So, Jaguar basses. I had a mid-2000s Japanese model that felt great, but ultimately got sold because I'm not really into the Jazz bass set up. Next up were two short-scale Squier Jags: One with with rounds and one with flat. Although they are the same model, their weights drastically differ. Heavier is better because it balances the neck. As has been noted a million times, the J pickup is anemic and not very useful. I got them because I'd broken my wrist and needed a shortie when I was easing back into playing. They were cheap and both punch well above their weight. I had a short-scale American-made Gibson SG that felt great, but sounded like ass compared to the stock Squiers. Sold that one rather quickly.
And finally, in late 2017 I flipped my ancient Ovation Magnum I and got what I consider to be the best modern Fender bass: The U.S. Jaguar. It was a floor model for $1,100. I don't use the active circuit and stick mostly to the P pickup. I love this bass and along with my '75 Precision, I don't ever see myself parting with it. The great mystery is why Fender did such a short run of the U.S. models. You rarely see them on used sites, for example. Fender clearly has had success with the import models, so I don't know why the American-made one had such a limited run. Glad I've got mine.
Now, if I could do the U.S. to my own specs, I'd ditch the active circuit. The switches on the lower horn are fine and give some nice options even though for me, the pure P sound is what I'm after. I can see how someone would be taken back by the amount of chrome on it, it is a little much. Still, it sounds wonderful, it's got a great neck, and the aesthetics are sweet.
And finally, in late 2017 I flipped my ancient Ovation Magnum I and got what I consider to be the best modern Fender bass: The U.S. Jaguar. It was a floor model for $1,100. I don't use the active circuit and stick mostly to the P pickup. I love this bass and along with my '75 Precision, I don't ever see myself parting with it. The great mystery is why Fender did such a short run of the U.S. models. You rarely see them on used sites, for example. Fender clearly has had success with the import models, so I don't know why the American-made one had such a limited run. Glad I've got mine.
Now, if I could do the U.S. to my own specs, I'd ditch the active circuit. The switches on the lower horn are fine and give some nice options even though for me, the pure P sound is what I'm after. I can see how someone would be taken back by the amount of chrome on it, it is a little much. Still, it sounds wonderful, it's got a great neck, and the aesthetics are sweet.
