Fender MiM Rumors true?

[RH434]

I'm really beating myself up. Couple of weeks ago I had a nice red Jazz MIM in my hands at GC in Harrisburg, PA. It was on clearance for $295.

Totally out of tune (even for GC) and not even close to being set up. After I noodled with the tuning a bit to at least hear it, was not bad. I guess I was shocked that they put it on display in such condition.

Should have bought it on the spot. :scowl:

 

[kirkm24]

I'm glad I'm settled with my basses. These price increases are insane! I remember when a CIJ Marcus Miller was $850. Now it $1050. The 'Sting" used to be $650 now it's $850.

If it is the economy as so many allege, wouldn't price increases hurt there business since consumers have less money to spend?

 

[eaaa410]

I'm glad I'm settled with my basses. These price increases are insane! I remember when a CIJ Marcus Miller was $850. Now it $1050. The 'Sting" used to be $650 now it's $850.

If it is the economy as so many allege, wouldn't price increases hurt there business since consumers have less money to spend?

The price increase won't hurt their overall volume since they are probably predicting lower sales volume overall for the year anyway. Those who are going to buy and can afford new a Fender will probably save up the extra money. The buyers who are deciding which new bass to buy based on price aren't the market the "Fender" brand is aiming for, that is for the "Squier". They can raise Squier prices 20% and still compete with other lower priced lines.

Those who are sold on the Fender brand just have to decide between the different price level within the line (MIA or MIM). I really doubt there are that many people who will buy a different brand (Ibanez, Schecter, etc.) to save a few bucks if a Precision or Jazz is what they really want. That would be like buying a Strat because you can't afford a Les Paul. The SX brand is always an option, while they are nice for the money, they aren't Fender.

Price increases exist in all sales business, a fact of life.