Mustang vs. P Bass necks

[wisconsindead]

I like the sound of a P bass but I really don't like their necks, nor do I like playing long scale basses. Thus I am intrigued in trying out a Mustang bass. However, there aren't any locally. So, can anyone tell me how similar they are in dimensions other than scale length and if they varied much between all the different versions over the years?

 

[fermata]

I'm a short scale fan, too. I've tried the new Mustang PJ a couple of times. The neck is moderately chunky, but not as wide as the typical P-bass neck. I found it quite comfortable. But I'd prefer narrower string spacing, not the standard 19mm. Timely question, as I'm GASing for a Mustang of some sort; curious to see what others have to say.

 

[wisconsindead]

I guess I should note that I am not interested in the most currently available model, the PJ configuration.

 

[mbell75]

I guess I should note that I am not interested in the most currently available model, the PJ configuration.

Thats a shame because its the best Mustang they have ever made. Its perfect aside from the slab body with no contours. Ive owned an original from the 70s and a MIJ reissue, both were sold within a week. Im keeping the new one despite the body, its too good otherwise. The original Mustang necks are pretty much all the same, baseball bats. U shaped with a 7.5" radius. Some have a 9.5" radius but Im not sure which ones and they are all 1.5" width at the nut.

 

[Antisyzygy]

I like the sound of a P bass but I really don't like their necks, nor do I like playing long scale basses. Thus I am intrigued in trying out a Mustang bass. However, there aren't any locally. So, can anyone tell me how similar they are in dimensions other than scale length and if they varied much between all the different versions over the years?

The Mustang Pj is a solid buy. Excellent instrument. I tried only two out but both were perfect.

The one I got home needed a slight setup tweak after settling for awhile but that's normal.

The neck pickup is a bit boomier than a normal P tone but it has some really usable P tones between the P pickup and bridge pickup if you adjust tone to taste.

Some bright rounds for strings would probably compensate but I'd try it first in all settings. I like the extra boom. The volume tames it pretty well too and makes it sound more P like.

It has one of the better sounding bridge pickups too. I use it by itself sometimes. Some good mids in it, not too bright or tinny.

 

[Antisyzygy]

I guess I should note that I am not interested in the most currently available model, the PJ configuration.

The 3-way switch ensures in one setting it's all P and it has the same controls.

You'll have to shop around for a Mustang someone modded otherwise. They usually come with a pickup with a smaller aperture. The wider one is important for the P sound.

 

[wisconsindead]

They usually come with a pickup with a smaller aperture. The wider one is important for the P sound.

You're saying that the older style, rounded split pickup are deficient? In respect to tone similarities or in its ability to capture string vibration?

 

[mbell75]

You're saying that the older style, rounded split pickup are deficient? In respect to tone similarities or in its ability to capture string vibration?

The pickup in the original Mustangs are arguably its weakest feature. They are just not very good with a rather thin sound. Many opt for the Nordstrand NM4s as a replacement. The new Mustangs sound a TON better.

 

[rockscott]

I have a vintage circa 1997 cij mustang. 100% stock including the original duncan split pick up. The stock pick up is a little weak, however you can get any sound you want, including p bass like tones if you are patient and spend some time to properly EQ the bass.

 

[98mtd]

The new pj is perfect as is. The only thing I would change is a set of black tape wound LaBella strings for the sound and feel. I also have a new American Professional P bass, but that does not get as much play as the mustang pj.

 

[felis]

I guess I should note that I am not interested in the most currently available model, the PJ configuration.

Any particular reason why? Or do you just think you wouldn't like it.

I've got both MIJ and P/J Mustangs. They look, sound, feel, and play differently, but I like them both equally.
Absolutely no doubt that the P/J is much more versatile though.

 

[IvanC]

I've got both MIJ and P/J Mustangs. They look, sound, feel, and play differently, but I like them both equally.
Absolutely no doubt that the P/J is much more versatile though.

Do you notice much difference playing with the different string spacings of the two?

 

[felis]

They do feel different, but I don't know how much is due to spacing, radius, thickness, and other variables.
The MIJ has 7.25" and the P/J has 9.5" radius.

The P/J felt more 'right' from the start, but I've gotten very used to the MIJ now too.
That took a bit longer though.

 

[IvanC]

Good info; thank you!