i own a Squier CV 70s Precision. I have switched the pickups out to the Seymour Duncan STKJ2B. It sounds killer. I own alot of high end instuments and i must say, the Squier bass does not feel cheap in any way. I have recorded a whole album with the bass in my studio, and it sounds perfect in the mix. With a proper setup, this bass is just fantastic and versatile, so I totally agree that this is a fine instrument and should not in any way keep people from buying this over any other Precision from Fender.
Trying to figure out my pick up situation. I got a FRS 70's Squire CV PBass on offer up. Switching pick guards I noticed the pickups have a cloth wire cover instead of what I expected. Did these basses come with upgraded PUPs or did the previous owner upgrade? Thinking about upgrading to Seymour or Fender PUPs. Thanks for the insight.
Keep up the great videos Tyler! I love how you get really in depth when it comes to reviews compared to other channels. Thank you for this vid in particular!
I needed to know if I wanted this bass aside from its pretty aesthetics. Thank you for your in-depth review, because it was the selling point for me grabbing this bass. Also, you just gained a new subscriber 😁
Great Review!!!! One thing of note, the neck width at the nut is 1.685 which is a little wider than the modern precision bass nut width of the 1.625. The 70s precision bass guitars produced by Fender during that decade were actually about 1.685 much slimmer than the 1.75 nut width used by Fender during the 50s and 60s.
No problem at all my man! Let me know about cases if you need help. My email/contact available on my website if you wanna talk! (A google of my name + bass will get you there!) T
Tyler thank you so much for that important informations. I just bought it and it sounds very good. It needed a little trus rod correction and the strings action. I played in the music shops on Fenders player and vintera series and I have to say that classic vibe Squier is just great!!!
Great review man, I appreciate your insight on how the body material may actually make it more mid rangey ideal for pick and which is my preference. Also your other tips on neck and your practical demo ect were informative. I think this bass, especially it's colour is my dream bass and not too expensive. Thanks again for your help!
Great review Tyler...! I have several Squier basses (2x jazz, 2x precision and 2x PJ) All.of which have been played live and have recorded with and all of them have different tones. I dont really need another bass to add to collection, but, seeing this review has just changed my mind. Thats a great looking bass...! Squier has come a long way from what they used to be, they are very, very good instruments.
Hey Lee, thank you for watching my videos! It is a great looking bass, and something that never actually got made in the 70s which I think is kinda cool! You can get very far with a modern Squier! Enjoy your Squiers and the CV 70s when you get it! T
I bought one of these bass guitars for my collection and Dave at K.S.M music in Logan Utah put a K.S.M bridge on it and a quarter pounder pickup in it it's great 👍
Nice review, I'm going to uprgrade from a Squier PJ Bass (Affinity) to a CV 70s Precision bass, thanks for help me with the choice!!. I hope in the future upgrade to a Precision USA Fender!!
Eduardo Apablaza thank you for the support, and glad I could help! Definitely worth setting your sights on those USA basses - particularly the ones being made in this era of Fender. Companions for life! T
Very nice! This bass really seems to love that 50%ish tone mix for all styles. It's not piercing, but it's got enough clarity that you can hear the notes.
I have Squier P-bass bought over twenty years ago (not used professionally) from Holmes Music in Swindon. It's never had a gig bag or case, it's slightly beaten up after several house moves and a house fire, but it still works perfectly. I seem to remember it costing me £189. There were no classic vibes or whatever in those days, it was "here is a Squier P-Bass, take it or leave it, you can have it in black". No idea what Squiers are like now, but this bass will leave my hands on the day I die!
I think you just had Squiers or Squier Affinity series back then. The Affinity version should say 'Affinity' somewhere on the headstock. Those were the cheaper ones and weren't great afaik. The normal Squiers were fine.
