The Ultimate Fender Precision Bass Shootout! Squier CV60s vs MIM Fender Player vs USA Fender Pro

[@DannySapko]

Can't go wrong with Classic Vibes!

[@powbobs]

Danny Sapko They’re an excellent first bass if you can’t afford the Fender or a G&L.

[@ramencurry6672]

The Squire bass pick up is shockingly very good and basically as good as it gets. They probably figured out a way to make the pickups high quality without making the guitar expensive.

[@luigi.zanini]

squier cv60 8:28 - 10:28 MIM player 9:01 - 10:45 Pro 9:38 - 11:02

[@Tubulous123]

TY!!! (Y)

[@rodrigomunoz6415]

I have one Squier Precision Bass Vintage Modified and is awesome, What is the difference with a CV 60??

[@OttosTheName]

@@rodrigomunoz6415 from what I've heard the VM's are better as they moved production to the Cort factory in the last couple years. The CV's do have a very nice pickup and sound, I'm not sure how the VM sounds exactly, people were taking about quality in general

[@superstitiouspotato]

Unpopular opinion, but I like the Mexican player the best. I was about to buy a jazz bass untill I played the Mexican player. The guitar is completely in balance to me (no neckdive whatsoever), while all other (mostly jazz) fender basses I'd tried had a (slight) neck dive. The clarity the fingerboard brings is something interesting. Also the satin back is a comfort plus for me.

[@lafemmeparallel]

I have a mexican pbass too and it neck dives :( but i LOVE it

[@JD-rq5jf]

I had no budget, went into a guitar shop and took a few basses off the wall, and made my decision based off of tone. Of course I wanted a Fender so all I knew were that they are Fender's. I ended up with the Player P series. The comfort, style, tone, feel, was just in balance for me. I was stoked too cause it ended up saving me a rather large amount of cash too. I also test guitars without looking at price or where they are made. Helps me keep an even and fair mindset when playing various guitars.

[@AnderDoUrden]

This Squier is awesome. And if you consider the price it literally puts the other two to shame

[@BananaJoseph]

Yes, it´s awesome. The Squier definitely is a good bass and for the price it´s just fantastic value. But I think that the other two really feel better, especially the Pro with its 63 neck profile. That´s something that a video just can´t show. One could also argue that the resale value of a Pro will probably stay quite high for decades while the other two will lose more value over time. Just the law of the used instrument market. Still...you can´t go wrong with any of these in my opinion.

[@powbobs]

AnderDoUrden The Squier is fine. But, no, it is definitely not equal to the Fender.

[@paulevans4334]

I agree. If the test was done blindly most would get wrong on which was which. The Squier sounded just as good as the other two.

[@powbobs]

Paul Evans No, it doesn’t. But it sounds OK and beginners will be happy. But really buying more expensive guitars is more about the feel and playability.

[@head2nostromo]

@@oinkooink holy moly . I'm doing the opposite.

[@MrWeda2]

Thanks! Hello! This is the best benchmarking I have ever seen ... Great! Sincerely, Alexander.

[@TylerSpicer]

alexander wedeshkin thanks! Always happy to help! Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! T

[@johnh6762]

It’s easy for people, especially less experienced players, to watch a video like this and claim the squire sounds better. It is the same player playing the same lines on the same style of bass. The difference in price between these 3 models represents the feel, not the sound. Think that’s important for a new player when ABing a cheap bass to a 1k+ bass. Get out there and try them yourself before deciding which to buy.

[@TylerSpicer]

This. x100. Feel and nuance of tone is what you’ll find in the more expensive bass. I’d take the US Pro out of these every time for those reasons alone. T

[@marchangel7462]

And people tend to listen with their wallet and not their ears, no way the classic vibe compares to the player series and us model. The squier sounds cheap and by looking at the video it doesn't respond well.

[@neardaaaRk]

also, i am listening this on a very decent headphones and you can clearly ..not even hear but FEEL. the difference between the SQ and the MIM. don't get me wrong, that SQ must be a very nice bass, I owned a SQ for 6 years before I got a '91 japanese Ibanez, they are not on the same page for sure..but it's true that SQ can be very decent. but a Fender is a Fender and it's not only more espensive because of the logo, but also the materials, the quality requirements, etc. I am in this dilemma for months now, but I think I will definitely go with the MIM, the USA is too pricey for me :)

[@pjmuck]

@@TylerSpicer Price does not always equate to better "feel and nuance". I had an Am Pro P bass and hated how it felt. Didn't care for the overhyped '63 neck profile or the tall narrow frets, which were NOT rolled enough as he claims. (THE best P neck profile I've ever played is the B neck from the 70's, which I have on my '73 P). The V-Mod PUP is OK, but I felt it sounded scooped and lacking the low mid bump you expect from a P. Overall, I would expect a lot more out of a $1500.00 bass. Sold it without remorse.

