A Guide to the Fender Precision Bass

When it comes to electric bass guitars, the Fender Precision Bass isn’t just a classic—it’s the blueprint. Introduced in 1951, the P Bass revolutionized the role of bass in modern music, bringing power, portability and pinpoint pitch into a single, stage-ready instrument. Nearly every electric bass since owes it a debt.

Over the decades, the Precision Bass has evolved to become more than a single—and singular—instrument. It’s a full range of tools for players at every level, from gritty garage rockers to studio pros. Whether you’re chasing vintage thump or modern punch, there’s a Precision model that’ll get you there.

From affordable entry points to USA-built workhorses and drool-worthy Fender Custom Shop offerings, we’ll walk you through each model in the current lineup of Fender and Squier Precision Basses. We’ll also compare the P Bass to other popular basses, spotlight iconic players and tracks, and help you figure out which version fits your playing style, your music—and your hands—the best.

Table of Contents

A Guide to the Fender Precision Bass
Famous P-Bass Players and Featured Tracks
How Does the Fender Precision Bass Compare to Other Popular Basses?
The Bottom Line
People Also Ask ...

A Guide to the Fender Precision Bass

Between Fender and Squier, there's a wider variety of Precision Bass models today than ever. From affordable entry-level options that still boast a vintage vibe, to high-end instruments crafted by master luthiers, there's a P Bass for every player and every budget.

 

Pictured: Fender American Professional II Limited-Edition Precision Bass in Eclipse

Squier Sonic Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: This lightweight, affordable Sonic P Bass delivers the classic split-coil tone in a sleek Surf Green finish that’s pure retro fun.

Things to Consider:

• Slim, comfortable neck ideal for new players or guitarists doubling on bass
• Classic split single-coil pickup for punchy lows and midrange presence
• Also available in Black, California Blue and 2-Color Sunburst for added vibe options

 

Shop Now: Squier Sonic Limited-Edition Precision Bass in Surf Green

If you’re just starting out or want something low commitment with high style, the Squier Sonic Precision Bass is a great entry point. It’s got that unmistakable P Bass bark, a fast neck and colors that practically beg to be played live. Surf Green’s the standout, but all the finishes look sharp on stage or in the studio.

Squier Affinity Series Limited-Edition PJ Bass

Why It's Cool: By combining Precision and Jazz Bass pickups, this PJ configuration gives you versatile tones in a timeless finish.

Things to Consider:

• P-style pickup brings the thump; J-style adds definition and bite
• Great for players exploring different styles from funk to punk
• Lightweight poplar body with a smooth-playing neck

Shop Now: Squier Affinity Series Limited-Edition PJ Bass Guitar in 3-Color Sunburst

Need a bit more tonal flexibility than a straight-up P Bass can offer? The Squier Affinity limited-edition PJ bass gives you the best of both worlds: Precision punch up front, Jazz snap in the back. It’s perfect for players who like to experiment or switch genres without switching basses.

Squier Limited-Edition Classic Vibe '70s Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: This Squier Limited-Edition Classic Vibe ’70s Precision nods to the bold styling and sound of that decade's Fender basses, with vintage vibes and refined playability.

Things to Consider:

• Fender-designed split-coil pickup with punchy output and rich tone
• Maple neck with block inlays and binding for that classic ’70s look
•  Also available in ’50s and ’60s Classic Vibe models for era-specific tone and feel

Shop Now: Squier Limited-Edition Classic Vibe '70s Precision Bass in Surf Green

Vintage style without the vintage price tag—that’s the promise of the Classic Vibe line, and this ’70s P Bass nails it. From the surf green finish to the block inlays, it looks the part and sounds legit, with a fat, focused tone that holds its own in any band mix. And, if the ’70s vibe isn’t your thing, don’t worry—there are Classic Vibe ’50s and ’60s versions available too, each with its own unique tone and aesthetic.

Fender Vintera II '60s Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: Get authentic ’60s specs, build quality and tone, with all the mojo and none of the museum-case fragility.

