Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass ‘77 Review
The Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass has been my go-to instrument for touring and recording for the last 6 years. In my opinion, it is one of the better bass guitars for beginner to intermediate levels.
In this article, I will give you an accurate description of what it’s like to own and play this bass guitar.
Contents
Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass ‘77
Pros
- Well-crafted Neck
- Good Body Design
- High-Quality Electronics
- Value For Price
- Low-Maintenance
Cons
- Minor Finger Movement Restrictions
- Not A Great Bridge Pickup
Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass ‘77
This standard Jazz Bass ‘77 issue was designed for compatibility and motion to ease bass playing in general for beginner to intermediate players. Its design features 20 medium jumbo frets, with a very well-crafted neck which seems to be the biggest positive for not just me, but a lot of bass players who own this bass guitar.
A few key components for any bass are, firstly, the body and the neck design since this relates to the playability and motion you require. Secondly, weight is very important, seeing as playing a 2-hour gig might take a toll on you if the bass is super heavy. You want freedom of movement, whether it be at home or during a gig. You want the bass to suit your preference, regarding weight, shape, and feel, in order to get the most out of it.
Specifications
Model
-Model Number: s/n ICS10133413
-Model Name: Vintage Modified Jazz Bass ‘77
-Series: Vintage Modified
Body
-Body Color: Black
-Body Material: Agathis
Neck
-Neck Shape: Modern “C”
-Neck Material: Maple
-Neck Finish: Polyurethane
-Number Of Frets: 20
-Fret size: Medium Jumbo
-Fretboard Radius: 9.5″
-Scale Length: 34″
-Nut width: 1.5
Electronics
-Pickup Configuration: S/S
-Pickups: Duncan Designed JB101 Single-Coil Jazz Bass Pickups
-Controls: Volume 1. (Neck Pickup), Volume 2. (Bridge Pickup), Master Tone
Hardware
-Hardware: Chrome
-Neck Plate: Standard 4 Bolt
-Bridge: Standard 4-Saddle
-String Nut: Synthetic Bone
Pricing
The Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass is a relatively affordable bass based on its quality (see here for an up-to-date price) Also there are a few Jazz Bass issues similar to this one, so make sure you read the description first and get an accurate view of which one it is. Since the price might be way up for more standard and high-quality issues.
Pros
- Has a well-crafted neck with near-perfect width to have the freedom of motion you require.
- The body is smooth, which gives the bass an incredible look, and allows more soft contact while resting your hand during playing.
- Has great standard-issue electronics. The pickups produce a surprisingly good quality sound for a bass of this caliber. The volume knobs are sensitive and smooth.
- Worth the money. The value you get from a bass guitar of this price range is incredible. It’s one of the better bass guitars for beginner to intermediate levels.
- It’s low-maintenance. Just the regular cleaning and changing of the strings should keep this bass in great shape and sound.
Cons
- While trying to play upper-register stuff, you kind of get neck-blocked by the wood that prevents your fingers from sliding all the way down the neck (minor issue but worth mentioning).
- The bridge pickup lacks a bit of punch to it, compared to other bass guitars.
Summary
The Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass is for beginner to intermediate levels. This model is very well-crafted with a superb neck and body design and near-perfect neck width. Keep in mind that it has great electronics implemented in the standard issue with the Duncan Designed JB101 Single-Coil Jazz Bass Pickups.
Considering the price you pay for this bass guitar, you get a very good quality bass and sound. Personally, I’ve had it for 6 years and counting, and it is in great shape. With regular cleaning and changing the strings, it’s a surprise to me that it still holds up to this day.
Just the overall visual of the bass is pretty good-looking. Combined with its quality and price, it’s really hard to find something similar in that area. That’s why in my honest opinion I think it’s one of the better bass guitars out there for beginner to intermediate levels.