[@TylerSpicer]

pjmuck I totally get that my man, but I can only comment on the basses that come through my hands and how I feel about them. The 63 is a big profile - a lot of people will hate that but I really dig it on a P. Same for the pickups, I think they’re interesting and have a slightly different sonic profile which I found a little more versatile and able to do ‘modern’ as well as more ‘vintage’ sounds. I thought the fretboard was well rolled on this model whilst another one might not have been finished to the same level: these are hand finished instruments made of inconsistent material (wood). Ultimately I think the chances of you finding a great instrument increases with the price you pay due to the quality of parts that are being put into making that bass. However, the fact that these aren’t consistent materials and everyone doesn’t like the same feel and sound means that can’t be guaranteed no matter the price. My channel is only here for me to try and help people out when they’re considering a piece of gear, based on sound primarily. I try to offer my advice on build quality and feel, but these aren’t MacBooks or made of plastic in a factory, so I can only offer my opinions on the very one in my hands, and hope that the consistency is as high as possible between the model coming out of the respective builder’s factory. When you look at a builder like MTD, they specifically choose wood for their signature models to get it as close to the original artist build as possible, from the density of the wood, to the grain. That’s another level to try and build a consistent instrument that Fender just can’t do at that price point. And they still won’t be perfectly consistent - it’s just not possible. I’ve written far too much, but I hope you can see it from my perspective, as much as I do from yours!

[@Vortigan07]

I've always been a Jazz player. Started out that way because the first bass I ever bought from a friend of a friend just happened to be a J style with a maple fingerboard so that's just what I stuck with. I now own a G&L Tribute Jazz. Just recently a friend of mine bought a CV P bass with the Laurel fingerboard, I've been over there a few times and she's let me try it out and honestly, I feel like it's spoiling me for my G&L! I just love the feel of it, I love the simple and effective tonal control on it and that Laurel fingerboard just seems to feel so much warmer and faster even!! I'm sure the neck shape must be playing a part too, of course. Now I'm sitting here thinking I *have* to get one!! I don't gig anymore except once in a blue moon, it's just me at home noodling and playing along to CD's for my own pleasure so I'm almost certain that The CV is more than enough P bass for my requirements. Only trouble is, I'm getting attacks of headstock snobbery (I'm ashamed to say) and I'm thinking "Nah, don't go for another "affordable" version, go for the Player series". But does what I do really justify spending double the money just to satisfy that, as I said, headstock snobbery?? I don't think it would be justified by the tonal differences and very few people are ever gonna even see it apart from me, and if they do, would they really care?! I can't believe that something so trivial is giving me such a dilemma! Like I said, feel pretty ashamed of it really

[@TylerSpicer]

I've been there too! I think I generally justify it with resale value, and the fact the sometimes you just want "the genuine article". These products are made to be aspirational and if that's what you aspire to, I'd get the Fender! They are more solid, feel longer lasting, and I think the Player Series Ps give the old USA standards a run for their money. Pickups are stronger and have a wider range of tones than the Squier too... T

[@noelbonnici191]

Exactly. I’m in the same boat. I really like the Player series but I feel the American will hold value (I have a 2009 American Jazz which is now probably worth 2x to 3x it’s original price). I also agree that the American has a way beefier feel overall, which in turn affects my playing style.

[@jasondorsey7110]

​@@noelbonnici191The mim is a pretty solid compromise, it's giggable right away with maybe a few setup tweaks, and if you want to upgrade later the choices are plentiful...but if you got the cash and/or resale is a concern, just get an american fender

[@markchatman9583]

I have all three levels of bass In both precision and jazz. Unless you are a session player or some kind of gear snob, the squire and the player series are both excellent choices. Maybe a bit of setup and refinement and you’ve got a great bass. Yes the professional series is a better instrument. If you got the money get what you want. The squire could do with a electronic upgrade.

[@TylerSpicer]

Agreed on the electronics in the squier - I’d also change the tuners! T

[@markokoprivc7317]

The player series with pao ferro neck produce strange glassy sound,i dont like it,have problems with freets,action,setup....i dont now for maple neck,but old mim standard with rosewood is way better,and the CV is better then player....the best p.is Us standard....

[@willistaylor4077]

I'd probably go for the Mexican Player just for compromise of tone vs cost. The Player would be more in my potential budget.