Things to Consider:

• Mid-’60s C-shape neck with rosewood fingerboard and vintage frets
• Split-coil pickup voiced for warm, woody punch
• Olympic White finish pops under stage lights

Shop Now: Fender Vintera II '60s Precision Bass in Olympic White

This is the one if you’re chasing that golden-era Fender feel but want something reliable enough for gigging. The Vintera II ’60s P Bass brings it home with a tone that flat-out works—whether you’re laying down grooves or holding down a trio. And, if you're feeling even more retro, check out the Vintera II ’50s Precision Bass.

Fender Standard Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: This no-nonsense, road-ready P Bass delivers classic tone in a clean, contemporary build.

Things to Consider:

• Solid alder body with a crisp-sounding maple fingerboard
• Split single-coil pickup delivers classic P Bass growl
• Available with rosewood fingerboard for a warmer top end

Shop Now: Fender Standard Precision Bass in Olympic White

If you just need a solid Precision Bass that gets the job done, the Fender Standard P Bass model is a go-to. No frills, no flash—just that familiar feel and punch that drops into any mix without fuss.

Fender Player II Limited-Edition Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: This special limited-edition finish pairs with upgraded hardware and feel—classic tones meet stage-ready style.

Things to Consider:

• Alder body and maple neck offer bright, articulate response
• Modern split-coil pickup for reliable tones across genres
• Also available with rosewood fingerboard for added warmth

Shop Now: Fender Player II Limited-Edition Precision bass in Ocean Turquoise

The Player II line walks the line between traditional and contemporary—and this limited-edition version does it with style. Ocean Turquoise looks killer under lights, and the feel is fast without losing that classic Fender vibe.

Fender Player II Modified Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: Hot-rodded for contemporary players the Player II Modified P-bass brings upgraded electronics, sculpted body contours and versatile control options to the game.

Things to Consider:

• High-output pickups with extra edge for rock and heavier genres
• Contoured neck heel and rolled edges for enhanced playability
• Great for players who need more flexibility without leaving the P Bass universe

Shop Now: Fender Player II Modified Precision Bass with Rosewood Fingerboard in Olympic Pearl

This is the one for players who love the P Bass sound but want a little more bite and comfort built in. From stage to studio, the Player II Modified Precision Bass is ready to flex with you—no mods required.

Fender Player II Moonlight Drive Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: Dark looks and a Duncan SPB-3 pickup give this limited-edition P Bass extra punch and attitude.

Things to Consider:

• Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound pickup for aggressive output
• Unique Moonlight Drive finish gives it a stealthy edge
• Same great feel and balance as the rest of the Player II line

Shop Now: Fender Player II Limited-Edition Moonlight Drive Precision Bass

This limited-edition Fender Player II Moonlight Drive P Bass carries a bit of a chip on its shoulder—in the best way. It’s got more output, more growl and a sleek look that’s all business. If you play loud, this one’s ready to meet you there, and it won't say, "What?"

Fender American Performer Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: Handbuilt in Corona, CA, this U.S.-made P Bass combines classic tones with player-focused refinements and a killer satin finish.

Things to Consider:

• Yosemite pickup delivers vintage warmth with modern clarity
• Greasebucket tone circuit rolls off highs without losing low-end punch
• Rosewood fingerboard version also available

Shop Now: Fender American Performer Precision Bass with Maple Fingerboard in Satin Lake Placid Blue

This one’s for players who want classic P Bass tone with just enough modern polish to feel stage-ready out of the case. The Fender American Performer Precision Bass has got warmth, presence, and that smooth rolled-edge feel that makes you want to keep playing.

Fender American Professional II Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: Fender’s most popular U.S.-made P Bass blends vintage soul with modern versatility and top-tier craftsmanship.

Things to Consider:

• V-Mod II pickup for nuanced tone that responds to touch and dynamics
• Slim C neck profile with rolled edges for a broken-in feel
• Also available with rosewood fingerboard, 5-string configuration and limited-edition finishes

Shop Now: Fender American Professional II Precision Bass with Maple Fingerboard in 3-Color Sunburst

If you’re looking for one bass to cover all your gigs, sessions and projects, the Fender American Professional  II Precision Bass is a serious contender. Balanced, responsive and built to last, it’s everything a modern P Bass should be—without losing the spirit of the original.

