability. In 1982, the company reintroduced vintage specifications through reissue models like the '57 and '62 Precision Bass, recreating classic tones for collectors and performers.^[1] The short-lived Precision Bass Special, produced from 1980 to 1983, incorporated a PJ pickup configuration and active preamp for a more versatile, aggressive sound.^[1]^[3] The American Standard series launched in 1986, featuring a graphite-reinforced neck for enhanced tuning stability and bi-flex truss rod adjustments.^[3] In the 2000s and 2010s, updates prioritized noise reduction and material innovations. The American Deluxe series debuted in 2000 with noiseless split-coil pickups that eliminated hum while preserving the traditional P-Bass voice, alongside active/passive switching options.^[3] The American Special model arrived in 2011, incorporating a roasted maple neck for improved stability and a vintage-tinted finish, aimed at budget-conscious players seeking premium features.^[3] The 2020s have seen continued evolution toward versatility and accessibility. The American Ultra Precision Bass, introduced in 2020, added S-1 switching in the pickup for coil-splitting and tone voicing options, paired with a modern sculpted neck heel.^[3] In 2021, the Player Plus series expanded the lineup with rolled fingerboard edges and Noiseless pickups for enhanced comfort and clarity.^[1] Most recently, in January 2025, Fender launched the Standard Series Precision Bass, produced in Indonesia to offer an affordable entry point at around $599 while upholding core design principles.^[5]

Design and Features

Construction and Body Styles

The Fender Precision Bass features a solid-body construction designed for durability and tonal resonance, with the original 1951 model utilizing a slab ash body that lacked contours for a straightforward, guitar-like form. This ash construction provided a bright, articulate tone and was finished in a natural blonde hue. By 1954, the body evolved to a contoured design inspired by the Stratocaster, transitioning primarily to alder for improved comfort and sustain, though ash remained an option in some production runs. In the Custom Shop's modern reissues and limited editions, ash bodies have been reintroduced for their classic aesthetic and sonic clarity, often paired with premium select woods.^[1]^[1]^[6] The neck is bolt-on, constructed from maple for stability and snap, with the early 1951-1958 models featuring a one-piece maple design and a distinctive "skunk stripe"—a dark stripe on the back from routing the truss rod channel and filling it with ebony or phenolic material. Post-1958, the truss rod routing shifted to the front under the fretboard, eliminating the stripe in favor of rosewood or maple overlays, while one-piece maple necks continued as an option for brighter tone. In the 2010s, roasted maple necks were introduced across professional series models, heat-treated for enhanced stability against humidity changes and a smoother, aged appearance without finish.^[1]^[7] A consistent 34-inch scale length defines the Precision Bass, offering a balanced string tension ideal for fretted play across its 20- or 22-fret neck. Fretboards traditionally used maple for early models or rosewood for warmer response until 2017, when CITES regulations on rosewood prompted a switch to pau ferro, a sustainable alternative with similar density and feel.^[1] Finishes began with nitrocellulose lacquer on the 1951 ash bodies for a thin, resonant coat, evolving to polyester in the 1970s for greater durability, though nitro remains standard on vintage reissues. Color options started with blonde or black in 1951, expanding in 1954 to two-tone sunburst and Olympic White, which became staples alongside natural ash finishes; contemporary models include vibrant hues like Tidepool, introduced in the Player series for a modern iridescent effect.^[8]^[3] Hardware emphasizes reliability, with the original 1951 bridge featuring string-through-body design for increased sustain, using two pressed fiber saddles and a mute. In 1957, it shifted to a top-loading bridge with individual threaded steel saddles for precise intonation and height adjustment. Tuners progressed from vintage Kluson-style machines to locking variants in professional models like the American Professional II, ensuring superior tuning stability.^[1]^[1]^[9]

