2009 TDPRI Giveaway Winners List is available HERE

xjazzy · August 31st, 2008, 06:41 AM

Hello.
I'm a guitar player but I need a bass around the house for some recording. Nothing much. Just some ideas.
I'm wondering what do you guys, bass players, think about the Squier Jazz Bass VM and the new Classic Vibe JB. I don't want to spend too much money, so the VM (the fretted one) is less expensive and I like the look.
I don't have the opportunity to play them before buy, unfortunately.

Tim Armstrong · August 31st, 2008, 08:48 AM

I'd prefer the Classic Vibe, because it has a more, well, classic vibe!

But if I wanted to get a decent bass for short dollars, I'd get an SX from Rondo Music like THIS ONE:

Don't let the covers weird you out, they can be removed!

I'm presently gigging with a short-scale SX P-bass copy that, after a pickup upgrade, is stupid good!

Cheers, Tim

zook · August 31st, 2008, 09:16 AM

I'm a Precision Bass guy, I prefer it to the Jazz, just a personal choice. I'm also attracted to these two:

Winnie

BigDaveyTwinkle · August 31st, 2008, 10:01 AM

I would second the Rondo SX vote. Got mine for $149. New Dimarzio Ultra Jazz pickups for $100, complete wiring kit for $18. With all new electronics and better pickups, I am still under the cost of a Squier for a better bass in my opinion. My experience ordering from Rondo was first class. Otherwise, if the CV bass is to the VM as the CV guitar is to the MIM, the Vibe is the way to go ...

xjazzy · August 31st, 2008, 10:03 AM

Hey Tim, I've thought about SX but I don't want to buy it from overseas. And Here SX and Squier are almost the same price.

Tim Armstrong · August 31st, 2008, 03:26 PM

I didn't notice that you're in Portugal!

I think the SX build quality is as good or better than any of the Squiers that I've tried, but the Squier has better stock electronics. I'd think that probably makes the Squier a better deal!

Cheers, Tim

xjazzy · August 31st, 2008, 07:28 PM

By my calculation, the price of Rondo including ship and taxes would be lower than the Squier. I've also found a Spanish store who as a price close to the Rondo with all the ship + taxes.
Now, what SX to get? That one that Tim showed is nice. What do I have to look for? I like the stile of JB but I now anything about them...

Gareth John · September 7th, 2008, 04:58 PM

I have a VM, the one that looks like the 70's Jazz, natural with blocks. I've had no problems with it, and it sounds great. I'm not a bass expert by any means, I just run it through a litle Marshall Bass combo and it's spot on. Duncan designed pick ups in it. The wood and finish look amazing.

xjazzy · September 9th, 2008, 05:35 PM

Thanks to all.
This one it's on it's way:

xjazzy · October 6th, 2008, 04:27 PM

It's here:

Thanks Tim.

4mal · October 6th, 2008, 05:00 PM

Pretty!

mudbean · October 6th, 2008, 05:18 PM

Very nice. I still can't figure out how Rondo can sell these instruments so cheap. I might just have to get one of their Tele's.

mud

broadcaster · October 6th, 2008, 08:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mudbean

Very nice. I still can't figure out how Rondo can sell these instruments so cheap.

cheap = Chinese labor with lack of restrictive environmental laws.

Tim Armstrong · October 6th, 2008, 08:17 PM

Lovely bass! How are the pickups? I found the pickups and electronics were the only substandard thing about mine, but easily remedied...

Cheers, Tim

mudbean · October 6th, 2008, 08:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by broadcaster

cheap = Chinese labor with lack of restrictive environmental laws.

Oh. I was hoping it was due to magic.

mud

xjazzy · October 7th, 2008, 06:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tim Armstrong

Lovely bass! How are the pickups? I found the pickups and electronics were the only substandard thing about mine, but easily remedied...

Cheers, Tim

Probably the worst about it. But it's to do some home recording so it's pretty fine like this.
It plays really great.

Steve G · October 7th, 2008, 08:38 AM

Cool!
XJazzy, did you get it from Musicasa? Im wondering what theyd charge to ship an SX to the UK but my Spanish aint good and their English is almost as bad!