[@bassplyr13]

Buy the Squier and throw some American Original P-bass pickups in there and add a hi-mass bridge, and you have one hell of a workhorse.

[@marchangel7462]

Trust me I've tried the upgrades, but i found that it still feels like a squier. I tried to justify the upgrade but at the end of the day it's still a squier. The indian laurel fretboard on the squier makes it feel cheap. The quality of the feel and sound of a fender is definitely undeniable. The classic vibe is a hybrid between vintage modified and classic vibe. The new classic vibes of today are not like the old made in china squier classic vibes which were superior.

[@rolux4853]

march angel I own a Classic Vibe P Bass which I upgraded with a 62 custom shop pickup, that’s my go to bass. I too owned the Fender American standard P Bass a few months ago. The reason I sold it, is that the Squier with the custom shop pickup sounded better (highly subjective of course - MY ears liked it better, the bass in combination with the vintage pickup just has such a nice warmth to it, while containing the bite and rumble). After rolling the fretboard edges and setting up the Squier perfectly with Thomastik Jazz Flats there was just no way to justify owning the American made Bass. Only thing I’ll change in the next months will be the strings. The Thomastik Jazz sound great but I tend to dig deep when playing and they have pretty low tensions which distracts me a bit. I’ll put La Bella Flatwounds on it since they are known for high tension. No way to justify a Fender for myself, even if I desperately want to own an vintage P-Bass from the 60s. Just because it’s the real thing with so much history.

[@recordlabeldao7820]

bassplyr13 i know Imao

[@recordlabeldao7820]

bassplyr13 we both are really fucked up

[@henry9606]

@@marchangel7462 so why not just replace the neck, then the pickups?

[@sebasprieto9673]

I've been waiting several months for someone to upload a Classic Vibe 60s P bass demo. Finally! I wish it had been the sunburst one though. For me the CV60's and the US made sounded almost identical but the MIM one had a considerably brighter sound, I'm almost sure it's because of the maple neck.

[@kaitodesire]

Thx Tyler. I bought a Squier Bass because of your video

[@pjmuck]

Great comparison and exactly what I've been looking for. I wish the MIM Player was a rosewood neck model like the other two for a truer comparison, but this is very helpful. I liked the Squire the best, actually. Seemed to play/sound smoother, IMO. Less of that scratchy, clickety clack fret noise that P basses can be prone to if they're not set up or played well. I used to own an Am Pro, and despite all the hype about the '63 neck I hated it. (Tall narrow frets are NOT '63, and I found the fret edges to be sharp) I like low, vintage frets and a B neck: 7.25" profile the best (my '73 P). In a mix, nobody's going to complain about the $1100 price difference between the Squire and the Pro either.

[@doneriksen5599]

I have the Squier CV 50's P Bass with the single coil pickup in the brown burst finish. It looks great and plays great. I also have a Squier CV 50's Telecaster and a Squier CV Esquire. Both well made and sound great.Squier is making some fine instruments these days. I love them!

[@RoadKing-ky2bs]

I own two Squire basses and can attest for the money they sound pretty good. However, when compared to the MIM and American made ones the Squier sounded more treble then bass. Between the MIM and US I think they are pretty close, but if I had to only choose one it would be the US made P bass as it sounded the best to my ear. I think this is very subjective because what sounds good to my ear may not sound as good to another listener. Great video.

[@TylerSpicer]

Interesting! In the room, the Squier felt less defined, but I think the direct sound in the video is more telling for sure. Thank you for the support! T

[@lessingesnus]

Nothing subjective here : the AM pro doesn't have to struggle in a mix

[@RoadKing-ky2bs]

@@lessingesnus I own an Elite series Fender Jazz V that is AM and it comes through the mix super clean and strong, so I agree on that end. However, if you change out the pick ups on Squiers and MIM Fenders to P90s or any high end brand picks ups (be it active or passive) then those instruments won't be struggling either in the mix. I find most everything rests on the pick ups to drive that signal. Of course wood types, string types, and model amps affect the signal as well. However, it still can be subjective in the end because as I said what may sound good to one person may not sound as good to another person, tonality can affect people's tastes differently.

[@paxonearth]

I've been through a LOT of P basses over the years, and I'm here to tell you that there's not a dime's worth of difference in the SOUND of a Squier Affinity P and an American Custom Shop P. The differences are mostly in the fit, finish, balance, and set up. Cheap basses are more likely to need the fret ends polished, the electronics shielded, intonation adjusted, etc.. But that's about it. I just bought a Samick P bass copy at a pawn shop for $120. Just a hair neck-heavy, but once I got it properly set up and swapped out the pots and wiring ($20), it sounds and feels fantastic.