Pickups, Electronics, and Controls

The Fender Precision Bass features a signature split-coil humbucking pickup that provides hum cancellation through its dual-coil design with adjustable pole pieces, originally introduced in 1957 to replace the single-coil pickup of the 1951 model and deliver a punchier midrange tone with enhanced output.^[1]^[2] This pickup typically employs Alnico 5 magnets for focused dynamics and warm vintage character, though some variants use ceramic magnets for brighter, higher-output response suitable for modern rock and metal applications.^[10] Over time, pickup designs have evolved to refine tonal clarity and versatility; for instance, the V-Mod II split-coil pickup, introduced in the 2020 American Professional II series, blends Alnico II and V magnets with overwound coils to balance vintage warmth with increased articulation and low-end definition, maintaining the instrument's classic punch while reducing muddiness in dense mixes.^[11] Many contemporary models integrate a HiMass bridge, constructed from cold-rolled steel with brass or zinc saddles, which enhances sustain and resonance by improving string-to-body energy transfer without altering the core tone.^[12] Standard control layouts on passive Precision Basses consist of a master volume knob and a single tone knob, allowing basic adjustment of overall output and high-frequency roll-off to shape the instrument's inherent growl.^[1] Active-equipped variants, such as those in the Player Plus and American Ultra series, incorporate an 18-volt preamp with 3-band EQ (bass, mid, treble boost/cut) for precise tonal sculpting, often including a mini-toggle for active/passive switching to bypass the preamp and access raw pickup signal.^[13] Higher-end models like the American Ultra II add S-1 switching on the volume control for coil-splitting, enabling single-coil modes that expand versatility from thick humbucking tones to brighter, Jazz Bass-like snap.^[14] The Precision Bass's tone profile emphasizes a fundamental low-end thump from its split-coil design, providing authoritative presence in rhythm sections, while overdriven settings reveal a gritty midrange growl ideal for rock and funk.^[2] Passive configurations deliver moderate output levels with organic warmth, whereas active 18-volt electronics boost signal strength for greater headroom and clarity, often up to 9dB of gain without unwanted noise.^[13] Wiring schemes prioritize noise reduction through shielded cavities and direct grounding from the bridge to the output jack's ground lug, ensuring clean signal paths in both passive and active setups.^[1] Active models include dedicated battery compartments, typically housing a 9-volt or 18-volt power source in the control cavity, to power the preamp circuitry reliably during performance.^[13]

Models and Variants

Standard and Professional Series

The Standard and Professional Series represents Fender's core lineup of high-end Precision Bass models, emphasizing premium craftsmanship, modern playability enhancements, and classic tone for professional and serious amateur players. These series, produced primarily in the United States and Mexico, incorporate refined neck profiles, upgraded pickups, and ergonomic features while maintaining the iconic slab body design and split-coil pickup configuration that define the Precision Bass. The American Professional II Precision Bass, introduced in 2020 and continuing into the present, features a single V-Mod II split-coil Precision Bass pickup designed for balanced, vintage-inspired tone with enhanced clarity and reduced hum. It includes a '63 Precision Bass neck profile—measuring approximately 0.850 inches at the first fret and 0.920 inches at the twelfth—for comfortable playability, paired with rolled fingerboard edges on a 9.5-inch radius maple or rosewood board with 20 narrow-tall frets. The instrument is built in the USA with an alder body, bone nut, and HiMass Vintage bridge, offering a familiar yet refined feel for extended sessions.^[9]^[15]^[16] Building on this foundation, the American Ultra Precision Bass, launched in 2019, and the American Ultra II, announced in 2024 with availability in 2025, introduce more contemporary innovations for high-performance applications. These USA-made basses employ Noiseless split-coil pickups to deliver classic P-Bass warmth without single-coil interference, a sculpted neck heel for improved upper-fret access, and locking tuners for stable tuning during aggressive play. The Modern D neck profile, with rolled edges and a 10-14-inch compound radius fingerboard featuring 22 medium-jumbo frets, enhances speed and ergonomics on a quartersawn maple neck and alder body; retail pricing hovers around $2,000 to $2,200 depending on finish and configuration.^[17]^[18]^[19]^[20] The Player Series Precision Bass, available since 2018 and updated as the Player II in 2024, serves as an accessible yet professional-grade option with Mexico-based production. It utilizes an alder body for resonant tone, Classic P-series or Alnico V split-coil pickups for vintage-voiced punch, and a synthetic bone nut on a Modern C neck with 9.5-inch radius maple or rosewood fingerboard and 20 medium-jumbo frets. Limited editions in 2024, such as the Sparkle 3-Color Sunburst and Shell Pink variants, introduce unique glossy finishes while retaining the series' adjustable four-saddle bridge and contoured body for stage-ready reliability.^[21]^[22]^[23]^[24] For players seeking retro authenticity, the Vintera II Series, released in 2023, recreates era-specific Precision Bass designs with meticulous period details. The '60s model mimics 1960s specifications using a rosewood fingerboard, vintage '64 split-coil pickup, and 7.25-inch radius with 20 vintage-tall frets on a maple neck, while the '70s variant incorporates block inlays, a slab rosewood board, and period-correct polyurethane finish over an alder body to evoke the warmer, bolder tones of that decade. These Mexico-produced instruments feature vintage-style hardware, including a four-saddle bridge, prioritizing historical accuracy over modern ergonomics.^[25]^[26]^[27]^[28] Complementing these lines, Fender introduced the Standard Series in 2025 as an entry-level professional model built in Indonesia, priced at approximately $600 to broaden access to quality Precision Bass construction. This series retains core elements like an alder body, split-coil pickup, and 34-inch scale maple neck with 20 frets, but emphasizes cost-effective manufacturing without compromising the instrument's foundational playability and tone.^[29]^[30]

