Thoughts on Fender P&J (Special/Deluxe) basses?

[laurenRHCP]

Hey everyone.
I've been wanting to learn the bass for a really long time now and am currently trying to rake up enough money to get my first bass. I've been researching around on the internet and at music stores like crazy. I also stalk around TalkBass periodically.
Anyway, I'm pretty much set on a Squier or Fender, and I tried out a P&J (PJ, P-J, whatever you wanna call it) and I really like it because of the flexibility and possibilities with the sound.
So... I guess what I'm trying to ask is what are your thoughts and opinions on P&J basses? How has your experience been with them? Is it an okay bass for beginners? What bass would you recommend?
Sorry for all my questions. ;; Thanks!

 

[bassplayer8953]

I like mine...body downsized a bit from standard P sizing, narrow Jazz neck, & PJ pickups that give a variety of tonal options. However, mine is about 10 years old and one of the early passive models, so cannot comment about the electronics on the newer models. They are nice players, though...

 

[Stranger Danger]

Hey everyone.
I've been wanting to learn the bass for a really long time now and am currently trying to rake up enough money to get my first bass. I've been researching around on the internet and at music stores like crazy. I also stalk around TalkBass periodically.
Anyway, I'm pretty much set on a Squier or Fender, and I tried out a P&J (PJ, P-J, whatever you wanna call it) and I really like it because of the flexibility and possibilities with the sound.
So... I guess what I'm trying to ask is what are your thoughts and opinions on P&J basses? How has your experience been with them? Is it an okay bass for beginners? What bass would you recommend?
Sorry for all my questions. ;; Thanks!

You can get a used American Fender for about $200 more than a new MIM deluxe. The MIM deluxe models are just "meh" IMO. Wait a little longer and get the American. I wanted the same things when I started but I find the tried and true models work great and youll be happier in the long run. Good luck and happy thumping.

 

[39-Bassist]

Nothing wrong with a PJ. In fact I play one and I LOVE the tonal options I get.
Biggest thing eventually is knowing what sounds and tones you like and eventually tweeking the bass for your liking. (different pickups, wiring, pots) Good thing now is you don't have to worry about that if you're starting to learn to play. Good luck on your choice.

 

[nukes_da_bass]

Million variations- i own a JP5 (5 string jazz body PJ pickups). Love it. Do a search there are half a zillion threads on why this pickup config "doesnt work" but just as many of us love them.
I think mine has a jazz with double coils ive never heard a bit of hum out of it!!
With the VVT controls you can get a lot of different sounds IMO.