[@bobt5778]

Squiers should be really be compared with other basses in their price range. They weren't meant to compete with Fender, just to get you into the Fender product family so you'll move up the line as you progress. I've modded both the Squiers and MIM's and when you take them apart and examine the components, the MIM has better quality parts throughout and better again with the American line. If I were on the road and my basses were getting banged around gig after gig, I'd at least spring for the MIM. Hey I started playing in the early 70's and todays budget instruments are incredible - they really are, but you mostly still get what you pay for. Another great video Tyler!

[@richardfittonperkins1926]

Hi Tyler, I have the exact model/colour Am.Professional Precision and have gigged it heavily professionally for the last couple of years. What makes it special is the V-Mod pickup with the Alnico 5 vs Alnico 2 magnets, giving you deep wuffly low end and clear top end. It sounds fantastic live and never gets buried in the mix. Highly recommended, especially strung with the Elixir 40-95 set.

[@TylerSpicer]

Hi Richard! The more time I spent it with the pro after filming, the more I realised just how much of a difference the V mod was making. That treble size has some real clarity and sizzle, and I was really enjoying it! Thank you for watching! T

[@alfieharries]

Squier wins hands down for me. Recently A-B'd a squier cv against a custom shop p. There was no competition, the classic vibe was just a better sounding and feeling bass, and was able to get a better setup out of it. Hard to find the original rosewood version now though

[@AnderDoUrden]

I have an american P Bass, a MIM one and this recent CV 60 (and other "non Fender" basses). After 2 hours of general fine tuning and some fretboard edges smoothing it's my favorite bass now. Ever. Of my life. Needless to say I'm selling the American one and I'm buying another Squier Precision CV 60 to customize and a couple of Jazz Classic Vibe. There's really no need anymore to buy American Fenders other than throwing away money to treat ourselves (nothing wrong with that, of course). If people start to realize that this is the way... they are going to be discontinued soon. I'm not selling the MIM one cause I'm using it right now as a backup for the Squier (yes, the Squier is that good) cause I put Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounder in both of them and they almost sound the same (the Squier feels better though)

[@johnr374]

You may prefer the squier for whatever reason but it’s not “vastly superior” lol

[@1thess523]

@@AnderDoUrden i have the 60's classic vibe jazz and I'm thinking of putting some Quarter Pounders in it. I bought some pick ups from a Highway One jazz but they didn't work well with my Tech 21 RBI because they are really trebly and my RBI is also in that range. I put the stock pick ups back in and it sounds better but I'm going to be looking for a new preamp.

[@peterjanjanin9883]

I love my Squier P Bass! Can't wait to put some better pickups in it

[@alfieharries]

Dont throw the old ones away, they are great pups.

[@liberioescriba6158]

I own both squiers & fenders & love them very much... but there is a world of difference from squier to fender, even if mim. If you think squier sounds better is because you havent listened to them in person.

[@lucaslavarenne4506]

that's a useful and great vid mate, thanks !

[@TylerSpicer]

Thank you! Really appreciate the kind words! Thank you for watching. T

[@LucaLindemann]

I had both Am and Mim jazz and precision basses. Now I've got just Squiers and one mid 90s Japan Fender jazz bass, with some mods on Squiers (mainly electronic: pots, condensers, soldering and in some cases pick-ups). And i got to the conclusion that, given a decent/good instrument, the sound is mostly in your fingers. Period.

[@fredrikstadwhite]

I’d love to see an equivalent review of mustangs. PJ v vintera v jmj v American performer perhaps.

[@TylerSpicer]

Definitely on the cards. Currently store only has 2 mustangs in stock, but that’s my intention! T

[@CarstenMolewijk]

Th Squier sound for me the best! And I can tell you it is a Wonderfull bass!

[@phillyhank8726]

Well, to my ears And through my car stereo, the best sounding were the Squier And player series. They were pretty equal in all styles with tone off. With tone on, I like the player series a bit better but not by much. The pro series was the worst with tone fully on. It had a slightly whirly very piano sound and that drives me nuts. With Tone off, it was equal to the others. Best looking for me was the player series. But to conclude my comment, I am a Squier guy all the way. I’m not a session player so I don’t need anything fancy shmancy. To me and just my opinion only. When it comes to gigging whether it’s a squier or Fender, with “house monitors “ they can make lower cost basses sound Awesome andi really don’t think the crowd gives a damn…. it all sounds the same to me. This video was excellent. Thank you.

[@g.medina3717]

Awesome review thanks 👍🏼

[@lucassilveira4869]

nice video bro, keep producing!!