Active Electronics and Modern Updates

The introduction of active electronics to the Precision Bass began in the early 1980s with the Elite series, which featured onboard preamps for enhanced signal processing and tonal control.^[1] This innovation marked a shift toward greater versatility, allowing bassists to shape their sound more precisely on stage or in the studio. By the late 1990s, active circuitry became more widespread in the American Deluxe Precision Bass, introduced in 1998, which included a 3-band active EQ for treble, midrange, and bass adjustments, along with a pan pot for blending between Precision and Jazz Bass pickups in PJ configurations.^[31] Modern active Precision Bass models continue to build on this foundation, offering advanced features for expanded tonal options. The American Ultra Precision Bass, launched in 2019, incorporates an 18-volt preamp with an active/passive switch and Ultra Noiseless Vintage pickups, enabling seamless transitions between powered EQ shaping and traditional passive warmth.^[17] Similarly, the 2021 Player Plus Active Precision Bass features a 3-band active EQ with an active/passive toggle, providing precise tone sculpting while maintaining the instrument's signature punch and growl through Noiseless pickups and a PJ configuration.^[13] Announced in 2024 with 2025 availability, the American Ultra II Precision Bass updated this lineup with S-1 switching for active/passive operation and a 3-band active EQ featuring switchable midrange frequencies, further refining versatility for contemporary players.^[18]^[20] These active systems deliver notable sound enhancements, including reduced electrical hum via hum-canceling Noiseless pickups and broader frequency response for deeper low-end extension, supporting integration with effects pedals through a hotter, more consistent output signal.^[14] In the Fender Custom Shop, customization options extend to modular preamp upgrades, allowing players to incorporate active electronics tailored to specific needs, such as enhanced EQ or blend controls in limited-edition models.

Extended Range and Specialty Variants

The Fender Precision Bass has seen the development of extended-range variants to accommodate diverse playing styles and musical genres, beginning with the introduction of 5-string models in the late 1990s. The American Deluxe Precision Bass V, launched in 1999, marked the first production 5-string version of the Precision Bass, featuring an alder or ash body, active electronics, and a 34-inch scale length to provide enhanced low-end response and tension on the added B string.^[1] This model evolved into the American Standard Precision Bass V from 2008 to 2016 and later the American Professional Precision Bass V starting in 2017, incorporating modern updates like V-Mod pickups while retaining the classic split-coil design.^[3] These 5-string configurations allow bassists to access lower registers without sacrificing the punchy tone synonymous with the Precision Bass lineage. Six-string variants of the Precision Bass remain exceptionally rare, primarily offered as custom or limited builds rather than standard production runs. Such models underscore Fender's flexibility in boutique production for specialized needs. Short-scale Precision Bass models address accessibility for younger or smaller-statured players by reducing physical demands while preserving core playability. The Precision Bass Junior, introduced around 2015, employs a 30-inch scale length and lighter string gauges, making it ideal for beginners transitioning to electric bass without compromising the instrument's iconic thump and clarity.^[32] Earlier short-scale efforts, like the 32-inch Standard Precision Bass from 1988 to 1991, laid groundwork for these designs, produced in the U.S., Japan, and Mexico to broaden market reach.^[3] Left-handed Precision Bass instruments have been available since the early 1960s, enabling southpaw players to access the model's ergonomic benefits and tonal profile without adaptation. A preserved 1960 left-handed Precision Bass exemplifies this early support, featuring the original slab-body ash construction and single-coil pickup for authentic vintage response.^[33] Contemporary left-handed options, such as the American Professional II Precision Bass Left-Handed, continue this tradition with rolled fingerboard edges and modern hardware for enhanced comfort.^[34] Specialty and boutique variants from Fender's Custom Shop emphasize relic finishes and historical accuracy for collectors and performers alike. The 2023 Limited Edition 1951 Precision Bass Relic, aged in Nocaster Blonde, replicates the debut model's ash body and U-shaped maple neck with meticulous distressing to evoke mid-century patina, produced in a restricted run for authenticity.^[35] In 2025, the Player Plus series expanded with 5-string active Precision Bass models, incorporating ergonomic body contours, 3-band EQ, and lightweight alder construction tailored for high-volume gigging and extended play sessions.^[13]

Squier and Budget Lines

The Squier brand was launched by Fender in 1982 as an affordable line to offer entry-level versions of classic instruments, protecting the premium Fender name while expanding market reach.^[36] The first Squier Precision Bass model debuted in 1983, featuring imported production from Japan and later Korea, with designs closely mimicking the original Fender specifications but using cost-effective materials and manufacturing.^[36]^[37] Among current Squier series, the Classic Vibe line, produced in Mexico, evokes 1960s and 1970s Precision Bass aesthetics with features like block inlays, vintage-style hardware, and alnico single-coil pickups for a balanced, vintage-inspired tone, typically priced in the $400 range.^[38]^[39] The Affinity series, manufactured in Indonesia, targets beginners with a poplar body for lightweight construction, ceramic split-coil pickups delivering punchy fundamentals, and a slim C-shaped maple neck, available around $250.^[38]^[40] In 2025, the Squier Sonic series continues as a beginner-friendly option with a compact, thin body profile for enhanced comfort, a narrow 1.5-inch nut width, and a setup optimized for easy playability, emphasizing accessibility for new players.^[41]^[42] The Paranormal series introduces offset body shapes that blend traditional Precision Bass elements, such as split-coil pickups and slab bodies, with unconventional contours like those in the Jazz Bass '54 model, offering versatile tone in a sub-$400 package.^[43]^[44] The Debut Series, launched in 2025 exclusively through Amazon, provides ultra-affordable entry-level Precision Bass models for beginners, featuring super-comfortable necks, thin bodies, and easy-play setups priced around $150–$200.^[45] Affinity series variants, including special editions from 2024, incorporate student-focused features like a vintage-tint gloss neck finish on select maple necks for a worn-in feel and improved setup stability, making them ideal for educational use.^[46]^[40] Budget Squier Precision Basses prioritize playability through elements like slim necks and lightweight bodies, often using poplar wood instead of premium alder for resonance at lower cost, and synthetic bone nuts rather than natural bone for durability and affordability, though they may sacrifice some tonal nuance from high-end tonewoods.^[47]^[48]^[42]

