• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Fender Precision American Pro 2: best modern pbass?

Sep 29, 2019
636
1,763
Hi guys, after months of heavy use and having had so many precision models in the past I have to say that in my opinion these new Fender Precision American Pro 2 are the best modern pbass in circulation. They are quality instruments, with a hybrid sound between vintage and modern and with various modern solutions that make it the perfect evolution of the pbass. This is my model in the mercury finish ... and what do you think of this bass?
2C266DC3-4982-487C-835F-3A5877721321.jpeg
AD3F3A80-E6DE-4D18-B4C5-4BE9E8DEC288.jpeg
D7CE82AB-E350-457C-8E59-DD25AB8AF428.jpeg
 
Cool bass. However, my perspective is that there is no best modern P-Bass. Quality across the board for most or all brands is very high. I believe we’re now facing a market where P-basses are all of similar quality and buyers are basically choosing their purchases mainly on brand name, price point, and subtle differences such as pickups, finish, or weight.
 
Hi guys, after months of heavy use and having had so many precision models in the past I have to say that in my opinion these new Fender Precision American Pro 2 are the best modern pbass in circulation. They are quality instruments, with a hybrid sound between vintage and modern and with various modern solutions that make it the perfect evolution of the pbass. This is my model in the mercury finish ... and what do you think of this bass?

Gorgeous bass. Really, really like the design of that bridge. I don't know if that is new to this model or not, but that is a nice looking part. Curious what modern solutions they've implemented to evolve the Pbass? Always looking for a reason to buy a new P :D.
 
Well... it is a nice looking bass, and the specs are impressive. And, the fact that I can get a left handed one - and in more than one color, too :wideyed: - makes it a definite contender for the title, IMO. However... for me, it's the neck that let's it down. I've been playing my '78 Fender P-Bass for... yeah, 34 years, this month. I fell in love with it's optional "A contour" neck (basically a Jazz Bass neck w/o block inlays) when I bought it; I'm in love with that neck now. So, unless I can get that shiny new (and pricey) P-Bass with a Jazz Bass-spec neck, right from the factory? Well, then; sorry, but the "best modern P-Bass" is living right here in my music room - and has been, for over 3 decades...:whistle:
 
  • Like
Reactions: Real Soon
This is my model in the mercury finish ... and what do you think of this bass?

That IS a beautiful bass! And I am a Fender guy! But "best" is in the eyes (and ears, and hands) of the beholder!

I sure like mine. It’s the first Fender I have owned in 30+ years of “hobby” playing.

And THAT is a beautiful bass!

Congrats to both of you! :bassist:
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: Basically Bob
I am constantly amused that, back when I was a kid, there was one model of Precision bass - you picked a color, and you were done. Now, the marketing department seems to be working overtime to come up with as many variations as possible. The differences between all of them at this point seem so minuscule and confusing that I couldn't possibly keep track of them all, much less know which one is "best".

Go somewhere where they have a bunch of models - obviously nobody carries them all at this time. Play them until one feels and sounds like your bass. Then buy it.
 
Hi guys, after months of heavy use and having had so many precision models in the past I have to say that in my opinion these new Fender Precision American Pro 2 are the best modern pbass in circulation. They are quality instruments, with a hybrid sound between vintage and modern and with various modern solutions that make it the perfect evolution of the pbass. This is my model in the mercury finish ... and what do you think of this bass?View attachment 4749224 View attachment 4749226 View attachment 4749227
I was gonna say something snarky, like "get Squier CV", but your bass is beautiful! Enjoy my friend.
 
Last edited: