Fender Japan '75 Jazz Bass, crafted in Japan 2004-05, butterscotch blonde finish. These '75 style models always attract attention; the bound board and block inlays is very appealing to a lot of players. Much more often than not, this model sports a maple board and shows up in one of the two catalog finish options: natural or sunburst. This example, sporting a delightfully dark streaky rosewood board and a special-order butterscotch finish, is really quite unusual indeed. The grain of the ash body is visible underneath the blonde finish; you can see the deep lines of grain running throughout the body and you can certainly hear the punch and growl that ash is famous for. Combined with the rosewood board and the clear, high-fidelity USA pickups, this is truly a brilliant sounding bass; easily one of the best Jazz Bass tones we've ever heard. There's a huge amount of depth and warmth, matched equally by a brilliantly expressive and immediate attack and crystal-clear treble... very good indeed. This model was the most expensive JB in the 2004 catalog, so it carries an air of luxury that'll easily outperform most USA-made instruments. Looks gorgeous, feels brilliant, sounds amazing; plus it's a little difference to the regular Fender J... what more could you want?

Model: Fender Jazz Bass, '75 Reissue (JB75-90US)
Made: Japan, 2004-05, Tokai plant (serial R098995)
Finish: natural gloss, 3-ply white guard
Body: ash
Neck: maple with rosewood board, block inlays, 38mm nut and slim profile
Weight: 4.7kg approx
Mods: none
Pickup: Fender USA J-Bass Vintage single coils
Case: basic gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. There's a couple of nicks on the headstock, one on the end and one on the bottom edge. The back of the neck has a couple of little marks, nothing that interferes with play. The back has some light buckle rash and a couple of minor dents, nothing nasty. The front has some light play-scratches and a pair of little dents on the shoulder carve, as well as a little mark on the bottom edge near the knobs. Overall: very good condition (8.5/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have some minor play wear, but they're in great shape; 8/10 for life left. Set up with fresh 45/105s.