Notable Users and Legacy

Influential Bassists and Artists

James Jamerson, a cornerstone of the Motown sound, transitioned from upright bass to the Fender Precision Bass in 1961 after being persuaded by Motown engineer Horace "Chili" Ruth to try the electric instrument during sessions.^[49] His innovative fingerstyle technique and melodic pocket grooves on hits like The Temptations' "My Girl" established the Precision Bass as essential for defining the label's rhythmic foundation in the 1960s.^[50]^[51] Session bassist Carol Kaye further elevated the Precision Bass's versatility through her work on numerous Beach Boys recordings in the 1960s, including the iconic walking line on "Good Vibrations" and the driving foundation of "Wouldn't It Be Nice" from Pet Sounds.^[52]^[53] Playing her Fender Precision Bass through a Fender Super Reverb amplifier, Kaye contributed to the album's sophisticated arrangements, blending jazz-inflected lines with pop sensibilities.^[54] In rock, John Entwistle of The Who wielded early Fender Precision Basses, such as his 1962 model, to craft an aggressive, lead-like tone that pushed the instrument's capabilities, exemplified in the raw energy of "My Generation."^[55]^[56] Sting of The Police incorporated a 1957 Precision Bass reissue into his arsenal, using its punchy split-coil pickup to fuse reggae rhythms with rock on tracks like "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic," enhancing the band's sparse, dynamic sound.^[57]^[58] Modern players continue to adapt the Precision Bass for diverse styles. Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers occasionally employs fretted and fretless custom Precision variants alongside his signature Jazz Basses, adding thumping lows to funk-rock anthems like those on Unlimited Love.^[59]^[60] Pino Palladino delivers subtle, supportive lines on Adele's 21 using a 1962 Precision Bass reissue, its warm tone underscoring soulful tracks like "He Won't Go" with understated elegance.^[61]^[62] In jazz and fusion, Jaco Pastorius incorporated elements of the Precision Bass, such as a Precision neck on a modified Jazz Bass body, into his setup during his career with Weather Report, influencing fretless Precision variants through his harmonic explorations.^[63] Into the 2020s, artists like Victoria Legrand of Beach House incorporate bass guitar into live performances and songwriting, complementing the band's dream-pop textures with grounded low-end.^[64] Recent Fender releases, such as the 2025 Standard Series Precision Bass, reflect the instrument's ongoing appeal in contemporary music. In 2025, Fender introduced the Standard Series Precision Bass as part of its new affordable lineup, featuring alder bodies, maple necks, and classic split-coil pickups for enhanced accessibility.^[65]

Cultural Impact and Innovations

The Fender Precision Bass played a pivotal role in establishing the electric bass as a cornerstone of rock 'n' roll, supplanting the upright bass in live and studio settings during the 1950s and enabling more dynamic, amplified performances that defined the genre's sound.^[66] Its introduction marked a turning point by allowing bassists to maintain rhythmic drive and tonal presence in louder ensembles, influencing early recordings that blended country, blues, and rhythm and blues into the rock idiom.^[67] In Motown's polished productions, the instrument's split-coil pickup delivered the tight, groovy low-end essential to the label's hits, as heard in tracks emulating the era's signature bass style.^[68] The Precision Bass's versatile tone also permeated punk rock, where its raw, punchy output suited the genre's aggressive simplicity, and extended into hip-hop through sampled bass lines that echoed its foundational rumble in beats and loops.^[1] The Precision Bass's manufacturing innovations, particularly the bolt-on neck design, set new standards for efficiency and accessibility in instrument production, facilitating mass production while simplifying repairs and adjustments compared to set-neck competitors.^[69] This approach lowered costs and increased durability, prompting broader industry adoption; even brands like Gibson and Rickenbacker, traditionally favoring carved bodies and set necks, incorporated bolt-on elements in later models to compete in the growing electric bass market.^[70] The design's emphasis on modular construction influenced the evolution of bass guitars overall, enabling scalable production that democratized access to professional-grade instruments. Numerous designs have imitated or evolved from the Precision Bass's slab body and split pickup configuration, establishing it as a benchmark; the Höfner 500/1 provided a stark contrast with its violin-shaped semi-hollow body for a warmer, acoustic-like tone popular in pop and rock.^[71] Meanwhile, the Music Man StingRay, developed by Leo Fender after leaving his namesake company, advanced the concept with active electronics for enhanced output and EQ control, blending Precision-inspired ergonomics with modern amplification suited to fusion and hard rock.^[72] These rivals and copies underscore the Precision Bass's dominance, establishing it as a preferred style among professional bassists for its reliable, genre-spanning utility. Signature models have further amplified the Precision Bass's legacy, such as the 1998 Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass, which draws from Fender's bolt-on heritage in a hybrid configuration for progressive rock versatility.^[73] The Flea Signature Jazz Bass, released in 2009 with a maple neck for brighter articulation, draws directly from the Precision's bolt-on heritage while adding active preamp options tailored to funk and alternative styles.^[74] The Precision Bass's enduring appeal is evident in its sales trajectory and cultural permeation, with millions of units produced since 1951 and recognition as one of the most imitated electric instruments, sustaining its role across decades of musical evolution.^[3] Affordable Squier variants, mirroring the original's design at entry-level prices, have fueled the home recording surge by enabling hobbyists and producers to capture authentic P-Bass tones in digital workflows without high-end investment.^[75]