[@mikez1975]

Great video - Can you do a video of the American Ultra P Bass? I am interested in your impression of the active controls as well as the passive sound compared to the vintage style P Basses...as well as the new modern D neck compared to the older style you prefer. Thank you

[@Muppio]

Honestly, you can never go wrong with either one of these. Fender makes straight-up quality stuff.

[@binheiss]

The Squiere is my Favorite!

[@streamerlx4927]

Well, i bought exactly the same MIM like you see it in the video. I changed the pickups to EMG GZR, the pickguard to black, the tuners to Schaller and the bridge to Fender Hi-Mass. Overall i paid roughly 1,090€ for an awesome bass. MIM Fenders are a very good mod- base!

[@draxlerchronicles5851]

Great vid. I was considering the Squier and I think I shall go for it now. For my own needs it shall be perfect and I might record an unboxing video when it arrives. Tyler, have you considered doing a setup demo video? To keep people right who might need to tweak things a little out of the box.

[@delclaro]

Do you ship to Brazil?

[@kianvaziri6939]

big smile:"this is my first video of 2020" oh buddy

[@TylerSpicer]

HAHAHA! So true! 🤣 I am super grateful for the growth of my channel this year though 🙏🏻 T

[@conradborba4324]

10:28 vs 11:02 11:18 vs 11:52

[@p_sem]

I have the same aqua blue MIM player series P-bass and this is awesome! Love it! Later i tried to play MIA PJ am perf series bass on the same amp (Fender Rumble) and for me my Mexican bass sounds better!

[@Tombstonecross]

The question is how good is the hardware on the Sqier over time? Will the trussrod do its job 5 or 10 years? If you have to replace the neck, the financial advantage to a Fender will diminish.

[@arthurverlaine6434]

Congrats on the video Just a thought: When you make comparisons, put every model next to each other with the same tone set up, and then repeat with a different tone set up Anyway good content! Keep it up! ps: you could really use some background music when you talk

[@paulevans4334]

The only real difference was the player series due to the fact that it has a maple fretboard making it sound more gritty. I think playing them back to back without changing the tone would help.

[@JPuckett89]

I don't think it's any surprise given the choice between the 3, the American Pro wins. The squiers are great, especially for what you give for them, but they don't compare to the quality of wood, craftsman ship, hardware, over all build quality and feel of an American made instrument. I also, was pretty surprised by how modern and aggressive the Player series bass was, beautiful color too.

[@dirkjanklijn9949]

The Squier gives them both a run for their money, I noticed this allready when I tested my own Squier P against a MIM and a USA P bass, the MIM I put away imediatly and with the USA of € 1800,- there was little to no difference, I tested them because I wanted to invest in a "real" Fender in the assumption it was a better instrument but I left with the Squier and never looked back.

[@marchangel7462]

Fender is the real instrument. Classic vibe will only lead you to want the fender.

[@dirkjanklijn9949]

march angel sorry, I disagree, I'm not paying € 1800 for what an instrument of € 400 can do, so I left the "real" Fender idea and lived happilly ever after, it's a personal thing and I made my choice.

[@recordlabeldao7820]

The Fender Player p bass sound best in my ear i love the color and the fretboard and the sound. I just buyet it too :)

[@pattonPwr]

i'd def get the squier

[@robstevenson6842]

I think the made in Mexico stuff is great value. I prefer the tone of the Mexican PS. It's splitting hairs though. They all sound good

[@TylerSpicer]

Definitely all good, especially within their price ranges! T

[@gregorystevens5173]

Fender's 2024 website indicates the Pro is using "modified versions of our classic vintage pickup designs" (V-Mod II). Is that what you've got in your USA Pro? I was going to pull the trigger on one but I'll back off and look for a different year if your Pro isn't using the V-Mod as I am trying to replicate the tone on yours.

[@paultraynorbsc627]

Best wishes Tyler for 2020

[@TylerSpicer]

Thank you Paul, best wishes to you too for the year ahead! T

[@sowhatwearedoomed]

Nice comparison . I would play any of them but each price increase came a little better tone . I’m sure playability was different as well.

[@TylerSpicer]

Right on! Totally agreed. T

[@bnutz3k]

I recently got a CV Strat and an American Performer Mustang Bass. The quality difference between a CV and Player is almost imperceptible. The difference in the AmPerf over a player is miles better. I also have that Adam Clayton Custom Shop Jazz and the Mustang is of the same quality, top to bottom. If you can afford it, you won't regret, but $100-200 of mods to a CV or Player will put it pretty close, imho. Everyone has different tastes and requirements. Just sharing my recent experience. Thanks for the vids. About time I subbed. :)

[@Manakel77]

on headphones, the American Professional has the wider bottom end among the three Ps, something you can cut off if needed but you can't add if lacking. For function band? squier CV 100%. For recording session and "safe" gigs? AM Pro 100%. Thanks for the video, Tyler.