@@OttosTheName Mine is an Affinity it seems. Still stand by my original comments - for £189 twenty years ago this bass works so well. After a little research on how to set up a bass guitar (there was no youtube in those days) I didn't feel the need to spend over a grand on a US made bass, couldn't bloody afford it anyway!
I mainly play guitar and own a Classic Vibe Jazz bass because of the nut spacing (easier for guitar players to use). I never was comfortable with the P Bass until I picked up the CV P-Bass and noticed the nut spacing was almost like my J-Bass, bought it on the spot!!
Absolutely! The latest rumbles are great sounding amps, and being that they’re Fenders, they really play nicely with Fender basses. It’ll sound great, but if you have the little extra, I would move for the 100, especially as that 1x12 speaker is just that little fatter and warmer, and the 100w will make the amp feel effortlessly full, even if you’re not using all of the watts. I find bass is all about headroom when it comes to tone! T
I’m a guitarist/pianist, but when I picked up this bass in my local shop it instantly clicked. I had played basses a few times before but none felt like this one to me.
love this bass, sadly my local Stores never carry it, i'm only interested in that same one in your review, love the brown and black inlay and sounds killer for my needs
I bought this bass in black and I've had it for a month already. Overall, the instrument looks very nice. The neck is perfect and is surprisingly thin, pots feel very nice. However, the zero nut is made of some crap material and the slots are cut a hair too wide for the strings they put on it (surprisingly a set of Daddarios ) - mainly on E-string which creates funny buzz at the headstock. I'll have that replaced by tusq and cut to match the new set of Rotosound RS66 I'll be putting on. Another thing is the bridge, where the E string saddle keeps lowering itself quite significantly after a short time of playing. I was also surprised how much the saddles move around when the bass is played harder. The bridge will get replaced by a Fender hi mass one.
That's the problem with these Squires, you always gotta swap things out to try and make them keepers, money that could have went towards a better made, full size MIM..
It's all down to the amount of money you want to put into the instrument. My squier was 355 euros new with free shipping. A MIM one was exactly double that, and I simply loved the looks of the CV 70s. Now that I've replaced the strings with a set of Rotosounds (I would have done that on any bass regardless), the zero nut issue got fixed. Turned out they put some weird light set of strings on the bass (E was .095") and there is no funny buzz. The Fender Hi mass bridge was 33 euros. I would also have put that on MIM bass.. So I'm 388 euro (400 USD) into the instrument, which IMHO does not require anything else.. Funny thing is, from the amount of MIM Fenders I've tried in the music store, none of them was set up as good as any of the CV (or VM or affinity even) Squiers which were hanging next to those fenders...
Man, excellent review! I'm thinking about buying one of these and your review was very elucidating. But I had a doubt, in some sites there is the information that the body is made of poplar, not nato. There are different woods being used or may it be a regional issue (I'm in Brasil)? Do you have some toughts on this?
Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! I would still expect the bass to be made of NATO regardless of region as they are all built in Indonesia. I’ve seen many listings posted incorrectly from a variety of stores so it may simply be that they’ve put in some wrong Iformation. There will be a tonal difference between the two woods (if it is indeed poplar), but not as significant as different pickups or fretboard woods. I hope that helps! T
@@TylerSpicer thanks for replying so fast. Interesting issue. I saw that info in the brazilian squier site. This made me think that it may be a legal question, since Brazil has very rigid ambiental laws, but I'm not sure, I'll search for more informations. But assuming it is poplar, what would be the tonal difference between it and nato?
V G definitely could be the case! Poplar will have more low end and a lot of punch. A little less high-mid content. It’s a lot like alder but with a bigger low end. T
how much of the wood lets be seen the walnut finish? it looks very flat ..BUT I've seen pictures which show a lot of the wood underneath the laquer excelent review btw!
Long time guitar player for 20 years. Believe it or not this will be my first bass. Never played bass before but I just bought this and I'm so excited. Any tips on a guitarist learning to play bass? I know it's not all root notes but I'm hoping I can transition fairly quickly.