References

[1]
Legendary Lows: The Precision Bass Story - Fender
The Precision Bass, first produced in 1951, is a unique instrument with a 34" scale length, a "slab" body, and a single pickup, designed to make a pure sound.The Rundown · The Bass · The 1950s
[2]
History of the Fender Precision Bass - InSync - Sweetwater
Apr 7, 2023 · The 4-string revolution kicked off in 1951 by the P Bass has stood strong for more than 70 years in the famously fickle world of popular music.
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A Timeline of the Fender Precision Bass | Reverb News
Jan 19, 2023 · The Precision Bass of 1951 was the first commercially successful electric bass guitar, and it followed Fender's equally groundbreaking Telecaster guitar.
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How to Date a Fender with Serial Numbers | Reverb News
Jun 18, 2023 · And here are the ranges for the original Precision Basses: 161 to 357, 1951. 299 to 619, 1952. 0001 to 0160, 1952. 0161 to 0470, 1951 - 1952.Four digit serial number on the... · Four or five digit serial number...
[5]
Fender launches $599 Standard Series Indonesia-built range
Jan 23, 2025 · The Indonesian-built Standard series brings the concept of an affordable Fender back to the table – and it's the greatest show of faith yet in its facility.
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Custom Shop Basses - Fender
4.7 80 · $4.99 delivery · 30-day returns... Body Material. 2-Piece Select Alder (9). 2-Piece Select Ash (9). 2-Piece ... Vintage Custom 1951 Precision Bass®-image Vintage Custom 1951 Precision Bass ...Missing: reintroduction | Show results with:reintroduction
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Fender Precision bass timeline, 1950s - Vintage Guitar and Bass
Fender Precision bass chronology, from it's inception in 1951 through to 1959. Vintage advertising, catalog appearances and specifications.
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Finishing School: The Science and Style of Fender Finishes
Fender uses nitrocellulose lacquer, urethane, and polyester finishes. Nitrocellulose was used in the 1950s-60s, urethane in the late 1960s, and polyester in ...Missing: scale | Show results with:scale
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American Professional II Precision Bass - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryThe American Professional II Precision Bass draws from more than sixty years of innovation, inspiration and evolution to meet the demands of today's working ...
[10]
Pure Vintage '62 Precision Bass® Pickups - Fender
An accurate reproduction of the 1962 Precision Bass pickup, this split-coil humbucking pickup delivers powerful bass and clear high ... Alnico 5 magnets for more ...
[11]
American Professional II Precision Bass® V - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryThe '63 P Bass® profile neck now sports smooth rolled fingerboard edges, a "Super-Natural" satin finish and a newly sculpted neck heel for a supremely ...
[12]
Fender® HiMass™ 4-String Bass Bridge Assembly With Brass ...
In stock $4.99 deliveryAdd sustain, resonance and improved attack without significantly altering your tone when you add this precision manufactured HiMass bridge to your 4-string bass ...
[13]
Player Plus Active Precision Bass - Fender
$$679.99 Out of stockThe 18-Volt active preamp offers boost/cut for treble, bass, and mid frequencies for precise tonal shaping. A mini toggle allows the player to switch between ...
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A CLOSER LOOK AT YOUR AMERICAN ULTRA II PRECISION BASS
The American Ultra II Precision Bass is the apex of modern Fender design, performance and craftsmanship. A masterful blend of cutting-edge tech and 150 classic ...Modern ``d'' Shape · Ebony Or Maple Fingerboard · Ultra Ii Active Bass Preamp...
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American Professional II Precision Bass - Mercury with Rosewood ...
In stock Rating 5.0 (16) Fender American Professional II Precision Bass - Mercury with Rosewood Fingerboard ; Neck Material: Maple ; Neck Shape: 1963 C ; Radius: 9.5" ; Fingerboard Material ...
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American Ultra Precision Bass - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryREDESIGNED ACTIVE/PASSIVE PREAMP. Redesigned for the Ultra Noiseless Vintage bass pickups, this 18 volt preamp features sweeter highs, focused mids and more ...Missing: 18V | Show results with:18V
