Fender Precision Bass
The Fender Precision Bass is one of the most iconic instruments in modern music. Since its debut in the 50s it has been a staple of practically every genre you can think of! The Precision Bass is loved for its versatility but its tone, look, and impact.
Learn about its history, features, and design in this guide to Fender Precision basses. If you are in the market to own one, you can also browse for Fender P basses for sale in the UK.
The History Of The Fender Precision Bass
The P-Bass is Born (1951)
The Precision Bass was introduced by Leo Fender in 1951 and pretty quickly changed the music world. That’s because before the P-Bass, players used upright basses. But they were cumbersome, almost impossible to amplify, and not very accessible to most budding bass players. So enter…Leo Fender!
Leo Fender designed and launched the first mass produced electric bass guitar in 1951. The Precision bass a compact design, fretted neck, and pickups that allowed for amplified sound, increase portability, and more precision – hence the name.
Did you know in the 50s the term 'fender basses' was commonly used to refer to all electric bass guitars?
Decades of Evolution
Since 1951, The Precision bass has had a few changes.
1957 Redesign: The P-Bass got a major makeover, a contoured body like the Fender Stratocaster and a split-coil pickup. It is as we know it today.
60s-70s: Fender added new finishes and features, like the rosewood fretboard followed by CBS era changes. These changes include: pearl inlays, white three-ply vinyl pickguards instead of tortoiseshell pickguards, pickup bobbin colour, and headstock logo.
80s-2000s: Fender expanded the Precision Bass line with various models, signature editions, and material updates. Some 80s Precision basses can still be very heavy, whereas 90s and 00s basses are significantly lighter.
Modern Era: Today, Fender Precision Bass guitars are still a staple, with vintage reissues, modern updates and custom shop models for all players.
Tech Specs
Hardware
Body: Alder or ash, solid body design for balanced tone with warmth and sustain, eliminating feedback problems common with traditional hollow-bodied instruments.
Neck: Maple or rosewood fretboard, slim “C” or thicker neck profile.
Pickups: Split single coil pickup, delivering a unique sound characterized by both power and warmth.
Scale Length: 34” the standard for electric basses.
Bridge: 4-saddle or vintage style for precise intonation.
Sound and Versatility
The Precision Bass has a unique sound with a warm, focused tone, punchy lows, and smooth mids. Its single pickup design makes it great for rock, blues, funk, punk, and more. It sits well in a mix live or in the studio.
Fender Precision Bass Players
Partly due to its revolutionary launch but also testament to its versatility, the P-Bass has been used by many legendary bassists.
Here are a few:
James Jamerson: The Motown legend
Carol Kaye: Session musician extraordinaire whose P-Bass played on countless hits
Sting: Used a vintage P-Bass to write many of the Police’s basslines. His signature is now the early 50s shaped body
Steve Harris: Iron Maiden’s bassist
Sid Vicious: The P-Bass playing bassist from the Sex Pistols.
Models and Variations of the Precision Bass
Vintage and Reissues
1951 Precision Bass: A reproduction of the original, with the vintage tone and look.
’57 and ‘62 Reissues: Vintage specs and finishes.
Signature Models
Steve Harris Signature P-Bass: For metal, with custom pickups and a special look.
Duff McKagan Precision Bass: P-Bass and Jazz Bass combined.
Modern Lines
American Professional II Precision Bass: Updated electronics and satin neck finish.
Player Series Precision Bass: The Fender P Bass is affordable and great for beginners and intermediate players.
Price: How Much is a Fender Precision Bass?
The price of a Fender Precision Bass in the UK varies based on the model and specifications:
Fender Player Precision Bass: Typically costs around £750-£915 for new models, such as the Polar White or Silver Smoke versions
Fender American Performer Precision Bass: Priced at £1,299, available in finishes like Sunburst or Lake Placid Blue
Fender American Professional II Precision Bass: Costs around £1,752, with a premium build and finish
Fender American Vintage II 54 P Bass: This high-end model is priced at £1,782-£1,959, showcasing vintage-inspired features
Pre-owned options can be more affordable depending on their condition and rarity. However, vintage Precisions can command a high price tag due to their desirability and history.
Pre-CBS Models (1950s-1964): These are among the most desirable and expensive. A 1963 model in good condition recently listed for £12,995
Mid-1970s Models: These are less costly but still valued by collectors and players. For example, a 1977 Precision Bass in excellent condition was listed at £1,691.25
Custom or Unique Finishes: Basses with rare finishes, like Sonic Blue from the early 1960s, can command significantly higher prices
Fender P Bass For Sale
Find a Precision bass for sale in the UK from the Vintage Bass Room. Our range of Fender P basses includes all eras and finishes, including artist-owned and artist signature Fender basses for sale.
FAQs
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The Fender Precision Bass is an unbeatable legend. With its history, sound and models it’s no wonder players of all ages choose it. Whether you’re just starting out with bass guitars or adding a classic to your collection, you can’t go wrong.
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A P bass is versatile with a range of tones suitable for everything from rock to funk to punk to blues to jazz and more. It is part of the reason that the Precision is one of the most popular basses of all time.
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Compared to the Jazz bass, a Precision typically has a thicker neck and more mid-focused tone. A Jazz Bass has a slimmer neck and brighter, scooped sound.
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An original example of a Gibson Ripper bass with a good straight neck, good truss rod, no modifications like replaced tuners, and no pickguard material missing can be worth up to £3000 in the UK. Honest signs of use or a few small marks located on the body itself don't usually devalue the guitar.
However, rare examples or bass guitars with artist provenance can be worth more as they are long sought after. Early basses can be worth over £7000, with the last one sold in the US in 2022.
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Yes! Vintage models have their own tone and are a good investment. They are an incredibly popular instrument and are high in demand. Early examples, in particular, can be an amazing investment as long as they are in good, original condition.