That’s awesome! Thanks for watching and reaching out! I think my 3 bits of advice would be: 1. Think melodically 2. Play as little as possible to still serve the song (at first) 3. Focus on getting a big tone with right hand finger placement and pick techniques! T
I purchased the exact same bass about 6 months ago. I'd say in general the fit, finish and overall playability (in the end) are excellent. The main thing to note if purchasing one of these is that there are some quality control issue and the setup on mine was absolutely terrible. The action was unacceptably high and the intonation was way off; it took me several days of adjustment to get it playable. One of the solder joints on my output jack was done poorly and the wire completely fell off on stage (what a nightmare), so you might want to take off the pickguard and check that everything is properly soldered before taking it out gigging. I'd say that its a great bass for the money and I love it, but be aware that it might take some work to get it playing right.
Hi T. I have this same bass, I really love the sound but sometimes..depending on the song mood..I'm missing low E..or F low end..bass punch or body when playing fingerstyle..any advise? I'm using this bass with a Hartke 350 watts 4x10 really powerful with my musicman
Hey! Double check the break angle on the strings at the bridge and nut and see if it helps! Just push them down slightly behind both. This can sometimes be the answer on its own! T
I just got back from my local music store, tried this very model out. There was a Fender American Player right next to it, so i tried them both. I liked the Squire more! Tone was similar, weights were quite similar. The only real difference was the neck. The Player was a wee bit chunkier, the Squier a bit more J bass like, but not crazy. Oh and price. Squire at $500, the Player at a little over a grand. I'm buying the Squier! I tried out the CV jazz too.. competes closely also. And i tried out the Affinity series p/j bass too. A bit rougher, but still pretty damn good for $300!
Thank you for this great video. This has the perfect bass tone I would want. Do you know how the vintage modified series compares ? Is this the nato body light ? I have the vintage modified jazz bass but I think I want to sell that and buy this. How would the neck compare ? The 70s jazz bass vintage modifed has a really nice slim neck.
Thank you! I have my own thoughts on B strings and P pickups. I find that because the poles of a Fender P pickup are quite far forward on the bottom 2 strings, I don’t find that B strings speak with any definition or authority on a P. If you have a jazz bass pickup in the back as well it becomes a different matter, but I find this is the same even with my Sadowsky PJ5 when I solo the P pickup. I also think a thicker neck helps when you’re stringing with a low B, and being that this is quite a slim profile I’m not sure it would be ideal. That’s not to say it wouldn’t work and you wouldn’t be happy with it, but if I were you, I’d check out a PJ or a Jazz bass for BEAD. That rear pickup is going give you a lot more harmonic content and really make that B string sing. All just my opinion, and experience and what works for you may be different, but those are just my thoughts! T
Tyler, could yoy also do the Squier 60's classic vibe? I know you did the Jazz, but maybe you can do the P? I'm really tempted to get one of those? Love your vids btw.
Mike C thanks Mike! I did a comparison video with the CV 60s, USA and MIM P - it’s on the front page of my channel in the “all you need To know bass show” section. Have a look there and see if that works for you! If not I’ll see if they’ve still got one at the shop and if they can get it to me. T
@@TylerSpicer I'll look forward to watching it, if you make it. I'm more of a guitarist than a bass player. I've started writing songs and want to demo them so that's why I've decided to get a bass. My needs/skill level doesn't really warrant me buying an American Fender, but the Squier seems ideal. Not too costly, looks great and sounds good too. Ideal for my requirements.
Hmm. is it the lighting in the video giving the neck that nice color? as my CV 70s P-bass doesn't have that yellow/orange sexy neck. Its just plain light tan and doesn't look nearly as sleek.
