Im new to this board. I've been playing a long time but have only recently gotten into the gear big time. I am looking for a new J bass and was looking for opinions. Are the higher end J bass styles worth the extra cash? Now that Fender raised their prices I feel like the door is open to a lot more options from the more boutique makers also. I want to get something nice but want to know if money does buy a better instrument or just bragging rights.
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j bass recommendation
- Thread starter timmy13
- Start date
Best Bang for the buck in a Jazz Bass right now is the Squier Classic Vibe Series Jazz Bass. Great feel well made great sounding . The only real difference is you don't get the full harmonic subtelties with it like you would with a MIA Jazz but it is also only 350.00 ANd don't let the Squier Name fool you it is worth what it costs and then some.
Is this the same as a MIA Jazz no but it is mighty close in most ways that count tone,playabillity,feel and fit and finish.
In answer to your actual question yes money does definately buy a better instrument. Is it worth 4 times the cost only you can decide that after a side by side comparison. MIA Fenders for the most part are better grade of wood better made neck better overall feel and sound.
Is this the same as a MIA Jazz no but it is mighty close in most ways that count tone,playabillity,feel and fit and finish.
In answer to your actual question yes money does definately buy a better instrument. Is it worth 4 times the cost only you can decide that after a side by side comparison. MIA Fenders for the most part are better grade of wood better made neck better overall feel and sound.
I think it's a combination of both. It also depends on what kind of music you play. I play mostly classic rock and a Jazz works perfectly for me. I'm not interested in a hi-fi bass. The higher end Jazzes have a wonderful classic, sweet sound.
Also, my feeling is that if music means a lot to you and you're in it for life, buy the best instrument you can afford and hold on to it. Time goes by quickly and a quality instrument will appreciate. I would at least buy an American Jazz (I prefer passive basses). I happen to have a 64 Custom Shop Relic Jazz mainly because, I didn't want to spend 12 to 14K for a vintage and worry about a twisted neck or bad electronics going in!
It a very personal decision but I think paying a little extra does get better sound and craftsmanship.
Also, my feeling is that if music means a lot to you and you're in it for life, buy the best instrument you can afford and hold on to it. Time goes by quickly and a quality instrument will appreciate. I would at least buy an American Jazz (I prefer passive basses). I happen to have a 64 Custom Shop Relic Jazz mainly because, I didn't want to spend 12 to 14K for a vintage and worry about a twisted neck or bad electronics going in!
It a very personal decision but I think paying a little extra does get better sound and craftsmanship.
I have an 08 Custom Shop that I paid over $2K for. Is it worth it, is it better. Well, I am glad I did it and got everything I wanted. But seriously, I probably could have got just as great sounding, playing and build in a MIA Standard....except for the color and finish. But, I thought I "owed" it to myself and the cash wasn't a problem at the time.
I haven't actually played any of the Mexican Fenders yet, so I'll let others here fill you in on that subject. I am kind of curious about the MIA Hwy 1 tho' and they seem to go for much less than the MIA Standard. I need to research the difference and play one I giuess
