Which bass should I go for?

To my ear, the PJ soloed on the P pickup doesn't sound the same as a Precision. Close, but if you are looking for the classic Precision sound, I haven't found a PJ that really gets there.

 

If you want all these options, you need both basses. Can you try the pj? If so, check if you can live with the p sound it produces.

 

In this case I would get the American Pro. Your jazz basses are versatile enough. Also, according to my experience, the active p basses are often heavier than the passive ones.

 

I voted for the pro because the j pick up is going to affect the tone and you said you wanted a pure P tone. But in reality I would buy the one that feels and plays best. Fenders vary quite a bit from instrument to instrument in the feel department. You can always add a pickup selector to the deluxe that removes the J pickup from the signal completely.

 

Another consideration is the neck. I’m not 100% sure but I think some of the deluxes come with a J neck. That would be a winner for me as I’m not fond of P necks.

 

If you want a true PBass sound and money isn't a problem, go with Fender American Original. Thank me later

 

Fender Tony Franklin Fretted Precision Bass 2012 Golden Amber Price Guide

Find one of these. With the switch, it can be electronically identical to a straight P, with the added versatility of a PJ.

Also, many people have posted samples of P and soloed P on a PJ and the difference is imperceivable.

 

With your shoulder problem in mind, check out Sweetwater or other sellers who can show the weight of the bass. 8lbs or less for your shoulder. Search around and find a lighter bass.

 

I voted Pro, but I will also suggest that maybe you check out the the G&L LB-100. I've tried lots of P's and never really bonded with them. The LB-100 is on a whole different level IMO.

 

Whichever one feels better in your fretting hand.

 

Bofum

 

I would choose the Pro II. It has better of everything, pickup, neck, etc. IMHO My well acclaimed active Fender Select jazz bass has nothing in common with the active Deluxe. Pick the new 2021 Pro II model.

 

I’ve only played the pro, and it’s dy-no-mite. Mostly the neck, but the tone too.

If you want “pure p bass” then I’d lean pro. In a mix, the deluxe will come within 95% of a P bass, so it’s not about that. It’s a lifestyle, a mindset. 2 knobs, all your versatility comes from technique.

But since you report shoulder issues, I’d definitely get out there and play as many as you can. Look at non- Fenders with P pickups. Ergonomics is generally the dealbreaker for me on my instruments, not tone

 

Not to mention you don't have to settle for the same old, same old.

 

I just sold a P-Bass Deluxe. It is not going to give you that p bass sound. It’s got it’s own vibe going. It is wonderful for what it does. But your jazz basses almost cover that sound. The p bass will give you a different sound and thing going for it. That said I eventually learned I am more of a jazz bass guy. But it is worth going for that iconic sound.

 

IMO as you already have active Jazz basses I'd get a passive Precision. I'd suggest a good used Mike Lull P bass from the classifieds. They are fantastic instruments. Whichever bass you choose, put flatwound strings on and a lump of foam under the strings. I'd also be prepared to swap the pickup out if the bass feels right but doesn't sound quite what you want.

Find the right Precision bass and together with your Jazz basses you will be ready for anything.

 

Until someone plays you half a dozen Precision basses with EXACTLY the same sound I wouldn't rush to reject the PJ on grounds of tone. They sound different to some Ps and exactly the same as others. However, as you own an Elite, this Ultra P owner can tell you they sound amazing. The pickups are noiseless and beautifully voiced and there are 21 frets. Tried the ProII and was very impressed but there has been talk here about setups being difficult. Good luck.