I think it’s purely the amount of coating applied to the neck. Tbh, the more they put on it’s normally as less naturally good - looking piece, so despite the lack of colour on yours, it’s probably a nicer wood! T
Do you have walnut as well? Just browsed on sweetwateers website and noticed that the necks are slightly different on the two basses. www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PBassCV70BLK--squier-classic-vibe-70s-precision-bass-black
Tyler Spicer thanks for the reply. One last question, which one is lighter between the this one and a fender player series? I recently bought the classic vibe, but now im wondering if i should return it for a used player series. Too bad everything is locked down right now.
Hi! what kind of tweaks and upgrades would you recommend (strings, pickups, etc.) to make it a better instrument and get the most out of it within a reasonable budget? I think I've decided to get this bass :D
Hello! Great choice! It’s a very solid bass as it is, but if you want to upgrade things, first thing should be strings! Strings are THE biggest part of your sound so try different brands and see what you like. Next would be the pickup. That again depends on your taste but anything from Nordstrand, Aguilar, Seymour Duncan, dimarzio or even Fender’s custom shop range will be an improvement. Beyond that I would upgrade the tuners, but really until they break or you’ve upgraded everything else I wouldn’t worry too much. I hope that helps! Let me know if you need to know anything else! It’s a solid bass as it is so I wouldn’t worry about feeling you *have* to upgrade it! T
I got the 60s p bass. I find the neck is nice and chunky, 1.685, compared to the 1.5 in width of a jazz bass. I like both p and jazz necks. Sometimes I want a narrow feel and other times a like a wider feel.
I'm torn between the 60s and 70s p bass. Based on your review, what I can hear is the 60s has a more beefy and low sound while the 70s is brighter.. I love the look of the 70s and the maple neck but.... the sound of the 60s. Due to Covid-19 I can't try out any of the bass. This will be my 1st bass..😎 What you you recommend Tyler? Thanks.
@Mitch Wild will the neck wood take damage if its not coated with anything or is the glossy finish so thick that there will still be more finish under it?
I’m normally a 60s guy when it comes to P Bass spec but in this instance I’d choose the 70s! I think the pickup in the 70s was clearer, I felt the construction was a little better with the binding around the outside of the instrument, and I preferred the neck profile. I also think it looks great! The 60s is still a solid instrument and gets a lot of love on the comparison video (which by the sounds of it you’ve seen!) but I would go for the Vintera, or Original for a 60s style and feel, as well as better pickups. So out of those two, the 70s CV. 👌🏻 T
Hi Tyler, great review as always. I was looking at this bass specifically because it's shamefully sexy and so cheap, honestly i don't know about one single fender bass that looks as good. One thing you said that kind of worries me; does it lack bottom end? You think this bass suits funk? I have a mustang P/J and was looking at full scales specifically for the low end. Do you think this would be a downgrade? Thanks!
Thank you for the kind words and support! It’s a great looking bass for sure. I should probably clarify on the low end comment! Solo’d and in a sparse mix, in comparison to alder or ash, there isn’t as much fundamental. However, in the mix I think it sounds great - it’s funny how sometimes what I hear in the room doesn’t come across in the same way when listening back to the recording. I think in the context of funk this bass will sound good and sit sweetly on top of the kick drum. I personally love a sound with quite a lot of low end, hence it being one of the things I noticed most immediately. If I’m honest, I do think that the P pickup on the PJ mustang does share a similarity to this bass in the midrange. They are different, but more similar than say a Rosewood+Alder P. Perhaps most significantly between the 2 is the feel, I find I play a mustang very differently to a P just based on what the dimensions facilitate. Let me know if that helps! T
Thanks for the answer! Yeah, so my problem, having started on the mustang, is that i use my pinky on the 5th fret and don't change positions enough. I'll soon be switching to upright because i just dig the sound loads more, but will still be playing e-bass. The thing with the p/j mustang is that i learn the technique the wrong way and am worried i'll have to re adjust quite heavily for a full scale or upright. That's why i was looking for a cheap quality p-bass, to have an electric to complement the upright. Other than my personal technique issue with it i don't have a single bad thing to say about the mustang p/j except for maybe the lack of power in the sound of the first few frets on the E string.
