P-Bass Alternatives

[Jim Kuzman]

I'm considering adding a P-Bass (or a P-Bass-style alternative) to the family.

The Fender Player Precision ($699) seems a little underwhelming to me on the hardware front - tuners, pickups, bridge - so I'm looking at a couple of alternatives.

I'm considering the G&L Tribute LB-100 ($549) which of course most closely matches the original Precision in terms of pickup configuration, controls, etc.

The G&L Tribute SB-2 ($599) adds the flexibility of a P/J configuration.

The Schecter CV-4 ($599) is a double P-style pickup design with a bunch of series/parallel/split options. I currently have a Schecter Omen Extreme and I really like it; I've always been very impressed with Schecters for quality and value for money.

Does anyone have any opinions or insights on any of these instruments?

Jim

 

[Bass V]

the Schecter is likely a great choice, everything they do is worthy.
for the lower end of your budget this Epiphone 'Bird is a P killer and for my tastes cleans up on J tones as well at the bridge minus the high end, just beef across the board, then dial up the bass in any configuration and it's all over. I'm a P guy, now they just watch with the rest of my ignored quiver.

 

[howlin]

I'm considering adding a P-Bass (or a P-Bass-style alternative) to the family. Jim

Not quite a P but better in some ways

 

[Jim Kuzman]

Not quite a P but better in some ways

Wow! I had no idea this even existed. This looks really, really interesting... Thanks for further muddying the waters! I say that in jest, of course. I'm grateful you pointed this out. Choices are good. Much appreciated!

Jim

 

[PWRL]

Reverend makes some good P-type basses.

 

[A9X]

I'm considering adding a P-Bass (or a P-Bass-style alternative) to the family.

There are literally hundreds of different models of MIJ/MIK P bass clones out there, especially lawsuit era stuff that are better made than a lot of the Factory Fenders; Arai, Ibanez, Tokai, Greco and others. I have an Ibanez RB620 (see pic; not mine but the same except stock bent plate bridge) and it cost me about $50. It's 83 and ash/maple and has a great pickup.

Another alternative S/H are some of the Peaveys. I'm not as up on the non T40 models, but they are often MIA, very good and can be had for bargain prices. Check out the Peavey club thread.
U.S. Peavey Club

 

[howlin]

Wow! I had no idea this even existed. This looks really, really interesting... Thanks for further muddying the waters! I say that in jest, of course. I'm grateful you pointed this out. Choices are good. Much appreciated! Jim

Yeah, if I had the need for another bass this would be a top contender fo' sho'. Good luck with your search!

 

[bassdude51]

There is no alternate to the "P Bass"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A spit coil pickup, volume + tone.................ya got it! Whatever the body or headstock is!

 

[Swipter]

That Epi Bird is a beautiful site. I think I would just like to have that, because.

 

[Jim Kuzman]

Yeah, if I had the need for another bass this would be a top contender fo' sho'. Good luck with your search!

Oh, there's no "need" here. None whatsoever lol. I'm irrational but not delusional!

 

[S.F.Sorrow]

Yamaha BB-series are my personal favourite P(J)-basses in that price range.

 

[abarson]

MTD CRB
MTD Kingston CRB 4-String Tobacco Sunburst | Reverb

 

[matti777]

I would certainly try some as I found that there was quite a variety of sounds/tones. Just because they have a split coil pickup it doesn't mean they all sound the same.

 

[FenderOli]

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[BarfanyShart]

MTD CRB
MTD Kingston CRB 4-String Tobacco Sunburst | Reverb

Cool, it's got a zero fret. More basses should have zero frets.

 

[bumperbass]

Cool, it's got a zero fret. More basses should have zero frets.

I agree. Every bass and every guitar I've ever owned has come from the factory with nut slots too high. Every one.

 

[tgriley62]

Can't beat a Peavey Fury IMHO

 

[Stewie]

I'm really liking my MIC Squier CV 50s Precision. Short money for a great bass, if you can find one used

 

[mattj1stc]

Personally, I play a Lakland Skyline 5 string P (technically a 55-64). I think that Lakland does a better job making Fender inspired basses than Fender does.

 

[jd56hawk]

I'm considering adding a P-Bass (or a P-Bass-style alternative) to the family.

The Fender Player Precision ($699) seems a little underwhelming to me on the hardware front - tuners, pickups, bridge - so I'm looking at a couple of alternatives.

I'm considering the G&L Tribute LB-100 ($549) which of course most closely matches the original Precision in terms of pickup configuration, controls, etc.

The G&L Tribute SB-2 ($599) adds the flexibility of a P/J configuration.

The Schecter CV-4 ($599) is a double P-style pickup design with a bunch of series/parallel/split options. I currently have a Schecter Omen Extreme and I really like it; I've always been very impressed with Schecters for quality and value for money.

Does anyone have any opinions or insights on any of these instruments?

Jim

How about one that has a very special P bass pickup and also a very special look?