Gear article

Fender Standard Jazz Bass (Aqua Marine Metallic)

The Fender Standard Jazz Bass in Aqua Marine Metallic is a four-string electric bass guitar known for its iconic offset design and versatile tonal range. Built with a poplar body and ceramic single-coil pickups, it provides a balance of modern playability and traditional Fender aesthetics.

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Background and Design

The Fender Standard Jazz Bass represents a modern iteration of one of the most influential instruments in contemporary music. This specific model features a sleek Aqua Marine Metallic glossy finish, distinguishing it from traditional sunburst or natural options. The body is constructed from poplar, a tonewood chosen for its resonance and lightweight properties, which reduces physical strain during long performances while maintaining a balanced frequency response.

Technical Specifications

The instrument is designed around a 34-inch scale length and a 'Modern C' maple neck profile. This profile is intended to offer a comfortable grip for players of varying hand sizes. The fingerboard features a 9.5-inch radius, facilitating smooth movement across the strings. Hardware includes a 4-saddle bridge equipped with satin chrome saddles, which is engineered to provide stable tuning and accurate intonation across the entire register of the instrument.

Electronics and Sound Character

At the heart of the instrument's sound are two Fender Standard ceramic single-coil pickups. These electronics are designed to deliver a punchy and articulate tone, offering more output than traditional alnico magnets. This results in a character that is well-suited for 'expressive lines' and 'dynamic grooves.' The dual-pickup configuration allows players to blend bridge and neck signals to achieve everything from bright, growling leads to deep, rounded rhythms.

Target Audience and Application

Given its versatile electronics and ergonomic design, the Standard Jazz Bass suits a wide variety of musical styles, including jazz, rock, funk, and pop. It is positioned as a reliable choice for intermediate players or gigging musicians who require a dependable stage instrument. The lightweight poplar construction makes it particularly suitable for performers who spend significant time standing.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other models in the Fender family, such as the Player II Jazz Bass or the American Professional II, the Standard series serves as a core entry point into the Fender brand. For those seeking a 5-string option, the Squier Classic Vibe Active 70s Jazz Bass V offers an expanded range, while the Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass provides a more artist-specific vintage specification. In contrast to beginner packs like the Visionstring or Chicago series, the Standard Jazz Bass is a standalone professional-grade instrument.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body material of the Fender Standard Jazz Bass?
The body is made of poplar. This choice of wood provides a lightweight feel and a resonant tone suitable for various musical genres.
What type of pickups are installed in this model?
It is equipped with two Fender Standard ceramic single-coil pickups. These are designed to deliver punchy, articulate tones with significant character.
What is the neck profile of this Jazz Bass?
This bass features a Modern C-shaped maple neck. This profile is designed for smooth, comfortable playability and ease of movement.
What is the fingerboard radius?
The fingerboard has a 9.5-inch radius. This measurement is a modern standard for Fender, offering a balance between vintage feel and modern technical playability.
How many strings does this bass have?
This is a standard 4-string bass guitar. It is designed for traditional tuning and standard bass techniques.
What kind of bridge is used on the Fender Standard Jazz Bass?
The instrument uses a 4-saddle bridge with satin chrome saddles. This configuration ensures solid tuning stability and precise intonation.
What is the finish of the body?
The body features a glossy finish in an Aqua Marine Metallic colour. It also includes a classic 3-ply pickguard for a stylish appearance.
Is this bass suitable for professional stage use?
Yes, the manufacturer describes it as being designed for reliability and performance. It is built to bring classic Fender jazz tone to any stage environment.
How does the weight of this bass compare to others?
Because it uses a poplar body, it offers a lightweight feel. This makes it more comfortable for long playing sessions compared to heavier tonewoods.
What price range does this bass typically fall into?
The typical price range for this specific model is approximately GBP 539. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer and current availability.
Does this model come with an amplifier?
No, this is a standalone instrument. For those needing a full kit, alternatives like the Gear4Music Chicago Bass Guitar 15W Pack are available.
How does the Standard Jazz Bass sound compared to a Precision Bass?
The Jazz Bass, with its two single-coil pickups, typically offers a more articulate and versatile sound. In contrast, models like the Modified Active Precision Bass often provide a thicker, more mid-focused punch.