LFB1988 · October 7th, 2008, 01:23 PM

In response to the original question, I plopped myself down at GC yesterday determined to buy a bass. They had one CV and two VM Jazz Basses. One of the VM's had this amazing, perfectly flamed grain. I played that one first and then A-Bed it with the other VM, which didn't look as cool, but sounded miles better. It may have had something to do with old strings or pickup height, but the second bass had unquestionably better tone. Anyways, I then played the CV Jazz Bass, which I'd been curious about. It's about $300 as opposed to $280 for the VM. The Classic Vibe also had a great sound, and played well, but I couldn't really get away from that second Vintage Modified bass. I guess I found a gem (or at least not a lemon), but the CV and VM had slightly different, but equally intriguing tones. I think the deal breaker was the looks of the VM, as the CV is a little too boring for my tastes (I've never been a fan of straight up white). I got a free gig bag out of the deal too, so that was a plus. I'm happy.

xjazzy · October 7th, 2008, 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve G

Cool!
XJazzy, did you get it from Musicasa? Im wondering what theyd charge to ship an SX to the UK but my Spanish aint good and their English is almost as bad!

Yes, it was from Musicasa, but it was special order from some guys in a portuguese forum, so they made a special price. I paid 168€.

Steve G · October 9th, 2008, 04:42 AM

Cheers, comparable to the price from Rondo, but of course you dont get the big import taxes.

91xlntS-3 · October 19th, 2008, 12:31 PM

My bass player showed up at last nights gig with a new CV Jazz Bass. I have to tell you, this thing was SWEEEETTTT! I've owned several basses myself and he has had an array of different basses over the years, from cheap to ultar $$$, and this CV beat most of them hands down!!

The finish, and the feel of the neck and the fretwork were second to none, and we are both sometimes too "anal" about the smallest of things when it comes to instruments!

It was the only bass he brought last night (usually he brings 3). And we BOTH loved the way it sounded! He loved the way it felt and played, and he got it from a dealer in OH for $290 out the door!! Said he was going back to get the other 2 models Squier offered, and I can't wait to see the 50's P-Bass; I'm going to have to get me one of those, Oh Yeah!!

Of all the Fender and Peavey basses I have personally owned, this CV blows them all out of the water, especially for the $$$!

beep.click · October 19th, 2008, 05:34 PM

I just got the 50s P-Bass; it's really good. The neck is perfect.

91xlntS-3 · October 26th, 2008, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by beep.click

I just got the 50s P-Bass; it's really good. The neck is perfect.

Well, my buddy showed up to our gig last night with the CV 50's P bass and it is INCREDIBLE!! He had just bought the CV Jazz and was on the look out for the other 2 models and found the 50's P bass at a GC in Cincinnatti, OH. He already has found the 60's P Bass at another dealer, so our next gig he should have all 3 models.

I absolutely cannot believe the quality of these Squier models. Can't wait till I can sart acquiring the CV Tele and Strat (along with the 50's P Bass)!

jrfrond · October 27th, 2008, 04:10 PM

I recently checked out the CV P-Bass. I have to say, it was slammin'! REALLY good build quality. I'm NOT stoked by the blue finish, but it is subdued and looks nice. I hope we see more colors, because THEN I will actually buy one.

nashville sound · December 20th, 2008, 04:03 AM

Tim you talked me into it. SX SPB-57 MSL will be here Tuesday.

Ray Jr.
www.rayedenton.com

Tim Armstrong · December 20th, 2008, 04:10 AM

Cool! I hope you dig yours as much as I dig mine!

Tim

Gunny · December 20th, 2008, 09:07 AM

are you two really up at 4am today? hope it was post-gig time.

Tim Armstrong · December 20th, 2008, 12:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gunny

are you two really up at 4am today? hope it was post-gig time.

Unfortunately, I had just woken up to go to work...

Tim (who's halfway through his 20-hour day, getting ready to take a nap in his parked bus in NYC)

nashville sound · December 30th, 2008, 05:09 PM

Hey Tim my SXSPB-57 MLS is great! Neck on this bass awesome. Do you or anyone else have any experience with these pickups?http://accessories.musiciansfriend.c...kup?sku=301602

ray jr.
www.rayedenton.com

Tim Armstrong · December 30th, 2008, 05:34 PM

Glad to hear you're digging it! I expect that pickup ought to be quite nice.

Tim

Mic Stand · December 31st, 2008, 01:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nashville sound

Hey Tim my SXSPB-57 MLS is great! Neck on this bass awesome. Do you or anyone else have any experience with these pickups?http://accessories.musiciansfriend.c...kup?sku=301602

ray jr.
www.rayedenton.com

I've got one of the $110 SX P-Basses and upgraded to the Fender pickup - it's a nice vintage tone. When I was searching for a new pickup, I came across this thread w/mp3 samples, it may help you decide on something:

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=410553

I started out liking the Dimarzio, but eventually went with the Fender.

nashville sound · December 31st, 2008, 01:27 AM

Thanks Mic Stand, I think I'll go with the Fender pup, very clean sound to me.

ray jr.

