Fender vs Modulus

tkcthulu · #1 11-27-2010, 02:37 PM

Hey, I have sort of a dilemma:

Modulus FB4's are on sale for around $1,600, which I can afford. I really like how Modulus's look, feel and sound. However, with that money I could also just get a used MIA Fender Jazz plus a pretty good amp. Am I just GASing over the Modulus? Will the GAS pass? It seems the jazz would be a better choice because it is more versatile, but damn, a modulus is a modulus!

Basically Modulus + Really crappy amp (those starter things you get from the fender squier packs)
or Fender Jazz Bass + Decent Amp

fleabee · #2 11-27-2010, 02:43 PM

Look into Modulus Vj's. The Fb's are the polar opposite of a jazz bass. I love all Modulus neck's so I am impartial. I current have a Modulus and Fender Jazz. The Modulus gets used 90 percent of the time.

bassjus · #3 11-27-2010, 02:44 PM

If you want a modulus FB a fender jazz isn't really going to be a good substitute. If you have the money now get the bass you want.

blmeier7 · #4 11-27-2010, 03:00 PM

Like the others have mentioned, there is a big difference in tone between those two basses. Go with what feels and sounds right and forget about the name on the bass.

I played a Modulus Q5 for several years as my only bass. It was built like a tank and sounded great, but I really missed the lack of warmth by not having wood in the neck.

Have you looked for a used Flea bass? If you picked up a used one and didn't really like it after a few months you could always sell it or trade for a jazz and not be out any money.

tkcthulu · #5 11-27-2010, 03:02 PM

I was thinking that Flea used a Jazz Bass for a little bit that I might be able to pull out a few sounds but I guess not?

blmeier7 · #6 11-27-2010, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tkcthulu

I was thinking that Flea used a Jazz Bass for a little bit that I might be able to pull out a few sounds but I guess not?

I think I heard somewhere a while back where he was using his 64? jazz for some recording and his Flea bass for live shows.

I personally still like his tone best when he used the stringray.

**TXLawDawg** · #7 11-27-2010, 03:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blmeier7

Have you looked for a used Flea bass? If you picked up a used one and didn't really like it after a few months you could always sell it or trade for a jazz and not be out any money.

This. I'd try to find a used FB. They can be had for a good price if you look around. I scored my FB5 for a great price on ebay.

tkcthulu · #8 11-27-2010, 03:07 PM

Also, to add, I'll probably have this bass for many years since I probably won't be able to buy another one for a long time. Since the Jazz Bass is considered more versatile, will I be kicking myself for having just the Modulus down the road when my tastes have changed (if they do)?

**TXLawDawg** · #9 11-27-2010, 03:23 PM

Well, there's always that chance. In fact, it will most assuredly occur. This forum is a good testiment of how people's likes and dislikes are constantly evolving. Undoubtedly, which ever one you decide on and get, you'll end up wanting the other at least at some point. I'm biased but, I'd go Modulus. You could always trade it for a good MIA jazz if you don't like it.

tkcthulu · #10 11-27-2010, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TXLawDawg

Well, there's always that chance. In fact, it will most assuredly occur. This forum is a good testiment of how people's likes and dislikes are constantly evolving. Undoubtedly, which ever one you decide on and get, you'll end up wanting the other at least at some point. I'm biased but, I'd go Modulus. You could always trade it for a good MIA jazz if you don't like it.

Right. I probably wouldn't be able to trade it the other way around