[@robertkerr9738]

Great video. Thanks! Seems to me the best options are to either spend a little (Squier) or spend a lot (American Pro).

[@metalmike570]

I have a Fender Squire and I think it's great, the only thing is the action is a bit high - I think it should be set up. I did what I could but I'd rather take it in sometime. My Squire has both a bridge and neck pickups and good volume and tone controls.

[@larsetom1]

When comparing the various models, did you change the compression?

[@aussiesurfer805]

great video - only very slight difference to my rookie bass ears … American sounded fuller to my ears if anything … no doubt a lot of the difference would be play-ability, construction, materials and durability …

[@TylerSpicer]

Thank you for watching! It’s definitely mostly in the feel! T

[@gus3333]

Great review! Can you do some comparisons against Harley Benton's basses? Cheers from Spain

[@TylerSpicer]

Thank you! It’s unlikely I’ll ever get the chance to, just because Harley Benton is a Thomann brand, and a lot of the basses I review come through the Guitar Centre in the U.K. However if I do happen to come across one at any point I’ll definitely consider a review. T

[@jimjamsjam6123]

Super awesome Shootout :)

[@whamni]

Hey Tyler, a great review and I must say given the big price gap, there were times when it was hard to separate them lol. Put flat wounds on a P and then it all happens. cheers and Happy New Year.

[@TylerSpicer]

Definitely difficult to separate them on sound at times. When I chose my custom shop P it was the little nuances in tone over the Original 60s. In a mix you probably wouldn’t notice tbh! Happy new year to you too! T

[@chazz-j1994]

I don't know if it's just me or because I own one but the Squier CV sounds miles above the other two .....

[@AnderDoUrden]

It's not you. The Squier is amazing, it does sound better, most of all it sounds better than the US one. And even if subjectively one could prefer the MIM in this specific case (the maple fretboard sounds much brighter, at least in this particular demo with this exact instrument) there's really no other reason to choose the MIM, considering the price. IF you do consider the price tag there's literally no match for the MIM or the US ones

[@musenw8834]

👋 hey, maybe it'd be good to have that particular USA pro P bass that was lying on the amp resting string side down?

[@willistaylor4077]

I now have a Player Series Jazz Bass, and the Player Series PJ Mustang Bass. But, I still want the "proper" Precision Bass. I'm at a stage where I'm noticing all the tonal differences between Jazz and Precision Bass, etc.

[@davebassP5]

Ive had a Squier CVP since it came out (along with the CV Jazz). Probably 2007-ish. Both have been modified a lot, but the i keep them because the necks are fantastic. The jazz is the best neck i have every owned, and have had it on a few other basses, in a USA Fender P. And the CVP. Two basses ill never sell.

[@Ithumpify]

I had a player bass and American performer bass recently and I didn't like either one of them. It kinda comes down to fit and finish. How the neck feels in your hand. Sound wise I think the CV is just as good.

[@TylerSpicer]

All about feel - gotta find the right one for you! T

[@Ithumpify]

@@TylerSpicer I found a Fender pro near me for sale. With these upgrades. Lollar pickups, Emerson Custom electronics, and full copper shielding. $1250. What do you think? Im tempted to jump on it.

[@shaharkarp4357]

Great video!! How about fretless basses comparison?

[@rafaelosuna4784]

Hi Tyler, is the neck on the MIM smaller than the squire CV?

[@trailblazeratv6306]

I have the classic vibe 2008 Squier jazz bass. It is really good for the money hard to beat

[@CheckDaClaws]

How much does your Player Precision bass weigh?

[@JayWalsh]

So, I know I'm late to the party, but a couple of notes on just the sound differences. The Squier sounds good and workmanlike. A decent gigging bass. The MIM bass sounds stronger and brighter. I attribute that to both better pickups and the maple neck. I think the fairest comparison is between the Squier and the American Pro. You can hear the volume jump due to the better pickups, but both basses retain the warm sound from the rosewood necks. IMHO, I think for regular gigging and band practices, the Squier is the value leader. However, if you take your recording seriously, I'd look to the American Pro.