Tim Armstrong · December 31st, 2008, 08:12 AM

Hey Ray, you might also consider upgrading the pots and jack. I did, after the volume pot crapped out on me at a gig! I got the P-Bass Wiring Kit from Stewmac...

Tim

Mic Stand · December 31st, 2008, 09:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tim Armstrong

Hey Ray, you might also consider upgrading the pots and jack. I did, after the volume pot crapped out on me at a gig! I got the P-Bass Wiring Kit from Stewmac...

Tim

I'll second this upgrade. The pots inside my SX were smaller than a dime (and looked like they were worth that much) and one of the wires was hanging on by a thread.

...

Oh, and if you're looking for a good price on the Fender pickup:
http://store.tubedepot.com/fenderpickups.html

nashville sound · January 1st, 2009, 11:57 AM

Thanks guys for all the good advice. That is what makes this forum so great!

ray jr.

charlie chitlin · January 6th, 2009, 10:01 PM

I just got an SX in the mail.
Seems pretty amazing for the money.
I'm going to leave it around and hope the kids pick it up and mess with it.
I told them not to touch it, so they're sure to be interested!

titaniumslide · January 7th, 2009, 04:58 PM

C.C. I always tried to incourage my kids to play music, I never thought of telling them an instrument was forbidden. I hope it's not too late.

Just after Xmas I did buy a Squire CV Jazz Bass and I'm liking it alot. I have not changed the strings yet, my fingers are crying out for Flat Wounds. The main thing I'm discovering is that less can be so much more, now if my ADD self can just take a deep breath and calm down.

Duffy · January 26th, 2009, 11:50 AM

I just hand picked a beautiful '50s Classic Vibe stratocaster and it is really great all over the neck. I don't think I have a guitar that sounds so universally great all over the neck. Great low action, perfect right out of the store. Great deal too, like two ninety eight out the door.

I play bass too and would love to get one of the CV's. Which CV bass sounds best for regular r and r and blues? I like the look of that tele one.

Duffy

August 31st, 2008, 06:41 AM	#1 (permalink)
xjazzy Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Portugal Age: 29 Posts: 1,706 6 Photos	Squier VM vs Classic Vibe Hello. I'm a guitar player but I need a bass around the house for some recording. Nothing much. Just some ideas. I'm wondering what do you guys, bass players, think about the Squier Jazz Bass VM and the new Classic Vibe JB. I don't want to spend too much money, so the VM (the fretted one) is less expensive and I like the look. I don't have the opportunity to play them before buy, unfortunately. __________________ Still got the Twang! myspace.com/jpmartins

August 31st, 2008, 08:48 AM	#2 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Doctor of Teleocity Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ocean Pines, Maryland, USA Age: 50 Posts: 13,150	I'd prefer the Classic Vibe, because it has a more, well, classic vibe! But if I wanted to get a decent bass for short dollars, I'd get an SX from Rondo Music like THIS ONE: Don't let the covers weird you out, they can be removed! I'm presently gigging with a short-scale SX P-bass copy that, after a pickup upgrade, is stupid good! Cheers, Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

August 31st, 2008, 10:01 AM	#4 (permalink)
BigDaveyTwinkle TDPRI Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Kansas City Age: 42 Posts: 72	I would second the Rondo SX vote. Got mine for $149. New Dimarzio Ultra Jazz pickups for $100, complete wiring kit for $18. With all new electronics and better pickups, I am still under the cost of a Squier for a better bass in my opinion. My experience ordering from Rondo was first class. Otherwise, if the CV bass is to the VM as the CV guitar is to the MIM, the Vibe is the way to go ... __________________ "Music is love in search of a word." - Sidney Lanier Last edited by BigDaveyTwinkle; August 31st, 2008 at 10:04 AM. Reason: clarification of guitar model

August 31st, 2008, 10:03 AM	#5 (permalink)
xjazzy Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Portugal Age: 29 Posts: 1,706 6 Photos	Hey Tim, I've thought about SX but I don't want to buy it from overseas. And Here SX and Squier are almost the same price. __________________ Still got the Twang! myspace.com/jpmartins

August 31st, 2008, 03:26 PM	#6 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Doctor of Teleocity Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ocean Pines, Maryland, USA Age: 50 Posts: 13,150	I didn't notice that you're in Portugal! I think the SX build quality is as good or better than any of the Squiers that I've tried, but the Squier has better stock electronics. I'd think that probably makes the Squier a better deal! Cheers, Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

August 31st, 2008, 07:28 PM	#7 (permalink)
xjazzy Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Portugal Age: 29 Posts: 1,706 6 Photos	By my calculation, the price of Rondo including ship and taxes would be lower than the Squier. I've also found a Spanish store who as a price close to the Rondo with all the ship + taxes. Now, what SX to get? That one that Tim showed is nice. What do I have to look for? I like the stile of JB but I now anything about them... __________________ Still got the Twang! myspace.com/jpmartins

September 7th, 2008, 04:58 PM	#8 (permalink)
Gareth John Tele-Holic Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: England Age: 24 Posts: 833 8 Photos	I have a VM, the one that looks like the 70's Jazz, natural with blocks. I've had no problems with it, and it sounds great. I'm not a bass expert by any means, I just run it through a litle Marshall Bass combo and it's spot on. Duncan designed pick ups in it. The wood and finish look amazing.

September 9th, 2008, 05:35 PM	#9 (permalink)
xjazzy Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Portugal Age: 29 Posts: 1,706 6 Photos	Thanks to all. This one it's on it's way: __________________ Still got the Twang! myspace.com/jpmartins

October 6th, 2008, 04:27 PM	#10 (permalink)
xjazzy Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Portugal Age: 29 Posts: 1,706 6 Photos	It's here: Thanks Tim. __________________ Still got the Twang! myspace.com/jpmartins

October 6th, 2008, 05:00 PM	#11 (permalink)
4mal Friend of Leo's Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: The Gorge Posts: 2,510	Pretty!

October 6th, 2008, 05:18 PM	#12 (permalink)
mudbean Friend of Leo's Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: SoCal Semi-Desert Semi-Paradise Age: 50 Posts: 3,189 10 Photos	Very nice. I still can't figure out how Rondo can sell these instruments so cheap. I might just have to get one of their Tele's. mud __________________ MudBean Music Nekkid Bart: "This is the worst day of my life." Laffing Homer: "Worst day SO FAR!!"

October 6th, 2008, 08:17 PM	#14 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Doctor of Teleocity Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ocean Pines, Maryland, USA Age: 50 Posts: 13,150	Lovely bass! How are the pickups? I found the pickups and electronics were the only substandard thing about mine, but easily remedied... Cheers, Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

October 7th, 2008, 08:38 AM	#17 (permalink)
Steve G Friend of Leo's Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: LeeK (England) Age: 33 Posts: 2,451 64 Photos	Cool! XJazzy, did you get it from Musicasa? Im wondering what theyd charge to ship an SX to the UK but my Spanish aint good and their English is almost as bad! __________________ "He was a drinkin' man with a guitar problem..." http://www.myspace.com/stevegiddings http://www.myspace.com/hiandlonesome

October 7th, 2008, 01:23 PM	#18 (permalink)
LFB1988 TDPRI Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: St. Louis Age: 21 Posts: 69	In response to the original question, I plopped myself down at GC yesterday determined to buy a bass. They had one CV and two VM Jazz Basses. One of the VM's had this amazing, perfectly flamed grain. I played that one first and then A-Bed it with the other VM, which didn't look as cool, but sounded miles better. It may have had something to do with old strings or pickup height, but the second bass had unquestionably better tone. Anyways, I then played the CV Jazz Bass, which I'd been curious about. It's about $300 as opposed to $280 for the VM. The Classic Vibe also had a great sound, and played well, but I couldn't really get away from that second Vintage Modified bass. I guess I found a gem (or at least not a lemon), but the CV and VM had slightly different, but equally intriguing tones. I think the deal breaker was the looks of the VM, as the CV is a little too boring for my tastes (I've never been a fan of straight up white). I got a free gig bag out of the deal too, so that was a plus. I'm happy.

October 9th, 2008, 04:42 AM	#20 (permalink)
Steve G Friend of Leo's Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: LeeK (England) Age: 33 Posts: 2,451 64 Photos	Cheers, comparable to the price from Rondo, but of course you dont get the big import taxes. __________________ "He was a drinkin' man with a guitar problem..." http://www.myspace.com/stevegiddings http://www.myspace.com/hiandlonesome

October 19th, 2008, 12:31 PM	#21 (permalink)
91xlntS-3 Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 1,441	My bass player showed up at last nights gig with a new CV Jazz Bass. I have to tell you, this thing was SWEEEETTTT! I've owned several basses myself and he has had an array of different basses over the years, from cheap to ultar $$$, and this CV beat most of them hands down!! The finish, and the feel of the neck and the fretwork were second to none, and we are both sometimes too "anal" about the smallest of things when it comes to instruments! It was the only bass he brought last night (usually he brings 3). And we BOTH loved the way it sounded! He loved the way it felt and played, and he got it from a dealer in OH for $290 out the door!! Said he was going back to get the other 2 models Squier offered, and I can't wait to see the 50's P-Bass; I'm going to have to get me one of those, Oh Yeah!! Of all the Fender and Peavey basses I have personally owned, this CV blows them all out of the water, especially for the $$$!

