The resurgence of the offset body shape in guitars has been undeniable in recent years. Similarly, the combination of Precision (P) and Jazz (J) style pickups in basses is a time-tested formula. However, Fender has masterfully blended these classic elements in their Player Series Jaguar Bass, creating an instrument that is both familiar and refreshingly new. This bass guitar takes the iconic offset silhouette and marries it with the powerful and versatile P/J pickup configuration, delivering a sound and style that is distinctly Fender, yet uniquely its own.
The Fender Player Series Jaguar Bass expertly navigates familiar Fender bass territory in terms of design and specifications. It starts with a recognizable P-bass style headstock, complete with open-back tuning machines, a synthetic nut, and a comfortable 20 medium jumbo fret maple fingerboard adorned with classic black dot markers. The neck profile is a modern “C” shape, known for its comfortable and accessible feel, and maintains a standard 34″ scale length. The satin finish on the neck of our test model contributed to a smooth and fast playing experience, while the gloss finish on the maple fretboard provided a slick and traditional Fender feel. All these elements combine to create a playing experience that is instantly familiar to Fender enthusiasts.
The alder body of the Player Series Jaguar Bass is finished in an eye-catching “tidepool” blue metallic-esque color. This finish, available with the maple fingerboard, adds a modern visual appeal to the classic offset body. The bass features a top-loading bridge, a design choice that results in less string bend compared to a through-body stringing method. This bridge, with its chrome plating, presents a contemporary update to the traditional Fender bass bridge, evoking a subtle vintage aesthetic reminiscent of early 1960s Detroit muscle car design. It’s worth noting that the Tidepool finish is specifically paired with a maple fingerboard, while the Sage Green and Sonic Red versions are offered with a Pau Ferro fingerboard, and come at a slightly higher price point of $679 compared to the Tidepool’s accessible $649 street price.
Electrically, the Jaguar Bass boasts a powerful and versatile pickup configuration. In the neck position, you’ll find a punchy P-style pickup, providing that foundational low-end thump that is essential for many genres of music. The bridge position is equipped with a split J-bass style pickup, adding a brighter, more articulate dimension to the sonic palette. The control layout is straightforward and intuitive, featuring individual volume controls for each pickup, allowing for precise blending of the P and J tones. A master tone control, distinguished by a slightly smaller knob at the end of the chrome control plate, shapes the overall character of the bass.
Sonically, the Fender Jaguar Bass truly offers the best of both worlds. The P-style neck pickup delivers a robust and full-bodied tone, providing a solid foundation for any mix. When you bring in the J-style bridge pickup, it adds a welcome punch and articulation, creating a balanced and versatile sound. With both pickups at full volume – a common setting for many players – the bass produces a powerful and expansive tone without sacrificing clarity or definition. Players are encouraged to experiment with the individual pickup volumes to discover their own preferred tonal blends, unlocking a wide range of sonic possibilities. The master tone control is also remarkably flexible, offering a smooth transition from bright and articulate to warm and mellow without becoming muddy when rolled off. It interacts seamlessly with both pickups, further expanding the tonal versatility of the instrument.
While some might initially perceive the Jaguar Bass as a vintage-inspired throwback, it possesses a distinctly modern edge. There’s a subtle aggressiveness and a crisp attack to its sound, likely attributed to the combination of the maple neck and fingerboard. Players who appreciate the classic P-bass sound but find traditional P-bass necks to be too substantial will find the comfortable “C” shape of the Jaguar Bass neck to be a welcome alternative. Fans of the tight, focused tone of maple-necked J basses, reminiscent of players like Geddy Lee, will appreciate the articulate grind that the J-style pickup brings to the table. Furthermore, the offset Jaguar body is not only visually appealing but also exceptionally comfortable and balanced, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles and stage settings.
In conclusion, the Fender Player Series Jaguar Bass can be aptly described as a “resto-mod” bass – blending classic aesthetics and tones with modern playability and feel. For any bassist seeking the iconic and versatile P/J pickup combination in a stylish and comfortable package, the Jaguar Bass is an outstanding choice. Fender, the originators of these classic bass designs, have once again demonstrated their ability to innovate and refine, creating an instrument that honors its heritage while confidently embracing the needs of the modern player.
PROS:
- Classic P & J Bass Sounds
- Comfortable Modern Neck Profile
- Sonically Versatile and Balanced
- Stylish Offset Body Design
CONS:
- None Noted
STREET PRICE:
- $649 (Tidepool Finish with Maple Fingerboard)