[@jamescartwright4750]

As a CV Jazz owner I came for the CV Precision review. If money was no object I’d go American. Tone had more depth and yes a wider range. But I can’t afford it so take that out of the equation and I would pick the CV over the Mexican. It’s almost half the price of the Mexican, sounded better had a better neck profile (I like fatter necks too) and leaves a lot of room in the budget to upgrade it with new pickups and hi-mass bridge.

[@simseven4967]

Prefer Squier over Fender, they sound darker and this is what I like✌🏻👍🏻

[@MrSpagget]

How to make precision not to pop out on highs when doing octaves? How to fix it?

[@TylerSpicer]

Антон Фтешт tone control! Or if it’s too much it could be your pickup heights too. Bring the treble side of the pickup down so it’s lower! T

[@linovinn7011]

I like the Mexican P-Bass with the maple fingerboard. It sounds great on slapping.

[@miguelsantos84]

Hey Tyler, back in 1998/99 I had some guitar lessons but I had to give up because I was having problems at School and because Theory was very hard for me, now I'm 36 years old and I want to learn bass, I always loved the Precision Fenders, Gaming is getting on my nerves so I need a new hobby that helps me to relax, problem is: none of my friends know how to play bass so I have to learn by myself, my learning disability won't stop me.

[@TylerSpicer]

Miguel Santos dont worry about the theory my man. Find songs you like and play along with them. You can delve into the theory later on but most important thing is to get playing!

[@miguelsantos84]

@@TylerSpicer Thank you for your reply, I want to play some covers to help boost my self-esteem, I can't wait to buy a P Bass and have fun, take care Tyler.

[@mindhead2005]

I thought the MIM had the fullest tone Nice video

[@TylerSpicer]

They’re very good! Thank you for the kind word and watching! T

[@rodsam3007]

Could anyone recommend me the right replacement for the classic vibe stock machine heads? Many thanks. Ps: my bass is a Squier Mustang CV.

[@nym053]

I prefer the Player. Not sure if I think that it's worth double the price of the CV.

[@rabonour]

I don't get why some folks are so invested in hating on Squier. The Pro sounds better (though in a mix I don't think I would notice a difference) and I have no doubt it feels better, but the CV is a great value. When I was starting out Squiers were pretty junky and that's what you were stuck with if you didn't have the cash for a Fender. Today good instruments are much more accessible and I think that is awesome.

[@stephencostello1296]

Thanks for doing the review Tyler and I am really interested in the squire as I already have a 2015 deluxe p . So taking out the pro I'd get a Squire with some other pups. Cheers mate and Happy New Year to you. 🎆👍

[@TylerSpicer]

Hi Stephen! Happy to hear it was helpful to you! I think a pickup change on the Squier would make a lot of people happy. I think you’re right in intimating that there’s a big step up to the Pro in comparison. Happy new year to you too! T

[@johnplainsong9769]

Did you record these DI from the amp head, or ??

[@TylerSpicer]

They are recorded from the DI, yes! T

[@kevinhughes9200]

They all sound good. It just all depends on how much you want to spend.

[@TylerSpicer]

Definitely! None of them sounds bad! It’s a good situation we all find ourselves in nowadays! T

[@drawbridge611]

Great review, thanks. For potential American PB buyers, the tone will change significantly if you string through the bridge rather than through the body. The former way gives a more-traditional, percussive sound, while the latter way (as shipped from Fender) gives a smoother, less-percussive sound. I run mine through the bridge since I cut my teeth on ‘70s PBs, so that’s my benchmark. I would not play an American PB if the only stringing option were through-body. I don't like that sound at all. Something else to note: The American has 3-groove saddles, which is a great feature for fine-tuning string alignment. With single-groove saddles, you’re stuck with what you get alignment-wise, unless you upgrade. If you buy any bass with single-groove saddles online, make sure to view straight-ahead pics of the actual instrument you’re buying so you don’t get stuck with an instrument that has a misalignment issue. By the same token, check the pics of instruments with 3-groove saddles and make sure, if the strings look misaligned over the pickups and/or the fretboard at the neck heel, that you have slots available to address the issue, i.e. free slots in the necessary direction to get things lined up correctly..

[@Timmy2by4]

Lmao significantly quiet the over statement. Barely noticeable at best.

[@LesPaul2006]

Swap the pickups on that Squier and you won't notice any difference in sound. Obviously, perhaps a Fender would withstand the rigors of the road better, so modding a Squier is more like a studio option.

[@jasonniehoff9372]

Great review, thanks! I am torn between a used 2014 Pro series vs a new Performers series with the PJ pickup configuration. I love how the pro series sounds and like the thicker neck, but like the idea of having a PJ bass. This may sound stupid but I like the 70ish Precision bass logo on the headstock of the Performer too. I can't find too many reviews on the Performer, but when I have heard it the yosemite pups sounds a bit bright and compressed maybe? Can this brightness be tamed with eq, I was also planning on using flatwounds. Can the Performer be made to sound like a Pro series? What are your thoughts?