t omate O soop upright is an entirely different technique so I wouldn’t consider them the same at all. As a doubler (I’ve played both for a few years now) I can recommend playing the more traditional left hand technique of 1st finger, 2nd finger and 3+4th fingers used together as the best way to play in tune. Generally it’s difficult to reproduce a good and in tune tone using the pinky on its own (and more difficult depending on your action). In truth you’re going to have to learn a new technique no matter what, but it will be worth putting the hours in. I don’t think using the pinky on the fifth fret is in itself a problem - but it’s definitely unusual to see, especially when there’s choice to use an open string on the bottom 3 strings. T
Larson Abilla haha! I don’t blame you! If you want that kinda tone, I’d go for the classic vibe 60s precision bass. That’ll give you the right tone with flats for that motown vibe 👌🏻 La Bella Deep Talkin flats if you want the full on motown sound and string, but they are very tense and quite hard work. If not any flat will get you in the ball park and very close! T
Nice review Tyler, I'm thinking of buying a classic vibe 60's but after watching your review I'm kind of undecided. On your opinion you prefer the 70's over the 60's? What are the differences in tone? Greetings from Spain
Brian Fanjul Alonso I did prefer the 70s over the 60s yes - which is unusual for me! I think the 70s had a little more definition, and the binding around the edge was a nice feature. On the 60s the edges of the fretboard weren’t particularly well done, and that really took away from what was otherwise a good bass. Overall this 70s just felt a little higher quality. T
Hi, Tyler! First of all I really enjoy your channel. Your content is so informative. Thank you and keep up the good work! Last week I was torn between this 70's Squier and a 50's Vintera precision. I went home with the Vintera, but the Classic Vibe keeps hunting me. I liked the focused midrange sound, but I read multiple times that they overall quality is less than the older Chinese made ones (tuners etc). Do you think I should go for a new made CV or wait for an older Chinese one to cross my path. I know I'm crazy, but I'm a sucker for P-basses. I really like the Vintera though. What do you think of them? Greetings from Belgium!
Having tried both I would say the vintera is the better bass. It seems to just have more "mojo" to me. Could be the big chunky neck, but I feel it just felt really good and like a life long instrument. Squiers are really good basses and I can see myself getting one of these, though one day I think I'll upgrade. I'm in new Zealand and I can't get one of the vinteras here otherwise I'd be after one.
SadBoiFrxzty thank you! It’s just a little loop I came up with. It’s the same with all my videos, I just make up a little groove before each to try and keep it fresh! T
Depends on your taste in tone, but typically a Jazz will have a smaller neck that's easier to get around. I started on jazz basses, but once I played a P, the tone grabbed me. I still play a jazz when needed, but I'm a P or PJ man at heart. For any of those genres the Fender tone no matter which bass will do the job! T
Hey man! If I’m honest - I’m not sure 😂 They will have just been offered it, the Guitar Centre deals with a load of Fender stock and has a great relationship with the reps so getting things in is pretty easy. I’m sure they could get this one shipped across for you? T
Hey Tyler. First of all, thanks for the nice viddy! I’m looking for a bass for my little home studio and to record my demo songs with. I’m studying songwriting and need a decent bass for my demo’s. I play guitar and this will be my first bass.. would you recommend this one? My main genre is indie/dreampop. Would it fit this style?
No problem at all! Thank you for watching! Definitely, the P is a classic in those styles and the 70s Squier has the thinnest neck of any P I’ve played, so you’re likely gonna be comfortable enough moving from guitar. The only other bass I’d maybe suggest is the 60s CV Mustang (or any Mustang). Again gonna sound great in that style with the added benefit of being a little smaller, so more guitar sized, and with an even smaller neck. I think you’ll find in general that the P and Mustang will fit into your songwriting mixes quickest and with the least tweaking - they might not stand out as much but will likely support the song better. Don’t forget to use the tone control if you want more bottom end and less attack and midrange from either; they can sound a bit aggressive in a sparse mix or arrangement, but that toe control will taper it right back and make it sit beautifully. I’m normally grabbing a bass with a P pickup for any of my demos, so I’d say you can’t go wrong! T
Your reviews are among the very best on youtube IMO. Keep doing what you're doing, and thank you.