Fender American Ultra II Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: The most advanced P Bass in Fender’s regular production lineup, the Fender American Ultra II Precision Bass is packed with premium appointments, Noiseless pickups and high-performance hardware.

Things to Consider:

• Ultra Noiseless pickup with active/passive switching for maximum flexibility
• Compound-radius fingerboard and sculpted neck heel for effortless playability
• Also available with ebony fingerboard

Shop Now: Fender American Ultra II Precision Bass with Maple Fingerboard in Ultraburst

This is a P Bass for players who demand more—from their gear and themselves. It’s sleek, silent and shockingly fast, with tones that range from clean and classic to punchy and aggressive. If you’re moving between styles or playing extended sets, the Ultra II’s ergonomics and control layout are hard to beat.

Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: The Fender American Vintage II 1960 is a faithful reissue that nails the look, feel and sound of a 1960 P Bass with vintage hardware and period-correct tone.

Things to Consider:

• Slab rosewood fingerboard and vintage frets
• Pure Vintage ’60 split-coil pickup for authentic warmth and clarity
• Nitro finish and classic Olympic White aesthetic

Shop Now: Fender American Vintage II 1960 Precision Bass in Olympic White

This one’s for the Precision purists. Everything from the neck carve to the pickup windings is built to transport you straight to 1960. It’s not just vintage-inspired—it’s vintage realized. And in case you're even more nostalgic, check out the American Vintage II 1954 model—as close as you're likely to get to Fender's original design without a second mortgage.

Fender Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: The Guns N’ Roses low-end tone machine, complete with PJ pickups and a rock-ready aesthetic.

Things to Consider:

• Seymour Duncan pickups and TBX tone circuit
• Satin-finish neck with block inlays and binding
• Hipshot drop-D tuner for instant tuning shifts

Shop Now: Fender Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass in Black

If your set list leans heavy, this bass is ready to lean with it. The Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass brings grit and control in equal measure, with a blend of attitude and precision that fits everything from punk to arena rock.

Fender Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: Built for Iron Maiden’s galloping low end, this signature model is loud—in looks and tone.

Things to Consider:

• Custom Seymour Duncan SPB-4 pickup voiced to Steve Harris’s specs
• Maple neck with a gloss finish and West Ham United badge
• Striking pinstriped body and mirrored pickguard

Shop Now: Fender Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass in Olympic White with Pinstripe

This isn’t just a signature model—it’s a statement. It’s fast, aggressive and unapologetically British metal. Whether or not you play the Fender Steve Harris Signature P Bass with two fingers and a full stack, this thing delivers power by the fistful.

Fender Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: A fretless P Bass designed for serious tone exploration, with pro-level features and killer looks.

Things to Consider:

• Ebony fingerboard with side markers only
• PJ pickup setup with 3-way switch for tonal variety
• Drop-D tuner and signature bridge for perfect intonation

Shop Now: Fender Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass in Lake Placid Blue

If you want to glide, sing and growl in the same phrase, this fretless delivers. The Fender Tony Franklin Fretless Precision Bass is as musical as it is expressive, making it ideal for jazz, fusion or ambient work.

Fender Troy Sanders Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: A beastly P Bass with Mastodon-approved tones and visual punch.

Things to Consider:

• PJ pickup configuration for modern flexibility
• Custom artwork and Mastodon logo inlay
• Dual-output jack for stereo effects setups

Shop Now: Fender Troy Sanders Precision Bass in Silverburst

The Fender Troy Sanders Precision Bass has more personality than most full pedalboards. The tones are massive, the finish turns heads and the dual-output option is a wild card for sonic adventurers.

Fender Mike Dirnt Road Worn Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: A thrashed-up tribute to Green Day’s early days, with old-school looks and punk energy.

Things to Consider:

• Slab body and thick C neck profile
• Custom split-coil pickup voiced hot and raw
• Light relic finish gives it a gig-tested look

Shop Now: Fender Mike Dirnt Road Worn Precision Bass with Maple Fingerboard in White Blonde

It’s not polite, it’s not subtle—and that’s the point. This Fender Mike Dirnt Road Worn P Bass is for players who want to show up, plug in and get loud. If you’ve got three chords and something to yell about, this bass is already halfway there. If you dig rosewood over maple for a fingerboard, you can get that too.