[@musenw8834]

If you're using flat wounds I think you'd not have too much issue with the bright tones. Flat wounds after all will give you a warm upright bass tone instead of the classic bright tone of round wounds if that's what you're going for. You'd just have to turn down the treble/high ends a bit and your tone knob below ~20% for that warm tone. If anything I'd rather you aim for the hybrid (PJ). Whether professional or player series, single (precision) pup basses are built for tonal precision in the studio mix. PJs, found mainly in the performer, squire affinity and a couple of signatures, offer you the extra ability to have scooped mids and a bridge tone if you ever want to play jazz, much like a jazz bass itself. I have a PJ bass and that's how I know.

[@musenw8834]

I'd say, go for your desired PJ bass with round wounds. Round wound strings after all have more tonal versatility than flat wounds (used mainly for very vintage sounds) if you totally roll off your tone knob, and should you need to play songs with bright bass tones you can just max out your tone knob and increase amp treble if need be.

[@billcw1834]

how about Sire P7? vs fender

[@TylerSpicer]

I've actually never played a Sire! I need to, for sure! There are a couple of brands that get requested regularly and Sire is definitely one of them! T

[@ibayBass0935]

which one is best for playability?

[@TylerSpicer]

Probably the player - it has the most average neck profile and nut width! T

[@ibayBass0935]

@@TylerSpicer wow thanks for reply, i tired to play some affinity\low cost bass under 400 usd , neck is not stable afterall

[@fanwtn5124]

Your mindset play a really really big role in this comparison, I tell you that

[@tanukibrahma]

Player Series sounds best to me.

[@tanukibrahma]

oink ooink I did buy it, and it was as good as another bass with a Seymour Duncan Antiquity II pickup one it, maybe a little better for recording. I ultimately returned it and got a Fender Custom Shop, which I’ve always wanted. For playing through an amp, I think the Player is just as good. I do think the CS records better than a lot of basses, but even that can be someone compensated for in production. I’ve basically always wanted a CS, but the Player was surprisingly solid.

[@shiningcut7]

If we choose cv or mexican.. I think it must have some adjustment. The american one has true definition of pbass sound

[@jamesmanning7640]

Where does a MIJ fall into this list?

[@JacqueRamon]

That Squier sounded the best to me.

[@bjornedvardsson5510]

Good job

[@TylerSpicer]

Thank you! T

[@HenriDeCarvalho]

Very informative. Thanks for you comparaison review !

[@TylerSpicer]

Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! T

[@viacheslavdenisov7237]

Squier sounds more bright and for me wins especially when taking into consideration the price. But the comparison is not apple-to-apple. Basses should have at least the same strings and may be the same fretboard material. But nevertheless: nice comparison and shows that squier sound very good.

[@paulevans4334]

The squire sounded awful when played with a plectrum. The fender ultra basses is where it's at, they've done something really special this time with that series so much so that I'm considering selling a few of my basses to get one.

[@johnniecameron8829]

Dont overthink it ,,play what u like ...forget the name,price,style ,other peoples opinion

[@Wtfdawg321]

You can definitely hear the difference but when talking price those are minimal, I’d be good with squier all the way

[@Greywolfzx]

To my ears at least, the difference in sound between all 3 is really not much, with the Player and US models being the closest in sound quality. I own a Buttercream Player Series Jazz and love it overall. Gonna have to get me a matching P.

[@StraiyEU]

i got the player p bass as my first bass... someday when i play better and do gigs, i'll step up to the pro one...

[@willistaylor4077]

Tyler, If I wanted to get the Player Series Precision Bass, what would be a good replacement pickup for it, if I wanted to put Flatwound strings on the Bass ?

[@BananaJoseph]

I´m not Tyler but I think that the standard pu´s will do just fine. Smart decision to put flats on that thing!

[@southernpaths2986]

I gotta say... listening without constantly watching to see which was which (peeking in from time to time... I’m listening while working, lol!!) the Squier sounded way better than the MIM and not different enough from the high end American made P to justify the enormous price difference. For sure, if I wouldn’t miss the $$$, or was getting paid to play I’d buy the American, just because... but for a hacker like me? The CV 60’s Squier is plenty sufficient for my current level of playing.

[@TwoMinutesBass]

surpringly im more drawn to squier, the vintage sound is suit me better. It will sound awesome with flats