October 19th, 2008, 05:34 PM	#22 (permalink)
beep.click Friend of Leo's Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: California Age: 50 Posts: 3,208	I just got the 50s P-Bass; it's really good. The neck is perfect. __________________ "It looked like a giant green gum drop to me."

October 27th, 2008, 04:10 PM	#24 (permalink)
jrfrond Tele-Holic Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Long Island, NY Posts: 537	I recently checked out the CV P-Bass. I have to say, it was slammin'! REALLY good build quality. I'm NOT stoked by the blue finish, but it is subdued and looks nice. I hope we see more colors, because THEN I will actually buy one. __________________ *John R. Frondelli*

December 20th, 2008, 04:10 AM	#26 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Doctor of Teleocity Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ocean Pines, Maryland, USA Age: 50 Posts: 13,150	Cool! I hope you dig yours as much as I dig mine! Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

December 20th, 2008, 09:07 AM	#27 (permalink)
Gunny Tele-Meister Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Ajax, near Toronto Posts: 108	are you two really up at 4am today? hope it was post-gig time.

December 30th, 2008, 05:09 PM	#29 (permalink)
nashville sound TDPRI Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: tennessee Posts: 58	Hey Tim my SXSPB-57 MLS is great! Neck on this bass awesome. Do you or anyone else have any experience with these pickups?http://accessories.musiciansfriend.c...kup?sku=301602 ray jr. www.rayedenton.com

December 30th, 2008, 05:34 PM	#30 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Doctor of Teleocity Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ocean Pines, Maryland, USA Age: 50 Posts: 13,150	Glad to hear you're digging it! I expect that pickup ought to be quite nice. Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

December 31st, 2008, 01:27 AM	#32 (permalink)
nashville sound TDPRI Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: tennessee Posts: 58	Thanks Mic Stand, I think I'll go with the Fender pup, very clean sound to me. ray jr.

December 31st, 2008, 08:12 AM	#33 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Doctor of Teleocity Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ocean Pines, Maryland, USA Age: 50 Posts: 13,150	Hey Ray, you might also consider upgrading the pots and jack. I did, after the volume pot crapped out on me at a gig! I got the P-Bass Wiring Kit from Stewmac... Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

January 1st, 2009, 11:57 AM	#35 (permalink)
nashville sound TDPRI Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: tennessee Posts: 58	Thanks guys for all the good advice. That is what makes this forum so great! ray jr.

2009 TDPRI Giveaway Winners List is available HERE

IMPORTANT:Treat everyone here with respect, no matter how difficult! No sex, drug, political, religion or hate discussion permitted here.

January 6th, 2009, 10:01 PM	#36 (permalink)
charlie chitlin Friend of Leo's Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Bucktown, Pa Age: 48 Posts: 3,497	I just got an SX in the mail. Seems pretty amazing for the money. I'm going to leave it around and hope the kids pick it up and mess with it. I told them not to touch it, so they're sure to be interested! __________________ Dig yo'self http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm...6-bf3537901a07

January 7th, 2009, 04:58 PM	#37 (permalink)
titaniumslide TDPRI Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Minneapolis, MN Age: 56 Posts: 42	C.C. I always tried to incourage my kids to play music, I never thought of telling them an instrument was forbidden. I hope it's not too late. Just after Xmas I did buy a Squire CV Jazz Bass and I'm liking it alot. I have not changed the strings yet, my fingers are crying out for Flat Wounds. The main thing I'm discovering is that less can be so much more, now if my ADD self can just take a deep breath and calm down.

January 26th, 2009, 11:50 AM	#38 (permalink)
Duffy TDPRI Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Winfield, Pa, USA Age: 60 Posts: 99	Classic Vibe I just hand picked a beautiful '50s Classic Vibe stratocaster and it is really great all over the neck. I don't think I have a guitar that sounds so universally great all over the neck. Great low action, perfect right out of the store. Great deal too, like two ninety eight out the door. I play bass too and would love to get one of the CV's. Which CV bass sounds best for regular r and r and blues? I like the look of that tele one. Duffy