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American Ultra II Precision Bass - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryHardware Finish. Nickel/Chrome. Neck Plate. 5-Bolt. Pickguard. 1-Ply Silver ... Precision Bass® 4-SADDLE ADJUSTABLE HIMASS™ BRIDGE (STRING-. 4-SADDLE ...<|separator|>
[19]
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Rating 5.0 (1) · $4.90 deliveryIts sleek design and modern features, like the HiMass bridge and Noiseless pickups, enhance the classic Fender sound. However, at nearly $2,000, it faces stiff ...
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Player II Precision Bass - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryFeatures · Contoured Alder Body · Modern "C" Neck Profile · 9.5“-Radius Maple or Rosewood Fingerboard with Rolled Edges · Player Series Alnico V Split-Coil ...
[21]
Limited Edition Player II Precision Bass®, Sparkle 3-Color Sunburst
In stock $4.99 deliveryHighlights · ALDER BODY · MODERN "C" NECK PROFILE · 9.5“-RADIUS MAPLE OR ROSEWOOD FINGERBOARD WITH ROLLED EDGES · PLAYER SERIES PICKUPS · ADJUSTABLE 4-SADDLE BRIDGE ...
[22]
Limited Edition Player II Precision Bass®, Shell Pink - Fender
Features · Contoured Alder Body · Modern "C" Neck Profile · 9.5“-Radius Rosewood Fingerboard with Rolled Edges · Pure Vintage '60 Split-Coil Precision Bass® Pickups ...
[23]
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Apr 16, 2025 · The upshot was, the P-Bass got a modern refresh: a Modern “C” neck, 9.5” fingerboard radius, Alnico pickups, synthetic bone nut, and open-gear ...
[24]
Vintera® II '50s Precision Bass - Fender
In stock $4.99 delivery 30-day returnsThe bass has an alder body, maple neck, 7.25" radius fingerboard, late-'50s "C"-shape neck, vintage-style '50s split-coil pickup, and a 4-saddle bridge.
[25]
Fender Vintera II '60s Precision Bass review - Guitar World
Aug 11, 2024 · PRICE: $1,149 · TYPE: 4-string solidbody bass guitar · BODY: Alder · NECK: Maple · FINGERBOARD: Rosewood · SCALE LENGTH: 34" (86.36cm) · FRETS: 20 ...
[26]
Fender Vintera II '50s Precision Bass - Black - Sweetwater
In stock Rating 5.0 (2) Tech Specs · Number of Strings: 4 · Left-/Right-handed: Right-handed · Body Shape: Precision · Body Material: Alder · Body Finish: Gloss Polyester · Color: Black ...
[27]
Fender Launches New $599 Standard Series, Marking A Major Shift ...
Jan 23, 2025 · Fender launches a new $599 Standard Series, bringing iconic guitar designs within reach of more players with Indonesian-made instruments.
[28]
Fender Standard Precision Bass 2025 - Olympic White - Corner Music
In stockFender Standard Precision Bass 2025 - Olympic White. Fender Standard Precision Bass 2025 - Olympic White. Regular price $599.99 USD.
[29]
Fender American Deluxe Precision Bass Translucent Red 1997
Nov 8, 2018 · Introduced as a 1998 model, the Fender American Deluxe Precision Bass featured a number of enhancements to the proven, solid reliability of ...Missing: EQ | Show results with:EQ
[30]
Fender Precision Bass Junior - What To Know & Where To Buy
Rating 4.5 (2) · Free deliveryNov 1, 2025 · The Junior model features a shorter scale, making it more compact and easier to play for those with smaller hands, while still maintaining the ...
[31]
Left Handed 1960 Fender P-Bass, Holy Grail of Lefty Basses!
May 11, 2015 · This one is a monster bass; deep, thunderous, and clean bottom-end. Scott rated this one a 10/10 – this is the Holy Grail of lefty electric basses!
[32]
American Professional II Precision Bass® Left-Hand - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryThe American Pro II Precision Bass Left-Hand delivers instant familiarity and sonic versatility you'll feel and hear right away, with broad ranging improvements ...
[33]
Fender Custom Shop LTD 1951 Precision Bass Relic - Reverb
In stock $165 deliveryAwesome! New 2023 Fender Limited Edition 1951 Precision Bass Relic in Butterscotch finish. Plays and sounds fantastic and is set up with D'addario Chromes ...
[34]
A Brief History of Squier: Origins of Fender MIJ, Budget | Reverb News
Oct 1, 2016 · Squier, originally a string brand, was used by Fender to market budget guitars, including lower-cost versions of Fender models, to protect the ...
[35]
Jv Squier Basses: The Vintage Reissues That Became Legends
Feb 10, 2025 · The JV (Japanese Vintage) Squier series was introduced in 1982 as Fender's response to the booming Japanese copy market. At the time, Japanese ...
[36]
Squier Precision Bass - Fender
