Gear article

Fender American Professional II Precision Bass MN 3-Tone Sunburst

The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass is a high-end, 4-string electric bass guitar designed for professional musicians. Manufactured in the USA, it combines the iconic 'P-Bass' design with modern innovations such as the V-Mod II split-coil pickup and a 'Super-Natural' satin neck finish.

Fender American Professional II Precision Bass MN 3-Tone Sunburst
Fender American Professional II Precision Bass MN 3-Tone Sunburst
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Overview

The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass represents the evolution of the world's first commercially successful electric bass. Drawing on decades of Fender's expertise, this model is engineered to meet the demands of the modern touring and session musician. It retains the classic silhouette and 3-Tone Sunburst aesthetic while integrating ergonomic and electronic improvements designed to enhance playability and tonal range.

Key Features and Hardware

This instrument features several hardware upgrades over previous iterations. The neck is finished in 'Super-Natural' satin, providing a smooth, fast feel that resists sticking during performance. The fingerboard edges are rolled for increased comfort, and the neck heel is sculpted to allow easier access to the upper frets. These modifications focus on reducing physical strain and improving technical mobility across the fretboard.

Daniil Leshchynskyi
Daniil Leshchynskyi

Electronics and Sound

At the heart of the American Professional II Precision Bass is the V-Mod II split single-coil pickup. This pickup is voiced specifically for its position, offering the classic punchy 'growl' associated with the Precision Bass while adding modern clarity and articulation. The result is a versatile sound that can handle vintage Motown thumps as well as contemporary rock and pop definitions.

User Profile

This bass is positioned as an 'unrivalled professional experience,' making it suitable for high-level performers and recording artists. Notable users associated with the brand's contemporary professional line include Daniil Leshchynskyi and Emily Green. It is designed for those who require a reliable, high-fidelity instrument that balances traditional aesthetics with modern mechanical reliability.

Market Comparison

Within the Fender ecosystem, the American Professional II sits above the Player II series, such as the Player II Jazz Bass or the Modified Active Precision Bass, by offering American-made craftsmanship and higher-grade hardware. While budget-friendly alternatives like the Squier Classic Vibe or Gear4Music Chicago packs provide entry-level access to the P-Bass style, the American Professional II is distinguished by its premium finishes, V-Mod II electronics, and refined ergonomics.

Artists who play it

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Frequently asked questions

What pickup is used in the American Professional II Precision Bass?
It uses the V-Mod II split single-coil pickup, which is designed to provide clear articulation while maintaining the classic P-Bass growl.
What is the 'Super-Natural' finish?
It is a specialized satin neck finish designed by Fender to provide a smooth, fast, and frictionless playing experience on the back of the neck.
Does this model have a contoured neck heel?
Yes, it features a sculpted neck heel that allows for more comfortable access to the higher frets compared to traditional square-heeled designs.
What does 'MN' stand for in the product name?
MN stands for Maple Neck (or Maple Fingerboard), indicating the wood used for the playing surface.
How many strings does this bass have?
The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass is a standard 4-string electric bass guitar.
What color is this specific model?
This specific model comes in a classic 3-Tone Sunburst finish.
Are the fingerboard edges treated in any special way?
Yes, the instrument features smooth rolled fingerboard edges for an immediate, 'broken-in' feel and improved comfort.
How does this compare to the Player II series?
The American Professional II is made in the USA and features upgraded V-Mod II pickups and a sculpted heel, whereas the Player II is typically a more affordable series.
Is this bass suitable for professional use?
Yes, Fender describes it as an unrivalled professional experience designed to meet the needs of the modern musician in both live and studio settings.
Who are some famous artists known to use this gear?
Artists such as Daniil Leshchynskyi and Emily Green have been associated with this high-quality Fender equipment.
What is the typical price range for this model?
The Fender American Professional II Precision Bass typically retails for approximately GBP 1879.
What makes the V-Mod II pickup 'versatile'?
It is engineered to provide a balance between vintage warmth and modern crispness, allowing it to adapt to various musical genres from jazz to rock.