To choose a Precision precisely for 1000$

[smalesti]

Over the last week I have decided to get me a bass. I've been playing the guitar for too long before converting to bassism, I know. Please forgive me, and help me find out which Precision, that looks like the one on the attached picture, I may afford for 1000$, maximum.

The vintage ones often go for 1500-2000, according to eBay's completed listings; that is a bit depressing. Question is whether I have to look for a model made outside the US (which country is better? Mexico, Japan, whatnot?)...

(and/) or if the period in which a bass was produced also affects the price considerably, and thus can be taken into consideration (regarding the task: to pick one from the top shelf, if that is possible with 1000$ in hand).

This is actually all I can think of, of factors, at the moment. Please ask or suggest things I might have forgotten.

I have only set a price limit and showed you the finish I've fallen in love with (for the record, similar basses, i.e. with a different pick guard, are also of interest - but I wouldn't trade the dark neck (is this what they call 'rosewood'?) for a lighter one); for the rest of the screening process, I would sincerely appreciate your assistance. Thank you in advance. The question 'Where to get hold of such a bass? (which online store) is probably answered in the forum already, I suppose. I'll have a look.

I'm outta sleep, yet constantly dreaming these days.

Poll: Is it possible to get hold of the Precision of my dreams for a 1000 bucks?

 

[johnk_10]

i would recommend a used, all original USA vintage '62 reissue. try to find the lightest weight one possible (8lbs or less), you will LOVE it and it will last forever. they usually go for about $800-$1000 depending on the year and condition.

2 cents..........

 

[()smoke()]

sure

you have many fender options, but you can find an American Precision with a sunburst finish and rosewood fretboard for $1000 brand new

 

[superfunk47]

You could get an 08 Standard Precision off of www.theperfectbass.com and enter "talkbass" in the promotional code box at checkout and you'd come in just under a grand.

 

[tranceFusion]

So you want a 3TS (3 tone sunburst) w/ rosewood fretboard for $1000? Well you are in luck because the street price is $1089 on a new 08 that is freakin spectacular. And it comes w/ SKB hardshell case that normally streets for $129.

You can also go to ishibashi's website and look at their used inventory - you can get a standard Made In Japan Precision used, shipped to you for ~$500USD.

Or just check out the classifieds section here on TB.

 

[SundanceChile]

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Just under $800 I believe.

 

[smalesti]

sure

you have many fender options, but you can find an American Precision with a sunburst finish and rosewood fretboard for $1000 brand new

so the trick is to pick a new one - there's not really much of a rational reason to choose an older?

love your quick replies, guys

 

[frankenp]

sure

you have many fender options, but you can find an American Precision with a sunburst finish and rosewood fretboard for $1000 brand new

You are right. Dude the 2008' standards are awesome I own one just like the one in your pic (except tort pickguard). Paid $1000 +tax for it.

 

[smalesti]

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Just under $800 I believe.

I'm pretty certain I've been "warned" about the Highways. Don't have the same reputation, do they, as the classics?

Even though this will be my first bass, I'm going for quality and all that. It's going to be the best my budget can offer.

 

[4Mal]

I would not pick new. I would look for a late 80's, early 90's Made In Japan, 62 RI. Series E through Series L. I have a pair. 1 P, 1 J - they are the best two Fender's I've ever had - and I have had a bunch - including MIA 62 RI's and a bunch of 70's P Basses.

The one thing I did with each was a thoughtful pickup swap. I've generally done that with MIA Fenders as well. There are boutique pickups that just stand tall over the stock ones. I'm high on Vntage Vibe these days. Mostly because the builder goes fully custom, build to order so you can tweak the magnets, windings, etc ... I'm really pleased with what I'm getting there.

The 75 RI J I have about $700 into after pickups. The 87 P, about $600. Either will compare very favorably with basses from some of the better known custom guys. Lull, Sadowsky, Lakland, etc - they are that good.

 

[frankenp]

The 2008 USA standards are on a completely different level quality wise then the HW-1's.

CHeck this out:
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[Spinal Tapper]

I personally would get a used one. It'll be cheaper and it'll play nicer - sort of broken in. Thats how I like em! And check out some Japanese Fenders too, they've got a good rep and you'll save some dough on the purchase towards a kickin' amp or whatever.

I've heard good things about the 62 RI P-bass too

 

[smalesti]

The 2008 USA standards are on a completely different level quality wise then the HW-1's.

CHeck this out:
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This is what I'm talking about; it's stunning! This is with the pick guard I wouldn't say no to, even though it's not the one on the posted pic.

 

[superfunk47]

It's going to be the best my budget can offer.

The 08's are the best your money can get you, IMO. You'd have to spend a lot more $$ to get any higher quality. The 08 is one that won't need replacing/upgrading.

 

[OutToPlayJazz]

Agreed on the new 2008 Am.Stds. The quality is excellent & they really feel and sound like special instruments. The only reason to get a Highway One is if you really want it to look old and battered as the Nitro finish gradually peels away...

 

[smalesti]

Agreed on the new 2008 Am.Stds. The quality is excellent & they really feel and sound like special instruments. The only reason to get a Highway One is if you really want it to look old and battered as the Nitro finish gradually peels away...

OK. We seem to have settled with Am. Std. 08 Next question is where to get them. I have only found this one with a rosewood neck (see link) at elderly's. Which stores do normally give you the best offer, incl. bass, case, shipping? I intend to buy it in the US (with a "fake/virtual postbox in Jersey"), and then have it shipped abroad. Probably cheapest. In my country, the list price is appr. 2500$.

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Thanks again. This must be the best forum on the Internet, whichever subject...

 

[Smurf-o-Deth]

As mentioned above, check out theperfectbass.com. They have great service, will answer any and all questions you have, and the basses you see are the basses you pick from, so you know what you are getting. Plus, talkbassers get a 10% discount.

 

[smalesti]

As mentioned above, check out theperfectbass.com. They have great service, will answer any and all questions you have, and the basses you see are the basses you pick from, so you know what you are getting. Plus, talkbassers get a 10% discount.

I can't find it with rosewood neck there, only maple. What about you?

 

[Tony Gray]

I think if you're just starting out on bass, get a used, or a Mexi Fender. You an get on in the color you want. Spend the extra money on an amp.And lessons

 

[mattygbass]

get the 08' its a great instrument and wont really lose value.try Invalid Link Removed