4.7 80 · $4.99 deliveryExplore the high quality sound of Squier Precision Bass, offering classic design at an economical price point. Shop with free shipping over $50.Classic Vibe '60s Precision... · Classic Vibe '70s Precision... · Affinity Series
[37]
Squier Classic Vibe '60s Precision Bass Guitar 3-Color Sunburst
In stock Rating 4.5 (14) With a 3-color sunburst or aged white finish, tortoiseshell pickguard and nickel-plated hardware, the Classic Vibe '60s Precision Bass looks as cool as it ...
[38]
Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass Pack, 3-Color Sunburst, Laurel ...
Lightweight and Comfortable: The Squier Affinity Series Precision bass guitar featured in this pack sports a slim C shaped neck profile and a thin 3-color ...
[39]
Squier Sonic® Precision Bass - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryThis P Bass® sports a slim and inviting "C"-shaped neck profile with a narrow 1.5" nut width and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort.
[40]
Squier Sonic Precision Bass - California Blue - Sweetwater
In stock Rating 5.0 (7) The Sonic Precision Bass is plenty reliable and outfitted with durable chrome hardware plus some extra touches like a synthetic bone nut. Without getting deep ...
[41]
Squier Paranormal Series Guitars - Fender
4.7 80 · $4.99 deliveryThe Squier Paranormal series reimagines classic guitar designs with unconventional shapes and innovative features for a fresh take on tradition.Paranormal Rascal™ Bass HH · Paranormal Toronado · Paranormal Super-Sonic
[42]
Fender Squier Paranormal 54 Jazz Bass, 3-Color Sunburst, Maple ...
Jazz Bass tone and playability, 1954 Precision Bass styling; Fender-Designed alnico single-coil pickups; Dual concentric volume and tone controls ...
[43]
Affinity Series® Precision Bass® PJ - Fender
In stock $4.99 deliveryThis bass has a thin, lightweight body, slim "C"-shaped neck, PJ pickup configuration, open-gear tuning machines, and a 4-saddle bass bridge.Missing: 2024 | Show results with:2024
[44]
KA-01944 · Customer Self-Service - Fender Support
Poplar: one of the softer hardwoods, nicely resonant with a meaty tone. Many guitar manufacturers as a substitute for alder are using this wood, as it is quite ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[45]
Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass vs Fender Player Precision Bass ...
Poplar is a cheaper and heavier alternative to Alder wood. It terms of tone ... In this case, both have Synthetic Bone nuts. Bone is the best natural ...
[46]
How James Jamerson Became the Iconic Bass Player for Motown ...
Jun 8, 2020 · Jamerson played double bass on his early Motown sessions, but in 1961 he was persuaded to try a Fender Precision bass by Horace 'Chili' Ruth.<|separator|>
[47]
James Jamerson: inside the Motown master's sound and style
Apr 25, 2024 · Originally published in Bass Player's February 2007 issue, we asked five top low-enders with links to the Motown master to dissect the Jamerson style.
[48]
[PDF] The Temptations - My Girl - Free Bass Transcriptions
My Girl. Bass: James Jamerson. The Temptations - 'The Temptations Sing Smokey' (1965) ? Verse ? Prechorus . ? Chorus . ? Verse 2 ? Prechorus . ? Chorus.
[49]
Carol Kaye's 10 greatest basslines | Guitar World
Mar 24, 2025 · 1. River Deep – Mountain High - Ike & Tina Turner (1966) · 2. Wouldn't It Be Nice - The Beach Boys (1966) · 3. The Beat Goes On - Sonny & Cher ( ...
[50]
Carol Kaye's Legendary Bass Line - Talkingbass.net
Feb 3, 2023 · The bass line was conceived by Beach Boys genius Brian Wilson and played by the legendary Carol Kaye. It's not a difficult bass line to play from a technical ...
[51]
Carol Kaye on how she made Pet Sounds with the Beach Boys
Jan 10, 2025 · Kaye, the first lady of the electric bass, played her P-Bass through a Fender Super Reverb 4x10 combo on the iconic record.
[52]
Find of the Week: John Entwistle's P-Bass | Reverb News
Sep 2, 2022 · Today's Find of the Week is a very special and exceedingly rare 1966 Fender P-Bass that belonged to John Entwistle of The Who.
[53]
1964-1966 | John Entwistle Bass Gear | Whotabs - thewho.net
one of his earliest basses (estimate: £8,000–10,000). See christies.com. 1962 Fender Precision ...
[54]
How Sting's 1953 P-Bass set the tone for this Police classic
Nov 1, 2025 · Sting's bass part is filled with chord inversions, syncopations, and dynamics – all the right stuff for a dynamite bassline.
[55]
Sting | TalkBass.com
