Precision buying advice

[roadkill2309]

Not sure why the 2008-on American Standard series isn't getting more love here. It's the only Fender series I've played around on where every one I've touched has been a winner. I'd *almost* be willing to say it's a Fender line you can buy sight-unseen. Almost.

I'd echo BassPraiser's sentiment about the Lāklands, to a certain extent. It's possible (if you look a bit) to find a US-made Lakkie that'll fit the bill, but I wouldn't buy a Skyline without trying it first.

Also, I'm not sure what the used market for Lāklands is in the UK, so I should say that in *North America* you'll be able to find that US Lākland for the price you want to spend.

But I really think you should go try out a new American Standard P. I think you'll be impressed.

EDIT: I'll also back the idea of Sandberg and Hotwire. I really want a Hotwire some day.

 

[jmain]

...Don't let the country of origin dictate what P will work for you. ....

Amen!! My Squier CV 60s P is a great bass as well. Fully worthy gigging machine.

 

[Jeff K]

Not sure why the 2008-on American Standard series isn't getting more love here. It's the only Fender series I've played around on where every one I've touched has been a winner. I'd *almost* be willing to say it's a Fender line you can buy sight-unseen. Almost.

I agree regarding the '08 + Am. Stds. I bought one two years ago sight unseen (other than pics from the retailer). It is very nice. If you buy sight unseen from a place with a good return policy, it's pretty safe. More than likely you'll be thrilled with it; but if not, send it back.

That said, I also have a MIM Classic '50s that is also very nice. Outstanding tone. Not QUITE as comfortable to me as the Am. Std. (the Classic has a 1.75" nut width vs. the 1.625" on the Am. Std.), but it looks and sounds great. I played about 6 of them and they were consistently good.

Then recently, I picked up the below MIJ E-Series ('84-'87) P, which I also like a lot. Point being, don't rule anything out because of where it was made. My MIA, MIM, and MIJ P's are all very nice basses.

 

[Fingerz]

Some wicked P bass info, cheers!

I'll buy anything I like. The Lakland custom P is interesting (ex Dunn bass) due to the narrow nut which would be more like my jazz and easy to swap between. But it's sound first and foremost, then feel very close behind for me.. ^^ Interesting to learn that the American Std has a narrower nut.
I think doing the research is really important when buying unseen/played. I did that with my Celinder as they are like rocking horse sh*t so I had to buy long distance. I'm hoping to play the P that I buy (be it MI wherever, Lakland, Sandberg etc..) as there are many in the UK so will learn as i go. Those FGN basses do look fantastic too.

 

[Btone]

FWIW: Post 2008 American Standard Precision. But try it and see it before you buy.