Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass Left-Handed Electric Bass Review
When it comes to budget-friendly, high-quality instruments, Squier has always been a reliable brand. The Classic Vibe series is no exception, offering excellent craftsmanship and sound quality at an affordable price. In this review, we will take an in-depth look at the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass Left-Handed Electric Bass, a perfect option for left-handed bassists seeking that classic 70s sound.
Overview
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass is a left-handed electric bass guitar that pays homage to the iconic Fender Jazz Bass from the 1970s. This bass features a solid poplar body, a maple neck with a slim “C” profile, and a 20-fret Indian laurel fingerboard. It is equipped with two Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities. With its vintage-style appointments and modern playability, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass is an attractive option for left-handed players looking for an affordable, high-quality instrument.
Design and Build Quality
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass boasts a solid poplar body, which contributes to its lightweight and comfortable feel. The body is finished with a gloss polyurethane coating, ensuring durability and protection against wear and tear. The bass is available in three classic finishes: Black, Natural, and 3-Color Sunburst, each showcasing the beautiful wood grain underneath.
The maple neck is attached to the body with a traditional bolt-on construction, providing excellent stability and sustain. The slim “C” profile of the neck allows for easy playability, especially for those with smaller hands or who prefer a thinner neck. The 20-fret Indian laurel fingerboard has a 9.5-inch radius, offering a comfortable playing surface that accommodates various playing styles.
The headstock features vintage-style open-gear tuning machines, ensuring accurate and stable tuning. A synthetic bone nut further enhances tuning stability and contributes to the overall tonal quality of the instrument.
Electronics and Hardware
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass comes equipped with two Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups, delivering a rich and versatile sound that captures the essence of the original 70s Jazz Bass. The pickups are controlled by two volume knobs and one master tone control, allowing you to shape your sound to suit your playing style and preferences.
The 4-saddle vintage-style bridge provides excellent intonation and sustain, while the knurled flat-top control knobs and nickel-plated hardware add to the bass’s vintage aesthetic.
Sound and Performance
One of the most notable aspects of the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass is its impressive tonal range. The combination of the Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups and the poplar body produces a warm, full-bodied sound with plenty of low-end thump and mid-range punch. The bridge pickup offers a bright and articulate tone, perfect for cutting through a mix or playing slap bass. The neck pickup, on the other hand, delivers a smooth and rounded sound, ideal for fingerstyle playing or laying down a solid groove.
The individual volume controls for each pickup allow you to blend the two sounds together, creating a wide array of tonal possibilities. From deep, rounded tones to bright and snappy sounds, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass has you covered.
The bass’s playability is also noteworthy. The slim “C” profile neck and 9.5-inch fingerboard radius make it easy to navigate the frets and accommodate various playing techniques. The 20 medium jumbo frets are well-dressed and comfortable, ensuring a smooth playing experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable, high-quality instrument
- Vintage aesthetic with modern playability
- Wide tonal range with Fender-designed pickups
- Lightweight and comfortable to play
- Suitable for various playing styles and genres
Cons
- Some players may prefer a thicker neck profile
- Indian laurel fingerboard might not be as appealing as rosewood to some players
Conclusion
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass Left-Handed Electric Bass is an excellent option for left-handed bassists seeking a budget-friendly, high-quality instrument with a vintage vibe. With its solid build quality, comfortable playability, and versatile sound, this bass is suitable for players of all skill levels and various musical genres. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add a classic 70s sound to your collection, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass is well worth considering.
