Why the Jazz Offset Body??

[ttmnky]

I've been around TB for a while now, and I seem to see that a large amount (if not a majority) of TBers have a jazz bass in some incarnation.

Now, I know that the Jazz P/U configuration allows for a very versatile and distinct bass tone (or tones), which are achievable without having to resort to a preamp. In addition to that, the Jazz neck is very slim and fast, which many bassists love.

However, for the life of me, I can't seem to figure out why someone would like the body shape of the jazz!

Now, before the flaming/ namecalling starts, I know that what matters most in a bass is the sound, and not the physical appearance. However, what benefit does that extra offset bump on the jazz bass offer that makes the shape so appealing to bassists?

Am I missing something here?

 

[Pacman]

It's comfy, it's classic looking, and I like it.

 

[dinghy]

It's more comfortable, or it looks better when being worn or something. It's personal preference. You just don't like it, other people do.

 

[adamrobertt]

why doesn't everyone have the same opinion as me i don't get it guys

 

[Valerus]

It looks amazing anf it feels even better.

 

[rcarraher]

It's comfy, it's classic looking, and I like it.

Ditto

 

[The Dave]

From a design standpoint, asymmetry lends a sense of movement and makes the body appear more lean and sleek.

Also - It's freakin' sexy man! How could you not like a Jazz?

 

[John Wentzien]

It's a work of art!

 

[3toes]

Well you see if you calculate the angle of the upper-horn to the farthest most point of your shoulder on your sounding-arm...

 

[ttmnky]

I'm just wondering myself. I don't hate it, but I find it an odd design.

 

[troyus]

It's got what plants crave.

 

[The Dave]

"Why is a tree good? Why are boobs good?" - J. Dirt

 

[EagleMoon]

I think the jazz bass shape is an acquired taste. I never much cared for it myself until I started hanging around here and I've had several Jazz basses since.

 

[Jaydin Nathan]

It's got what plants crave.

That movie IS the funniest!

 

[ehque]

I'm just wondering myself. I don't hate it, but I find it an odd design.

You're not alone.

 

[Polfuste]

because it's nice, and comfy.

 

[RikiTiki2]

jazz bass's body was designed after the jazzmaster. jazzmaster's body was designed to be more comfortable for sitting down jazz guitarists who ironically didn't embrace it. instead they kept with their hollowbodies

 

[Jefenator]

It's to discourage players from leaving the bass on the floor, leaning against the amp. (Doesn't work - I still do it.)

 

[vinxbass]

It's a great looking bass, plus it's very comfortable and sounds ******* killer, Fender that is - others may differ.

 

[PilbaraBass]

It's to discourage players from leaving the bass on the floor, leaning against the amp. (Doesn't work - I still do it.)

that's funny, because it's true...

I still do it, too, occasionally...but usually it's my P-bass that leans on the floor (it's better at it)