Description

Early 2000s CIJ Fender Precision Bass, $1199!

The early 2000s Crafted in Japan (CIJ) Fender Precision Bass is a well-regarded electric bass guitar known for its excellent craftsmanship, vintage-inspired design, and reliable performance. Produced during a period when Fender Japan was known for its high-quality manufacturing, this Precision Bass model offers players the classic P-Bass experience with modern reliability and playability. The maple neck version, in particular, is favored for its bright tone and smooth playability.

Key Features

Body and Construction

  • Body Shape: The bass features the classic Precision Bass body shape, which has become iconic since its introduction in the 1950s. The double-cutaway design allows for easy access to the upper frets, and the contoured body provides comfort during long playing sessions.
  • Body Material: Typically made from alder, a tonewood known for its balanced sound with a good mix of warmth and brightness.

Neck and Fingerboard

  • Neck Material: The neck is crafted from maple, which is known for its stability and bright tonal characteristics. Maple necks contribute to the bass’s overall clarity and definition, especially in the high-end frequencies.
  • Fingerboard: The fingerboard is also made from maple, offering a smooth playing surface and a bright, snappy response. The combination of a maple neck and fingerboard is popular for its articulate and percussive sound.
  • Neck Profile: The neck typically features a “C” shape profile, which is comfortable for most players and allows for easy playability across the fretboard.
  • Scale Length: Standard Fender scale length of 34 inches, providing balanced string tension and a familiar feel for Precision Bass players.
  • Frets: The bass is equipped with 20 vintage-style frets, which are medium in size and offer a smooth playing experience with easy bending and comfortable action.
  • Nut Width: The nut width is usually around 1.625 inches (41.3mm), which is slightly wider than some other bass models, offering a solid feel and accommodating both fingerstyle and pick playing.

Hardware

  • Bridge: The bass is fitted with a vintage-style 4-saddle bridge, which allows for precise intonation and solid tuning stability. The bridge’s design is simple yet effective, contributing to the bass’s sustain and overall tonal consistency.
  • Tuners: Vintage-style open-gear tuners are used, providing reliable tuning stability and a classic aesthetic. These tuners are smooth and durable, ensuring that the bass stays in tune during performances and recording sessions.
  • Pickguard: A 3-ply pickguard, often in colors like white, black, or tortoiseshell, protects the body from pick scratches and adds to the bass’s vintage look.

Electronics

  • Pickup: The CIJ Precision Bass is equipped with a single split-coil Precision Bass pickup, which is central to the instrument’s iconic sound. This pickup delivers a powerful, punchy tone with strong mids and a tight low end, making it ideal for various musical styles, from rock to jazz to funk.
  • Controls: The bass features a simple control layout with one master volume knob and one master tone knob. This straightforward setup allows for easy and effective tonal adjustments on the fly, enabling players to dial in their preferred sound quickly.

Sound Characteristics

  • Classic P-Bass Tone: The Precision Bass is renowned for its rich, full-bodied sound that sits well in any mix. The split-coil pickup provides a balanced tone with a strong midrange presence, making it perfect for driving bass lines and melodic playing alike.
  • Articulate and Clear: The maple neck and fingerboard combination contributes to a bright, articulate sound with clear note definition. This makes the bass particularly well-suited for genres where clarity and precision are essential.
  • Versatile: While the Precision Bass is often associated with rock and punk music, its tonal versatility makes it a great choice for a wide range of genres, including blues, jazz, R&B, and funk.

Playability

  • Comfortable Neck Profile: The “C” shape neck profile provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to navigate the fretboard. The neck’s smooth finish also contributes to the bass’s overall playability.
  • Balanced Weight: The alder body provides a balanced weight distribution, making the bass comfortable to play whether standing or sitting.
  • Reliable Action: The bass is usually set up with low to medium action, making it easy to play without sacrificing tone or sustain.

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