Fender Nate Mendel Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: A straightforward, no-nonsense P Bass with killer tone and the Foo Fighters seal of approval.

Things to Consider:

• Slim profile neck with high-mass bridge
• Custom Seymour Duncan pickup for high-output clarity
• Based on Nate’s ‘71 Precision

Shop Now: Fender Nate Mendel Precision Bass with Rosewood Fingerboard in Candy Apple Red

It’s simple, solid and built to take a beating. Nate Mendel’s signature P Bass model is one of the most underrated modern P Basses out there—perfect for players who care more about tone and feel than flash.

Fender Custom Shop 1951 Limited-Edition Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: A lovingly relic’d throwback to the earliest P Bass design, straight from the Fender Custom Shop.

Things to Consider:

• Handwound single-coil pickup with vintage wiring
• Relic’d nitro finish and aged hardware
• Full-on ’50s neck with big shoulders

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop 1951 Limited-Edition Precision Bass Journeyman Relic in Nocaster Blonde

It’s part art piece, part tone monster. With a vibe that feels like it’s lived through a few world tours, the Fender Custom Shop 1951 Limited-Edition Precision Bass is perfect for collectors and vintage tone chasers who want the real thing—without the museum glass.

Fender Custom Shop 1959 Precision Bass

Why It's Cool: A pristine ‘59 reissue from Fender’s Time Machine series the Fender Custom Shop 1959 Precision Bass is loaded with attention to all the fine details.

Things to Consider:

• NOS (New Old Stock) finish with no relic’ing
• ‘59-style split-coil pickup with wide, warm output
• Slab rosewood fingerboard and vintage clay dot inlays

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop 1959 Precision Bass NOS Time Machine Limited-Edition in Black

It’s what a P Bass looked and felt like brand new in 1959—just without the 65-year wait. Clear, punchy and loaded with that mid-century magic, this one’s for players who want pure tone and perfect craftsmanship.

Famous P-Bass Players and Featured Tracks

Pictured: Fender 1955 Precision Bass in Blonde

John Deacon, "Under Pressure," Queen (1982)

After crafting an extraordinarily funky and memorable bass riff in 1980 with “Another One Bites the Dust,” Deacon did it again for 1981’s “Under Pressure.” Deacon remained loyal to the Precision in the studio and onstage for most of his career with Queen.

Donald "Duck" Dunn, "Time is Tight," Booker T. & the M.G.'s (1993)

Dunn’s deep-in-the-pocket playing with Steve Cropper on records for Stax/Volt and Atlantic's soul records laid the foundation for Southern soul. His P Bass tone was fat, supportive and never in the way—just like a great groove should be.

Eva Gardner, "Try," P!nk (Live)

“I always start with my foundation of a Fender Precision Bass,” Gardner told Bass Magazine. It’s a tonal touchstone shaped by her late father, Kim Gardner (The Creation), whose 1962 Fiesta Red P Bass is her “absolute prized possession.”

Steve Harris, "The Trooper," Iron Maiden (1983)

Fast, percussive fingerstyle playing with galloping rhythms and signature clang. Steve Harris’s P Bass tone in Iron Maiden is unmistakable.

James Jamerson, "What's Going On," Marvin Gaye (1971)

Jamerson’s syncopated, melodic style defined the Motown sound—and he did it all on a ’62 P Bass with dead flatwounds and a foam mute. His tone and touch became the soul blueprint.

Carol Kaye, "Good Vibrations," The Beach Boys (1974)

One of the most recorded bassists in history, Kaye brought a pick-driven snap to the P Bass that punched through mixes from Phil Spector to Quincy Jones. She made the P Bass sing in every genre.

Nate Mendel, "My Hero," Foo Fighters (1997)

Mendel’s tone with Foo Fighters is a masterclass in “less is more.” His P Bass sits perfectly in the mix—always supporting, never overpowering.

Moa Muñoz, "Obsessed," Olivia Rodrigo (Live)

Muñoz blends soul and Latin rock with a punchy, vocal P Bass tone—fluid, melodic and deeply rhythmic.

