If you’re wondering if Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is a good guitar or not, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place! In today’s review, I’m going to take a very close look on that mid-level bass. Surely, it’s a really popular model, but is it actually worth it?
The truth is that Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is an excellent guitar. Whether you decide to choose the ’60s or the ’70s version, you won’t be disappointed. This particular Squier can easily compete with some of the Mexican-made Fenders.
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what exactly makes this guitar so interesting. Both of the ’60s and ’70s models are great, but hopefully today’s guide will help you to figure out which one of them will be better for you and your style of playing. Of course, there will be a few sound demos included too!
The ’60s Jazz Bass – Specs & Pricing
*If you’re from Europe, you can also check out current pricing on Thomann*
Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Jazz Bass is a fantastic guitar which features a poplar body and a gloss polyurethane finish. This particular model has a comfortable maple neck with the fingerboard made of Indian Laurel. The scale length of that guitar has 34 inches.
It is also worth mentioning that since it’s a Jazz Bass model, it’s really versatile when it comes to sound. That being said, this guitar can efficiently be used for a lot of different genres. Whether you’re into blues, jazz, rock or even metal – this will be an excellent choice.
What’s important, the Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is perfect for both beginners and more advanced players. This model is ideal for home practice, but at the same time, it’s also more than enough for rehearsals and live performances.
When it comes to pricing, this is one of the most expensive bass guitars offered by Squier, but it’s still cheaper than any of the Fenders. Undoubtedly, the guitar is worth the money and it’s definitely not overpriced.
That’s why I have no hesitation in recommending this model to anyone who’s looking for a high quality and reliable bass that doesn’t cost thousands of dollars!
Here’s the sound demo.
The ’70s Jazz Bass – Specs & Pricing
*If you’re from Europe, you can also check out current pricing on Thomann*
Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Jazz Bass is really similar to the previous model mentioned above, but it offers a different look and a different fingerboard. In this case, the manufacturer decided to use a maple fretboard, which looks and feels absolutely amazing.
Just like the ’60s model, the guitar features a poplar body with a gloss finish, a comfortable C-shaped neck and a 34″ scale length. As you can see on the picture above, the guitar also has black inlay blocks on the fretboard instead of the dots.
When it comes to sound, it’s pretty much the same as in the previous model. The guitar also features two Fender-Alnico single-coil pickups, which offer a lot of versatility when it comes to tone. As a result, this guitar works very well for a wide range of different genres and styles of music.
The ’70s Jazz Bass costs the same amount of money as the ’60s model, so as you can imagine, it’s totally worth it. Although it’s not a cheap guitar, it definitely deserves a lot of attention and it can compete with more expensive Fenders.
What’s interesting, Squier also made a ’70s version with a natural maple body, which is not as lightweight as the poplar model. If you’re into this kind of vibe, you should definitely check it out as well.
Here’s the sound demo.
Who Is This Jazz Bass For?
Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is perfect for all amateurs and more intermediate bass players as well. Whether you’re starting your musical journey or if you’re looking for a new bass to gig with, both of these models will be an excellent choice.
In general, the Jazz Basses are really versatile when it comes to tone. So if you’re searching for an instrument suitable for playing a lot of different styles of music, the model from Classic Vibe Series won’t disappoint you.
It is also worth mentioning that the pricing of this guitar is relatively low. Considering the fact that the quality of this guitar can easily compete with quality of more expensive Mexican-made Fenders, this guitar actually seems to be a great deal. That being said, it will be perfect for guitarists who don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a new piece of gear.
Disadvantages of Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass
Although the Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is great guitar, it’s not perfect and it has its own disadvantages as well. Personally, I don’t think that any of these minor flaws should discourage you from getting it, but you should definitely be aware of that.
The main issue with all guitars manufactured by Squier is that most of the time they require setting up after the purchase. This is a very common problem which occurs in almost all of the models by thins brand. There’s a really high chance that you’ll have to adjust the string action in order to make your bass more playable.
Some of the guitarists also report issues with the quality of the finish of that guitar. I had a lot of Squier guitars in my hands and I’m positive that these models are generally well-made, but once you take a very close look, you may find some minor factory flaws. These things don’t affect the tone of the guitar, but they certainly confirm that this is not a guitar from the highest shelf.
Still, considering the relatively low price, the amazing look and a very nice and versatile tone, these disadvantages shouldn’t discourage you from getting this guitar. So if you’re still thinking about getting your own Classic Vibe Jazz Bass, I’m sure that you won’t regret it!
Which Model Is Better?
Personally, I think that it is not that easy to choose which model looks, sounds or feels better – it all comes down to your own preferences. Both of these guitars are great and they sound very similar.
In my opinion, the ’70s version looks a bit better though. It’s only my subjective opinion, but I think that there’s something really cool about that maple fingerboard with black block inlays. In addition, I really like the feel of a maple fretboard. So if I had to choose one of these models, I’d choose the Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Jazz Bass.
When it comes to pricing, both of these guitars cost the same amount of money, so in the end it’s really all about the look. Choose the model that you like more and then take it from there!
Cheaper Alternatives
If you’re not satisfied with the sound or the look of these two models, don’t worry! There’s a lot of great and affordable bass guitars out there. Here’s a few guitars that you should definitely check out if you’re looking for something different.
Firstly, make sure to check out the Squier Bronco Bass. This model is much cheaper than these Classic Vibe models, so it’s suitable for players on a very tight budget. It may not be as cool when it comes to tone, but it’s still a great guitar. Especially for beginners!
Alternatively, you can also check out the Squier Affinity Jaguar Bass. This is an another great proof that a cool guitar doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars. In comparison with other guitars mentioned earlier, the Jaguar features a bit shorter scale, so it’s suitable for players with shorter fingers.
If you’re searching specifically for a guitar suitable for funk music, you should also check out my article about the 10 Best Basses For Slap & Funk.
Where is the Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass Made?
Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is manufactured in Indonesia.
Summary
As you can see, Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is a really interesting guitar. Personally, I find it really difficult to clearly say which CV Jazz Bass is better. Whether you choose the ’60s or the ’70s Jazz Bass, I’m sure that you won’t be disappointed. The reason is simple – these guitars are great! Although they’re not perfect, they’re definitely worth the money.
What do you think about the Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass? Would you add it to your own collection of bass guitars? Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
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