Is Fender overpriced?

[Paulabass]

Some of the Fender inspired custom/uber builders make p's and J's that cost three times what a Fender costs, and sometimes I think they are overpriced, but they are very well made and sound great. It's all relative. I have Fenders from the Classic 50's series at less than a grand, to an Elite J at over 2G's CDN. and a CS at $4000.
They were all worth the money.

 

[jbhaugh]

If there is an equivalent instrument for a lower price that you like more than what is available from Fender, then yes, maybe Fenders are over-priced. My favorite PJ happens to be a Music Man Caprice, which sold new for more than any equivalent non-CS Fender, so maybe not? Only you can decide.

 

[Andy Daventry]

For me personally YES, in the market what I see YES, if I could afford I would maybe, maybe buy. I have found some good instruments used and new that look good sound good and are not expensive. When I pick up a fender P and play it , it feels good in my hands and It makes me want to lay a deep groove. It fits ME. I think the name carries a lot of extra baggage that transfer to the price. They’ve probably always been overpriced. Haven’t found a J Bass I’ve like.

I get what you're saying. P is my shout as well, but I've had happy relationships with jazz basses in the past. But I once bought a Stu Hamm Urge 2 bass, made by Fender, which I couldn't get on with at all. But that was a mistake. My mistake. It doesn't mean that the bass was overpriced.

 

[bassstrangler]

Is TalkBass doomed?

 

[cnltb]

Really? Why do we have to do this everyday?!?!?!?

Who says you have to and forcing you to read/post?

 

[arbiterusa]

Yes, Fender basses are grossly overpriced for what they are. Now go back to bed.

 

[bobba66]

Sometimes you get free candy.

 

[TrevorG]

No more than Prada shoes, Rolls Royces cars, Michael Jordan trainers or any other product that doubles as a cultural icon. As someone said - the price has only risen with inflation. They can be found cheaply - you just risk them being not very good.

 

[Flaked Beans]

Are you sure? I bought a new Ric in 1977 for 429.00 and they were more expensive than Fenders back then. Also bought a new P bass in 1970 for 250.00.

You are correct sir. I paid about $450 for it (with the OHSC). Actually this '08 am. std. jazz bass cost me $750 back in 2011 (used from guitar center).

Ash/maple + alder/ rosewood. mmm..

:

 

[mdogs]

Who says you have to and forcing you to read/post?

The same people who said I can’t post what I did.

 

[foolforthecity]

They're worth what people will pay for them. Same with iPhones, Beats headphones, designer clothes, big brand sneakers..

Are there cheaper options out there that can perform as well? Probably, yeah, in nearly every case. Doesn't matter if the brand carries enough name value, goodwill, or other aspect that people will pay a premium for.

Agreed. For me, Beats headphones = $0

 

[wmhill]

They sure are!

 

[EXCAV8]

Any item in the world is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it.

 

[bt3100fs]

No, I don’t think fender isn’t not overpriced.

 

[TonyP-]

 

[jdh3000]

Yes, if one wants one and cannot afford it... No, if one can afford it.

 

[sleddogn]

getting to the point where a forum like this is just re-hashed topics, new day, new spin...it is just what it is. I find myself coming here daily, thats the mistake i think lots here make. Unless looking for something specific to discuss, the multi times daily visit here can make one crazy.... i too fall into the trap of getting frustrated reading same thing over and over, but have to realize some are new here, fresh to the world of bass and ready to learn, i'm ready to jam and catch a big buzz, lol

 

[Mannyinnewyork]

For me, overpriced means I feel like a fool for spending X amount on something. I've never felt that way with any Fender bass (or guitar).

 

[74hc]

I think it's probably better to compare value relative to competitors today, rather than 1950's dollars to today.

Based on competitors, I'd say their MIA ones are a little bit over price. Their MIM are and are not, depending on the model, and some of the MIC are a good value.

If I was going to spend $2k to $3k on a new bass today, Fender would be one of the last that I would consider. I much prefer EBMM, G&L, Kiesel, Lull, and some others over a Fender. I do have a Fender, EBMM, and Kiesel currently.

I would like a Sadowsky and a Fodera in rotation on my church gigs... Lord hear my prayer!

 

[stringthrough]

Is a perfect 1 caret diamond worth $2,000 or more?..... It's just a polished piece of crystallized Carbon.