Will this cover fit a five-string Fender Precision Bass?

No, this specific model is designed exclusively for four-string Precision Bass models and is not wide enough to accommodate the five-string variants.

Is the mounting hardware included with the cover?

Typically, mounting screws are sold separately or come with the instrument; you should verify individual retailer listings for screw inclusion.

What material is used to manufacture the cover?

The cover is made from metal and finished with a high-quality chrome plating for a reflective, vintage appearance.

Does this cover provide any electronic shielding?

While it is a metal component, its primary modern purpose is aesthetic. In original 1950s designs, it was intended to help with ground shielding, though modern internal shielding is usually sufficient.

Can I install this on a Squier Precision Bass?

It can often be installed on Squier models, but because hole patterns vary, you may need to drill new mounting holes into the bass body.

What Fender series use this cover as standard equipment?

This cover is commonly found on the American Vintage, Classic, and Road Worn series of Fender Precision Basses.

How does this cover affect plucking technique?

The cover restricts access to the strings directly over the pickup. This forces the player to pluck the strings in front of or behind the cover, which alters the resulting tone.

Is this cover compatible with the Jazz Bass?

No, the Precision Bass pickup cover has a different shape and screw alignment compared to the Jazz Bass pickup cover; they are not interchangeable.

What is the typical price for this Fender accessory?

The retail price for this genuine Fender part is typically around £20.00 in the United Kingdom.

Can it be used to hide string mutes?

Yes, many players install foam muting material under the cover to dampen string vibration, replicating a common 1960s studio technique.

Does it fit the Road Worn Precision Bass?

Yes, it is a standard replacement part that is compatible with the specifications of the Road Worn series.

How do I maintain the chrome finish?

The chrome finish should be wiped down with a soft, dry microfibre cloth after use to prevent pitting or corrosion from sweat and skin oils.

Gear article

Fender Vintage Precision Bass Pickup Cover Chrome

The Fender Vintage Precision Bass Pickup Cover is a chrome-plated metal accessory designed to replicate the aesthetic and ergonomic profile of mid-20th-century electric basses. Frequently utilised on American Vintage, Classic, and Road Worn series instruments, it serves as both a stylistic tribute to the original 1951 design and a functional hand rest for specific playing techniques.

See live prices

Background and Design

The pickup cover, often referred to as a 'chrome ashtray' by musicians, was a standard feature on Fender Precision Basses during the 1950s and 1960s. Originally, Leo Fender included these covers to provide electronic shielding and to clean up the visual appearance of the instrument. In the modern era, Fender produces this vintage-accurate reissue to satisfy players seeking 'period-correct' specifications for their instruments.

Technical Specifications

This specific model is finished in high-polish chrome. It is engineered to fit standard four-string Precision Bass configurations. Because of its dimensions and screw-hole alignment, it is explicitly not compatible with five-string basses or unconventional pickup layouts. It is commonly found as factory hardware on Fender's high-end vintage reissue lines, such as the American Vintage and Road Worn series.

Functional Use and Character

While primarily aesthetic, the cover significantly impacts playing style. It acts as a physical barrier over the pickup, which encourages players to pluck the strings either closer to the neck or nearer the bridge. For some, it serves as a comfortable hand rest; for others, it is used to hide foam muting material placed over the strings to achieve a 'thumpy' vintage tone. It does not electronically alter the sound of the pickup but facilitates the techniques associated with classic bass recordings.

Target Audience

This accessory suits enthusiasts of vintage Fender aesthetics and players who own American Vintage or Classic series basses. It is also a popular choice for those performing 'relic' jobs or restorations on older instruments. Notable users associated with the classic Fender aesthetic include Jean Innemee, who utilised the Precision Bass in a variety of performance contexts.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to generic aftermarket covers, the official Fender Chrome Pickup Cover ensures precise hole alignment for genuine Fender bodies. While luxury cases like the BAM Hightech series or functional bags from Gear4Music protect the entire instrument, this cover is a permanent or semi-permanent hardware modification. Unlike the Gibson PRTR-040 Truss Rod Cover, which is a plastic headstock component, this is a heavy-duty metal body component designed for high-contact areas.

Artists who play it

Jean Innemee
Zanger

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

Will this cover fit a five-string Fender Precision Bass?: No, this specific model is designed exclusively for four-string Precision Bass models and is not wide enough to accommodate the five-string variants.
Is the mounting hardware included with the cover?: Typically, mounting screws are sold separately or come with the instrument; you should verify individual retailer listings for screw inclusion.
What material is used to manufacture the cover?: The cover is made from metal and finished with a high-quality chrome plating for a reflective, vintage appearance.
Does this cover provide any electronic shielding?: While it is a metal component, its primary modern purpose is aesthetic. In original 1950s designs, it was intended to help with ground shielding, though modern internal shielding is usually sufficient.
Can I install this on a Squier Precision Bass?: It can often be installed on Squier models, but because hole patterns vary, you may need to drill new mounting holes into the bass body.
What Fender series use this cover as standard equipment?: This cover is commonly found on the American Vintage, Classic, and Road Worn series of Fender Precision Basses.
How does this cover affect plucking technique?: The cover restricts access to the strings directly over the pickup. This forces the player to pluck the strings in front of or behind the cover, which alters the resulting tone.
Is this cover compatible with the Jazz Bass?: No, the Precision Bass pickup cover has a different shape and screw alignment compared to the Jazz Bass pickup cover; they are not interchangeable.
What is the typical price for this Fender accessory?: The retail price for this genuine Fender part is typically around £20.00 in the United Kingdom.
Can it be used to hide string mutes?: Yes, many players install foam muting material under the cover to dampen string vibration, replicating a common 1960s studio technique.
Does it fit the Road Worn Precision Bass?: Yes, it is a standard replacement part that is compatible with the specifications of the Road Worn series.
How do I maintain the chrome finish?: The chrome finish should be wiped down with a soft, dry microfibre cloth after use to prevent pitting or corrosion from sweat and skin oils.