Squier Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass Guitar Review
When it comes to bass guitars, Squier has a reputation for delivering quality instruments at an affordable price. The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Precision Bass (P-Bass) is no exception. This instrument is more than just a nod to the golden era of bass guitar design; it’s a reincarnation that brings vintage aesthetics, tone, and playability into the modern age.
Design & Aesthetics
The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass is a beautiful instrument that pays homage to its rich ancestry. It features a solid poplar body with a glossy finish, available in several classic colors like 3-color sunburst and Olympic White. Its retro aesthetic is further enhanced by the tortoiseshell pickguard, chrome hardware, and period-correct headstock markings.
The maple neck has a “C”-shaped profile, which is comfortable for most hand sizes. It’s topped with a 9.5″-radius Indian laurel fingerboard with 20 narrow-tall frets. This bass feels comfortable to play, both in terms of the neck shape and the fret size. The vintage-tint gloss neck finish gives it a well-worn feel and a visually appealing contrast against the body.
Sound & Performance
The Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass houses a Fender-Designed alnico split-coil pickup, a nod to the original Precision Bass design. This pickup delivers a warm, rounded tone with plenty of punch, capturing the essence of the iconic ’60s P-Bass sound.
Whether you’re playing fingerstyle, with a pick, or slapping, this bass responds beautifully. It has a deep, resonant low end, a full-bodied midrange, and articulate highs. The volume and tone controls are responsive, allowing you to dial in a wide range of sounds. From the growling rock tones to the mellow grooves of jazz and R&B, the tonal versatility of this instrument is impressive.
Playability
The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass has a reputation for its excellent playability. The “C”-shaped neck profile fits comfortably in the hand, while the narrow-tall frets make for easy fingering and clean articulation. The 9.5” radius is a modern feature that facilitates comfortable chording and soloing, especially for those with smaller hands.
The synthetic bone nut and vintage-style bridge enhance sustain and resonance. The vintage-style open-gear tuning machines not only add to the retro vibe but also provide stable and precise tuning.
Value for Money
One of the standout features of the Squier Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass is its value for money. Given its price point, the build quality, sound, and playability are exceptional. This bass could easily hold its own against more expensive models.
It’s an excellent choice for beginners looking for a quality first bass, or for more experienced players seeking a reliable backup or gigging instrument. It’s also a great option for vintage gear enthusiasts who want the classic P-Bass experience without the vintage price tag.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Squier Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass is a fantastic instrument that successfully combines vintage aesthetics and tone with modern playability. It’s built to a high standard, sounds great, plays comfortably, and is competitively priced.
This bass is a testament to Squier’s commitment to making quality instruments accessible to all players. Whether you’re a newbie bassist, a seasoned pro, or a vintage gear lover, the Classic Vibe ’60s P-Bass is worth considering. It’s a piece of history brought back to life, ready to groove in the modern world.
