Gear article
Fender Player II Precision Bass RW Polar White
The Fender Player II Precision Bass is a four-string electric bass guitar that combines traditional Fender design with contemporary performance enhancements. It features a contoured alder body and Alnico V split-coil pickups, designed to provide the classic 'P-Bass' tone for modern musicians.

Overview
The Fender Player II Precision Bass in Polar White represents the latest evolution of Fender’s entry-point for professional-grade instruments. Built around the foundational design of the original 1951 Precision Bass, this model integrates modern manufacturing standards to meet the demands of touring and recording artists. It features a solid alder body, known for its balanced weight and resonant qualities, and is finished in a clean Polar White gloss.
Design and Construction
This instrument is constructed with a focus on ergonomics and tactile comfort. The modern 'C'-shaped maple neck is finished in satin, which reduces friction and allows for faster movement across the fretboard compared to high-gloss alternatives. A notable upgrade in the Player II series is the inclusion of a 9.5-inch radius rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges, a feature typically found on higher-priced models to improve hand comfort during long sessions. The hardware consists of an adjustable 4-saddle bridge and standard open-gear tuners, ensuring reliable intonation and tuning stability.

Electronics and Sound
The sonic heart of the instrument is the Player Series Alnico V split single-coil pickup. Alnico V magnets are utilized to produce a higher output and broader frequency response than Alnico II or ceramic magnets. The resulting tone is characterised by a rich low-end foundation, punchy mid-range presence, and clear high-frequency articulation. This balanced profile makes the bass versatile enough to handle genres ranging from rock and blues to funk and pop.
Market Positioning and Alternatives
Priced at approximately £805, the Player II Precision Bass occupies the mid-tier market. It serves as a significant upgrade from entry-level options like the Squier Classic Vibe series or basic starter packs such as the VISIONSTRING or Chicago Bass Guitar bundles. While it offers a more traditional passive experience compared to the Fender Player II Modified Active Precision Bass, it remains a more accessible alternative to the premium Fender American Professional II series or artist-specific models like the Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the body material of the Fender Player II Precision Bass?
- The body is made of alder. This wood is chosen for its balanced tonal characteristics and comfortable weight during long playing sessions.
- What type of pickups does this model use?
- It uses Alnico V split-coil pickups. These are designed to provide a balanced tone with rich lows, punchy mids, and clear highs.
- What is the neck profile of this bass?
- The instrument features a modern 'C' neck profile. It is designed to offer a smooth and fast playing experience suitable for most hand sizes.
- What kind of fingerboard does the Polar White model have?
- This specific model features a rosewood (RW) fingerboard. The fingerboard includes rolled edges for an added touch of comfort and luxury.
- What is the fingerboard radius?
- The fingerboard has a 9.5-inch radius. This is a standard modern Fender specification that balances comfort for chordal work and lead lines.
- What finish is applied to the back of the neck?
- The neck has a satin finish. This provides a smooth, non-stick surface that facilitates faster movement compared to gloss finishes.
- How many strings does the Player II Precision Bass have?
- It is a standard 4-string bass guitar. This makes it ideal for classic Precision Bass applications across multiple genres.
- What bridge system is installed on this bass?
- It features an adjustable 4-saddle bridge. This allows for precise control over individual string height and intonation.
- What kind of tuners are included?
- The bass is equipped with Fender open-gear tuners. These provide reliable tuning stability and a classic aesthetic.
- Is this bass suitable for beginners?
- While it is a professional-grade instrument, its modern playability features like rolled edges and a satin neck make it very accessible for beginners. However, it is priced higher than entry-level Squier models.
- How does this differ from the Player II Jazz Bass?
- The Precision Bass uses a split-coil pickup for a punchy, mid-heavy sound, whereas the Jazz Bass typically uses two single-coil pickups for a brighter, more versatile tone. The body shapes and neck widths also differ significantly between the two.
- Does this model feature active electronics?
- No, this is a passive instrument. If you require active electronics, the Player II Modified Active Precision Bass would be the appropriate alternative in the same series.
