Fender 51 Precision Bass Reviews

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  Fender 51 Precision Bass

  £672.73

  Go to Thomann Cyberstore website

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• swashbucklerpaul 1st Jul 2008

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  Good Points: The 'made in japan' issue of this bass has suburb construction, using excellent materials. It is a solid, well made instrument, equal to, if not exceeding the quality of those fenders made in the U.S. 'Especially' those 1970's pieces of rubbish fender was putting out back then.
  This 51 reissue is well suited for those seeking the old school sound. 50's rock and roll-Classic country-R&B-Blues-Late 60's etc. If you dig Jamerson, Carol Kaye, Joe Osborn, Bill Black and Tommy Cogbill, you'll dig this bass. It works well in a jazz setting as well..Monk Montgomery, (Wes Montgomery's brother) was one of the first jazz players to use this original model when they first appeared on the scene back in the early 50's.

  
  

  Bad Points: OK, for you guys that have sensitive 'ears' and need 'accurate' intonation up and down the neck, replace the two barrel bridge with one that will allow you to adjust all four strings.
  The pickup is 'OK' but...if you truly desire the real deal in vintage 51 p bass tone, do yourself a favor and get a Jason Lollar replacement. Forget the Seymore Duncan antiquity-Bass lines-or Lindy Fralin. I put them all in this bass and used it on dozens of gigs with all types of music... Trust me, you want the Lollar.
  Now I guess quality sound is a very subjective thing, but I have owned an original '55' pbass 'and' an original 62 jazz bass, so 'mine ears have heard the glory 'of 'that' sound.. ( just wanted to qualify myself) .
  Ahhh.. I almost forgot. Slap on a set of Thomastik 'flatwounds' They were recommended to me by the famous 'Carol Kaye' (Studio Goddess) and considering her world class experience, 'she knows'... These strings will help contribute to that warm, percussive pop associated with vintage fender basses.

  
  

  General comments: Without 'any' modifications, it's a truly fine bass. Well worth the money, and an excellent value. Don't be put off by it's japan manufacturing. The Japanese are totally amazing about things being perfect. I worked side by side with them and believe me, they are freaky for details and perfection. So, 'as is', this is a very good bass....Just refer to my 'suggestions' and you'll be fine tuning a wonderfully classic reproduction that pays tribute to Leo Fender's genius.
  
  PF
  

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