Good non-Fender P?

[SirGrotius]

Every non-Fender P I've played has something missing, or is at least different. Some are better, but I can't say that they nail that exact sound, so it's more of a different thing.

You could go for one of those CIJ Fender P Basses that are so awesome looking in terms of the color palette.

Perhaps if cost isn't an issue go Customer Shop and really change it up. It'll be quite a different experience from what I hear but while still nailing the P-bass sound.

I'm a huge fender junky, so probably should ignore me.

 

[One Drop]

Depending on your price range...US Lakland, Lakland Skyline, '80s Tokai Hard Puncher and Squier Classic Vibe. IMO.

My thoughts, save I've only heard raves about US Lakies but haven't had the opportunity to try one.

My Tokais do absolutely nail the Fender P tone, and I mean nail. If you were handed one and didn't look at the H/S there is no way you could tell it from a lightweight 70's Fender, and the feel is identical, too.

 

[darkstorm]

BC Rich Eagle with single P pup. The new eagle one bass with solid mahogany body, maple neck, rosewood fretboard, himass bridge, excellent build and fretwork, is available silly cheap thru online stores. Change pup if you want less of a crunchy tone. Thats the nicest inexpensive P bass I can think of available new.

 

[Basshappi]

Check out the old japanese yamaha BB series. Some are bolt on, some are neck through, but they are all solid instruments. The bolt on ones you can get for around $3-400 and the neck through are a bit more pricey. Great Japanese made instruments though.

THIS.

My BB400 with flats is one of the best "Motown Machines" I've ever heard. One can usually find the old BB's going for small $$.

 

[oldrookie]

For Gig quality.. a Fury (usa made with split P) will out play any of my fenders.. a Milestone is a great gig bass (imported - good used option)..

and they have a jazz neck. SaaaaaWEET!

Picked mine up for $75.00 at a pawnshop. Have some reconditioning time in it, but I pick it up about as often as any bass I own. Currently torn apart for a refinish, but can't wait to get it done so I can play it again.