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Fender P vs J

minddrain

minddrain

Dec 17, 2018
214
211
#1
So, apparently the bass I wanted to buy (another brand) is not available and my sales place has given me the choice between these two models.

My concern, I cannot hold or try either before purchasing. I currently have an Ibanez SR300EL. I do not want an overall thicker neck for a second guitar. Can anyone compare the necks of these two for total circumference? I’ve read that they both have the Modern C neck. They both have a 9.5” radius. The P doesn’t taper like the Jazz to my understanding. So it is more the same thickness all of the way down I presume.

I just don’t want to order something uncomfortable to play

Thanks.
 
#3
I was looking at a Schecter. I found one place on Reveb that had one and one place on Amazon that had one. Ideally, I would like to get it from somewhere that I do not have to pay for it all at once. The place on Amazon was trying to confirm if they had one or not and did have financing.
 
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#6
First, it depends which Fender. There are many.

Next, the P neck does taper, just not as much as the Jazz.

Now, a general comparison: The Jazz will be closer in width to your Ibanez, but the neck will probably be beefier. As for the fretboard radius, the SR will be a little flatter, and some Fenders will have a pretty tight radius.

And, I wouldn’t buy any bass I haven’t tried or don’t have the ability to return if it just doesn’t work for me.

Lastly, get the bass you want, not a compromise.
 
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#7
What are the two models of Precision and Jazz you are considering? .. there are different profiles of both depending on model, and both 1 5/8" and 1 3/4 nut widtch are common on Precisions, while the Jazz is going to be 1 1/2"
 
#8
The necks are different, and the PUPs are very different. Definitely play before buying if you can. I think the P is more of a one-size-fits-all bass. Having said that, I have a MIM Jazz and a Mustang PJ. Never been a fan of the P neck, but some players swear by them.
 
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#9
Stevorebob said:
And, I wouldn’t buy any bass I haven’t tried or don’t have the ability to return if it just doesn’t work for me.

Lastly, get the bass you want, not a compromise.
Click to expand...

I would have the ability to return it. Via mail. I don’t think any of the guitar centers within a two hour drive of me have left handed ones to try.

I have an email into the manufacturer asking about the availability delays.
 
#10
There must be some place you can go to try a P and a J. They're only the two of the most common basses sold. At least you have an idea, even though as others have said, both can vary by specific models.

EDIT: I just your last post about being a lefty. Still play it upside down to get an idea of the feel of the neck. :)
 
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#11
This is from Guitar Center all Atlanta locations

9CF6B201-3A96-4A58-A085-244FCEE7568A.png
 
#12
I am left handed and currently own the Ibanez SR 300 also. I am planning to get a Fender Precision bass soon. Getting to try a left handed bass is very hard. Even living in NY city with many stores does not help much. Only Sam Ash has currently 2 Jazz and 1 Precision basses all being the Player Series Made in Mexico. I am looking for the American Professional precision so I only had to rely on the right handed to get a feel for the neck which is awesome for me. I say don't rush it , stick to the Ibanez until you can try some Fender ones in a store.
 
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#13
minddrain said:
I would have the ability to return it. Via mail. I don’t think any of the guitar centers within a two hour drive of me have left handed ones to try.

I have an email into the manufacturer asking about the availability delays.
Click to expand...
Well, you could buy both, keep the one you choose and return the other.

BTW, I played a Squire 70s CV Jazz at GC today and I was very impressed. It was surf green, maple neck with block inlays. Very cool. It was calling to me.....
 
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#18
minddrain said:
I would have the ability to return it. Via mail. I don’t think any of the guitar centers within a two hour drive of me have left handed ones to try.

I have an email into the manufacturer asking about the availability delays.
Click to expand...
If you pick up right handed ones, and flip them over, you can still gauge the neck feel, even though you won't be able to play through multiple strings easily. Things being upside down and all.
 

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