MIM vs MIA Jazz

[Blueser]

The only difference I see is basically the price,and the hardware (however the new MIM have almost the same hardware as the MIA's), but as far as the wood is concerned..I don't think there's really any difference at all between the 2.

Looking through this thread, and just wanted to point out that the new MIM basses do not have anything in common from a hardware perspective with their American counterpart. I own a 2009 MIM Jazz bass, and both a 2008 and 2009 MIA Jazz bass.

Bridge is different (high mass on MIA vs vintage bent steel style on MIM)
Tuners are different (Hipshots on the MIA vs. vintage mystery tuners on the MIM)
Electronics are different, and much cheaper on the MIM (after opening them up, there are completely different pickups, and pots between them as well.

Additionally, the MIM necks do not have the graphite reinforcement of the American necks, and the headstock is thicker on the MIA basses vs. their MIM counterparts.

While I don't dispute the value, or the fact that some MIM basses play and sound incredible (mine does), it really is night and day, after comparing both. You do get what you pay for when you buy a Fender MIA bass. That said, if you pick a good one, you get more than you pay for on the MIM model!

 

[Downunderwonder]

I posted a query on Korean Fenders but it sank. MIK anyone? They're even cheaper than Mexican but with nice extras, (here in New Zealand but apparently not elsewhere?)

 

[anthowl]

i find that often (not always by any means) that the MIMs play a little better. possably for having been played less and by fewer people.