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Vintage Jazz Question

donnercruz

donnercruz

Supporting Member
Jan 12, 2009
228
244
Northern California
#1
So, I've got some great basses that I love, but nothing that has a vintage jazz sound. In the $2500 or less range would you keep looking for a decent '70s jazz bass or go with a Mike Lull m5v (I generally play 5's)? I know everyone has an opinion, just looking for some thoughts on the deal.
 
#2
My opinion is to purchase new instruments .
I own a Fender P American V purchased new. I own (2) other P basses. I am looking into a new Geddy Lee Jazz or a V Jazz to add to my other basses. My last purchase was a Ric 4003 for over $2000. This one was bought new from the Bass Empourium . I am not connected with them (wish I were !) but I am always looking around there and they seem to have down to earth prices. I would call them up and see what they have..... . Their website is : Invalid Link Removed
Best of luck ................................:cool:
 
#4
The answer really depends on the purpose of your purchase.

If you are looking for the most playable and best sounding istrument for your buck, I'd see a recent high quality bass would be most likely to get you what you're looking for.

If you're looking for a financial investment that is likely to appreciate but that you can also have a lot of fun playing over the years, a vintage Jazz is probably what you should buy.
 
#5
As a recent purchaser or a later '74 early '75 Jazz bass... I chose to buy vintage. I didn't really purchase it as an investment. It's definitely the best playing bass I own at the moment and of course it's going to be going with me to band practices and gigs.

I actually have band practice tomorrow and can't wait. :)
 
#6
I know it's hard, but try to play the bass before you purchase it. I think older, vintage basses like 70's fender, can be hit or miss. Newer instruments are more consistent bass to bass. So if you have to buy before you try, I'd go with a newer bass. MHO.
 
#7
I was headed to look at a 73 J, trying to make arrangements with the seller to have my tech have a look before handing over all the money. He stopped returning my calls and never scheduled a viewing. Got me thinking it might be tough to find a good one and be able to verify what was original and what was replaced. I really am hesitant to buy vintage sight unseen.
 
#10
You are obviously curious about 70s Jazz basses. Buy a real 70s Jazz while you can still get them a relatively good prices. It hasn't been all that long ago when you could still get an early 60s L series Jazz for under 3k -- good luck with that now. Just go and play a few to find a nice one. There are plenty of light weight straight 70s Jazzes out there if you are willing to look around a bit.
 

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