Fender Bass Guitars

Iconic Models

Dissatisfied with the large size, hefty weight, and sound problems associated with the traditional upright bass, Leo Fender created the first commercially available electric bass. This instrument, the Precision Bass (or “P-Bass”), revolutionized music in 1951. It has a solid body and typically comes with a split single-coil pickup. Known worldwide for its solid, punchy sound and slim, straightforward design, the P-Bass has long been a favorite among rock, punk, and country musicians. It has also been a standard instrument for pop, soul, R&B, and reggae bassists.

Players in a broad spectrum of musical genres also appreciate the exceptional tone and versatile playability of the Fender Jazz Bass (or “J-Bass”). Beyond its offset body and its dual single-coil pickups, the J-Bass has a significantly narrower neck at the nut than the P-Bass. Shortly after its release in 1960, the J-Bass caught the attention of bassists within and beyond its target market of jazz musicians. While funk and fusion players may have been the first non-jazz bassists to discover the J-Bass, the instrument has found devotees that span as many musical styles as the P-Bass.

Players who favor a deep, powerful, clear, warm, and round tone tend to favor the P-Bass, while players who favor a bright, percussive, and snappy tone tend to favor the J-Bass. The slimmer neck and other features of the J-Bass not only make it far easier to play fast and complex lines but contribute to its highly responsive and articulate sound.

Quality and Reliability for Musicians at All Levels

In truth, it is difficult to go wrong by buying either a P-Bass or a J-Bass. Both basses are extremely playable, ruggedly dependable, and can produce a wide spectrum of desirable tones. Thanks to their superior performance, Fender bass guitars have been trusted by professional musicians around the world for decades. Countless notable bassists have used Fender basses in their epic live performances and well-known recordings.

In terms of legendary rockers, John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin and Sting of the Police have long used both P-Bass and J-Bass instruments, while Roger Waters of Pink Floyd gravitates toward the P-Bass and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers favors the J-Bass. Other famous P-Bass players include James Jamerson of Motown’s Funk Brothers and Steve Harris of Iron Maiden, and other famous J-Bass players include Geddy Lee of Rush and Jaco Pastorius of Weather Report and Joni Mitchell's band.

While the endorsement of such superstars demonstrates the superlative quality of Fender bass guitars, these instruments are not just for professionals. In fact, the solid construction, robust tone, and ease of play of the P-Bass and J-Bass make them excellent choices for beginners, hobbyists, and seasoned masters.

Shop Fender Bass Guitars at Brian's Guitars

Just as guitar players are bound to chime in when it comes to the great Telecaster vs Stratocaster debate, bass players are bound to disagree over the supremacy of the P-Bass or the J-Bass. In truth, you’ll find the best Fender of any kind will be the best Fender for you. The experts at Brian’s Guitars’ are ready to answer your questions. But you might want to begin by simply perusing our stock of exceptional Fender basses and our extensive collection of Fender electric guitars.