Nov 28, 2009 · Sting doesn't play his original '57 Precision bass out any more. (the one a roadie bought for him in a NY pawn shop when asked to find ...How does the Sting Bass differ from P Bass | TalkBass.comAm I crazy for the Sting Precision bass? | Page 3 - TalkBass.comMore results from www.talkbass.com
[56]
For anyone who cares about RHCP and Flea... + the basses he's ...
Oct 6, 2013 · In this video, Flea is seen using a P-bass. He rarely uses one! I think this is pretty cool, and may be the bass he uses for the next album.
[57]
The Legendary Basses Used by Flea of RHCP - Insta of Bass
Dec 7, 2024 · Basses used by Flea: Explore the iconic instruments behind RHCP's legendary bassist and his unforgettable sound.
[58]
Gear Rundown: Pino Palladino - Mixdown Magazine
Mar 12, 2025 · 1961 Fender Precision Bass in Fiesta Red. This guitar is another of Palladino's favourites and also used with flatwound strings. It can be heard ...
[59]
Adele - He Wont Go BASS COVER (Pino Palladino) - YouTube
Mar 14, 2014 · Off of the album "21" by Adele. Pino Palladino at it again! Enjoy, Comment & Subscribe!Missing: '62 P-
[60]
Gear Rundown: Jaco Pastorius - Mixdown Magazine
Sep 10, 2024 · After his double bass became warped from the humidity of his home state of Florida, a 15-year-old Pastorius saved up for months to afford a ...
[61]
Laetitia Sadier in Conversation with Victoria Legrand
Aug 1, 2019 · Like, that's happened to me on guitar, where I'm so sick of the piano or the keyboard, and I'll just pick up a guitar, or a bass guitar, and ...
[62]
Fender on Instagram: "We're excited to announce that @BillieEilish ...
Aug 16, 2021 · We're excited to announce that @BillieEilish and @FINNEAS have partnered with The Fender Play Foundation to help extend our youth music education program.
[63]
Precision Bass: Rock 'n' Roll's Instrumental Soul - HistoryNet
May 20, 2019 · Fender most truly innovated in creating the Precision Bass, which in rock 'n' roll settings quickly supplanted the upright bass.
[64]
How did the bass guitar come to be one of the most popular ... - Quora
Nov 5, 2022 · The Fender Precision Bass pretty much marks the beginning of rock, because it allows the bass player to have impact and keep time for the band ...
[65]
Vintage 1966 Fender Precision Bass | The Motown Bass Sound
Sep 24, 2024 · ... Fender Precision Bass: The holy grail of low end, retro tone! The boys made a Motown-style track to really drive the point home and it ...
[66]
Bass Bench: The Pros and Cons of Neck Joints - Premier Guitar
Feb 10, 2017 · ... Fender introduced basses and guitars with bolt-on necks. This became Fender's standard for bass, as well as the standard for many other ...
[67]
Why did the Fender Precision Bass succeed when earlier attempts ...
Jul 13, 2025 · The bolt on neck made construction easier and also later adjustment. ... Why doesn't Gibson care about bass guitar production as much as her rival ...How did product endorsements in the 1950s influence the popularity ...What made the Fender Precision Bass so popular? - QuoraMore results from www.quora.com
[68]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plkQRev_EWk
[69]
MUSICMAN STINGRAY vs FENDER PRECISION - YouTube
May 18, 2013 · Vintage Bass: Fender vs MusicMan vs Rickenbacker vs Gibson. Which One's Best?? Dan Hawkins Bass Lessons•93K views · 23:32 · Go to channel ...Missing: imitating Höfner 500/1
[70]
How come the Fender P-Bass came to be a staple among ... - Quora
Dec 12, 2020 · Historical is that this was the first practical electric bass, and for at least a few years, the only one good enough for serious work.
[71]
Fender Geddy Lee Signature Jazz review - MusicRadar
Rating 5.0 · Review by Mike BrooksSep 13, 2021 · This bass is impressive. Even in acoustic mode, it has a biting sparkle that we've not heard often from a Jazz bass.<|separator|>
[72]
Flea Jazz Bass - Fender
Maple neck with "C"-shaped profile and 1.5" nut width; Road Worn nitrocellulose lacquer finish on back of the neck; 7.25"-radius rosewood fingerboard with 20 ...Missing: 2004 | Show results with:2004
[73]
Fender Releases New 2025 Series of Basses - Bass Magazine
Jan 30, 2025 · Fender releases new 2025 series of basses. With new models, finishes, and specs, these basses enhance an established legacy of high-end craftsmanship.
[74]
squier jazz bass...good enough for recording? - HomeRecording.com
Apr 30, 2014 · It's fine. I use a cheap ass Squier P-Bass and I probably have the best bass tracks of all time. No seriously though, I do. But for real, yes, that bass will ...