Chuck Rainey, "Rock Steady," Aretha Franklin (1972)

Session legend Rainey brought sophisticated jazz phrasing to the Precision, blending pocket and melody with ease. His fingerprints are all over ’70s soul, from Quincy to Steely Dan.

Sting, "Message in a Bottle," The Police (Live)

“I love my 1954 Fender Precision,” Sting told Bass Player in 2000. “It’s just a wreck, and something about that appeals to me. An old instrument is something to be cherished. I think they absorb and retain energy.”

How Does the Fender Precision Bass Compare to Other Popular Basses?

The Precision Bass might be simple by design, but its voice and feel make it a perennial favorite—even in a world full of modern options. Here’s how it stacks up against a few of its most common counterparts.

Pictured: Fender 1962 Precision Bass Headstock

Precision Bass vs. the Jazz Bass:

The P Bass has a wider nut width and chunkier neck feel, giving it a more solid, planted presence in the hands. Tonally, it leans toward a warm, rounded midrange that sits right in the pocket, with less of the scooped clarity you’ll hear from a Jazz Bass’s bridge pickup. And with a single volume and tone control, there’s less to tweak and more to play.

Interested in learning more about the Jazz Bass? Check out our Guide to the Fender Jazz Bass.

Precision Bass vs. the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay:

Compared to the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay’s active electronics and aggressive high end, the Precision Bass offers a more vintage-voiced, passive tone. It’s less about cutting through with bite and more about laying a deep, consistent foundation that blends with drums and guitars instead of competing with them.

One of Leo Fender's lesser-known designs, the StingRay is a legendary bass in its own right. Learn more in our Guide to the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Bass.

Precision Bass vs. PJ or multi-pickup basses:

While some modern basses offer a wider range of tones with multiple pickups or active EQs, the P Bass wins on consistency and ease of use. Set your tone knob once, dig in and let your fingers shape the rest. That simplicity is part of its magic.

In the end, the Precision Bass doesn’t try to do everything. It just does one thing really, really well. It’s not a bass that demands attention—it earns it.

Still need more help deciding if the Precision Bass is right for you? Read our guide on How to Choose the Best Bass Guitar to break down the fundamentals a bit further.

The Bottom Line

Every player’s journey is different, but the right instrument makes all the difference. Whether you’re chasing the classic tones of your heroes or carving out something entirely your own, the Precision Bass has the range, the feel and the voice to go wherever your music takes you.

From affordable Squier models to Custom Shop showstoppers, there’s a P Bass waiting with your next groove in it. The best way to find it? Head to your local Guitar Center, plug in and see which one fits your hands—and your ears—the best. Or connect with your personal Gear Adviser for one-on-one guidance.

And wherever your playing takes you next, keep going. Keep practicing. Keep grooving. We want to hear what you’re working on.

Pictured: Fender 1962 Precision Bass Split-Coil Pickup

People Also Ask ...

What’s the difference between a Fender Precision and Jazz Bass?

The Precision Bass has a wider neck, a single split-coil pickup and a punchier midrange tone that sits deep in the mix. The Jazz Bass offers two pickups, a slimmer neck and a brighter, more scooped sound with more tonal flexibility.

Is the Precision Bass good for beginners?

Absolutely. Its simple control layout, comfortable balance and consistent tone make it a favorite for first-time players and pros alike.

Which genres is the P Bass best suited for?

The Precision Bass shows up in rock, punk, soul, R&B, country and more. Its warm, focused tone works equally well for locking in with a drummer or driving a mix with authority.

Pictured: Fender 1962 Precision Bass in Olympic White

What kind of pickups does a Precision Bass have?

Most P Basses use a split single-coil pickup in the middle position. Even though it’s not labeled a humbucker, its reverse-wound, reverse-polarity design gives it hum-canceling properties—essentially functioning as a humbucker in practice. The result is a clear, punchy tone with reduced noise, perfect for cutting through a mix without harshness.

What’s the difference between Squier and Fender Precision Basses?

Squier models are more budget-friendly, often made with different materials and hardware, while Fender models offer upgraded components, build quality and finishes. Both deliver the core P Bass experience—Squier is great for getting started, Fender steps things up for the long haul.