Thank you, Sir! Very much appreciated! T
i own a Squier CV 70s Precision. I have switched the pickups out to the Seymour Duncan STKJ2B. It sounds killer. I own alot of high end instuments and i must say, the Squier bass does not feel cheap in any way. I have recorded a whole album with the bass in my studio, and it sounds perfect in the mix. With a proper setup, this bass is just fantastic and versatile, so I totally agree that this is a fine instrument and should not in any way keep people from buying this over any other Precision from Fender.
Trying to figure out my pick up situation. I got a FRS 70's Squire CV PBass on offer up. Switching pick guards I noticed the pickups have a cloth wire cover instead of what I expected. Did these basses come with upgraded PUPs or did the previous owner upgrade? Thinking about upgrading to Seymour or Fender PUPs. Thanks for the insight.
I may install Seymour Duncan SPB1 pickups. However the stock pickups sound great so I may keep it is as is….at least for the next 10 years maybe
Keep up the great videos Tyler! I love how you get really in depth when it comes to reviews compared to other channels. Thank you for this vid in particular!
Thanks Jay! Your views are much appreciated as is the support and kind words. More videos coming - always! T
I need this bass now
did you get it?
@@oldandeerie I actually did, had it for half a year now. Great bass!
Just got one after a lifetime of vintage P's.....its very good and the cheap price makes it even better, lovely instrument.
I bought an hour ago this one in surf green! I am so excited, i cant wait until wednesday! Thank for post this video, it helped me on the decision
Amazing! I think the surf green looks great! No problem at all, I hope you enjoy it! T
Same here, got mine about a month ago!! Great choice :)
7 months later, how are you liking it?
I needed to know if I wanted this bass aside from its pretty aesthetics. Thank you for your in-depth review, because it was the selling point for me grabbing this bass. Also, you just gained a new subscriber 😁
Nice! I've been looking into a Squire Classic Vibe (either 60s or 70s) Bass for a while now. Thank you for such a complete review!
Ethan Michael no problem! Thank you for watching! Both good basses! T
Beautiful bass. I love the walnut finish.
It’s a nice touch, something a bit different. T
Perfect video again Tyler and your thoroughness is so enlightening. Cheers mate and have a great one👍
Stephen Costello thanks Stephen, much appreciated! T
Great Review!!!! One thing of note, the neck width at the nut is 1.685 which is a little wider than the modern precision bass nut width of the 1.625. The 70s precision bass guitars produced by Fender during that decade were actually about 1.685 much slimmer than the 1.75 nut width used by Fender during the 50s and 60s.
grabbed one of these after watching the review and i love it! it actually feels and plays like a fender! thank you :D
Glad you like it! They're very good basses for the money! T
This P bass is All a Musician needs. Thank you Very Much for this review. Am already in Love with this bass!
Hard to go wrong with a P or a J! 💪🏻
This videos the reason I got my squier cv 70’s. Thanks for the help
No problem at all my man! Let me know about cases if you need help. My email/contact available on my website if you wanna talk! (A google of my name + bass will get you there!) T
I've been waiting for this review particularly. Thank you!
Thank you for the kind words! Much appreciated! T
Tyler thank you so much for that important informations. I just bought it and it sounds very good. It needed a little trus rod correction and the strings action.
I played in the music shops on Fenders player and vintera series and I have to say that classic vibe Squier is just great!!!
Great review man, I appreciate your insight on how the body material may actually make it more mid rangey ideal for pick and which is my preference. Also your other tips on neck and your practical demo ect were informative. I think this bass, especially it's colour is my dream bass and not too expensive. Thanks again for your help!
No problem at all! Thank you for watching and the kind feedback! T
Thanks for the nice review! Everything is clear and understandable ...
Regards, Alexander.
Thanks for great review of this Bass! I’m sure live through your Aguilar rig every bass would sound amazing!
No problem! Thank you for the support. The Aguilar rig does help 😉 T
Yes I like the Walnut version, it has a nice finish to it.
This was really helpful, Tyler. Thank you!
Great review Tyler...!
I have several Squier basses (2x jazz, 2x precision and 2x PJ)
All.of which have been played live and have recorded with and all of them have different tones.
I dont really need another bass to add to collection, but, seeing this review has just changed my mind.
Thats a great looking bass...!
Squier has come a long way from what they used to be, they are very, very good instruments.
Hey Lee, thank you for watching my videos! It is a great looking bass, and something that never actually got made in the 70s which I think is kinda cool! You can get very far with a modern Squier! Enjoy your Squiers and the CV 70s when you get it! T
@@TylerSpicer I will mate 👍
Keep up the good work.
Bought this one, this review helped me with the deciscion, thanks
Bart Schukking you’re welcome! Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! T
You've got some soul in you. And I'm here for it!
I bought one of these bass guitars for my collection and Dave at K.S.M music in Logan Utah put a K.S.M bridge on it and a quarter pounder pickup in it it's great 👍
Hello, do you like this model or the the same but the version before the one with the bridge chrome cover & the black plastic finger rest ?
Nice review, I'm going to uprgrade from a Squier PJ Bass (Affinity) to a CV 70s Precision bass, thanks for help me with the choice!!. I hope in the future upgrade to a Precision USA Fender!!
Eduardo Apablaza thank you for the support, and glad I could help! Definitely worth setting your sights on those USA basses - particularly the ones being made in this era of Fender. Companions for life! T
wished I had one. might buy one!
Great and informative video, Cheers!
Very nice! This bass really seems to love that 50%ish tone mix for all styles.
It's not piercing, but it's got enough clarity that you can hear the notes.
This is the review I was looking for, thanks so much
You’re welcome! Thank you so much for your kind words and supporting the channel! T
Going to pick this up for my studio!
Can't go wrong having a P bass around for a studio. Instant classic bass tone! T
I have Squier P-bass bought over twenty years ago (not used professionally) from Holmes Music in Swindon. It's never had a gig bag or case, it's slightly beaten up after several house moves and a house fire, but it still works perfectly. I seem to remember it costing me £189. There were no classic vibes or whatever in those days, it was "here is a Squier P-Bass, take it or leave it, you can have it in black". No idea what Squiers are like now, but this bass will leave my hands on the day I die!
I think you just had Squiers or Squier Affinity series back then. The Affinity version should say 'Affinity' somewhere on the headstock. Those were the cheaper ones and weren't great afaik. The normal Squiers were fine.
@@OttosTheName Mine is an Affinity it seems. Still stand by my original comments - for £189 twenty years ago this bass works so well. After a little research on how to set up a bass guitar (there was no youtube in those days) I didn't feel the need to spend over a grand on a US made bass, couldn't bloody afford it anyway!
Beautiful!
I mainly play guitar and own a Classic Vibe Jazz bass because of the nut spacing (easier for guitar players to use). I never was comfortable with the P Bass until I picked up the CV P-Bass and noticed the nut spacing was almost like my J-Bass, bought it on the spot!!
After 25 years of guitar, I wanted to explore its sibling... and I think it's the right instrument to play with, thanks
nic bic no problem and thank you for the support! You can’t really go wrong with this bass, nice choice! T
Do you think it would be well matched to a Rumble 40 Amp? I play mostly alone, only for fun. Thanks in advance
Absolutely! The latest rumbles are great sounding amps, and being that they’re Fenders, they really play nicely with Fender basses. It’ll sound great, but if you have the little extra, I would move for the 100, especially as that 1x12 speaker is just that little fatter and warmer, and the 100w will make the amp feel effortlessly full, even if you’re not using all of the watts. I find bass is all about headroom when it comes to tone! T
I’m a guitarist/pianist, but when I picked up this bass in my local shop it instantly clicked. I had played basses a few times before but none felt like this one to me.
On this demo is the amp flat ?
Nice review. This would make a nice project to upgrade the bridge, tuners and pick ups. And even the internal pots.
love this bass, sadly my local Stores never carry it, i'm only interested in that same one in your review, love the brown and black inlay and sounds killer for my needs
I bought this bass in black and I've had it for a month already. Overall, the instrument looks very nice. The neck is perfect and is surprisingly thin, pots feel very nice. However, the zero nut is made of some crap material and the slots are cut a hair too wide for the strings they put on it (surprisingly a set of Daddarios ) - mainly on E-string which creates funny buzz at the headstock. I'll have that replaced by tusq and cut to match the new set of Rotosound RS66 I'll be putting on. Another thing is the bridge, where the E string saddle keeps lowering itself quite significantly after a short time of playing. I was also surprised how much the saddles move around when the bass is played harder. The bridge will get replaced by a Fender hi mass one.
That's the problem with these Squires, you always gotta swap things out to try and make them keepers, money that could have went towards a better made, full size MIM..
It's all down to the amount of money you want to put into the instrument. My squier was 355 euros new with free shipping. A MIM one was exactly double that, and I simply loved the looks of the CV 70s. Now that I've replaced the strings with a set of Rotosounds (I would have done that on any bass regardless), the zero nut issue got fixed. Turned out they put some weird light set of strings on the bass (E was .095") and there is no funny buzz. The Fender Hi mass bridge was 33 euros. I would also have put that on MIM bass.. So I'm 388 euro (400 USD) into the instrument, which IMHO does not require anything else..
Funny thing is, from the amount of MIM Fenders I've tried in the music store, none of them was set up as good as any of the CV (or VM or affinity even) Squiers which were hanging next to those fenders...
Really love that warmer tone, especially when popping on slap. Too bad they don't do them as left-handed !!
Sounds amazing- but if you had to choose between this bass and the classic vibe jaguar bass, which would you choose? I'm torn between them
If I needed to buy a Precision with good tone ASAP, I'd feel totally comfortable getting this.
Absolutely - looks like a P, sounds like a P, cant go wrong! T
Played live and recorded with the black paint job. Great bass!
Is these the stock Strings too ?
Man, excellent review! I'm thinking about buying one of these and your review was very elucidating.
But I had a doubt, in some sites there is the information that the body is made of poplar, not nato. There are different woods being used or may it be a regional issue (I'm in Brasil)? Do you have some toughts on this?
Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! I would still expect the bass to be made of NATO regardless of region as they are all built in Indonesia. I’ve seen many listings posted incorrectly from a variety of stores so it may simply be that they’ve put in some wrong Iformation. There will be a tonal difference between the two woods (if it is indeed poplar), but not as significant as different pickups or fretboard woods. I hope that helps! T
@@TylerSpicer thanks for replying so fast. Interesting issue. I saw that info in the brazilian squier site. This made me think that it may be a legal question, since Brazil has very rigid ambiental laws, but I'm not sure, I'll search for more informations. But assuming it is poplar, what would be the tonal difference between it and nato?
V G definitely could be the case! Poplar will have more low end and a lot of punch. A little less high-mid content. It’s a lot like alder but with a bigger low end. T
@@TylerSpicer nice! Thank you so much!
Did the gotoh tuners drop in without drilling?
Thanks for this excellent review!
Thank you for watching! T
how much of the wood lets be seen the walnut finish? it looks very flat ..BUT I've seen pictures which show a lot of the wood underneath the laquer
excelent review btw!
There’s a reasonable amount of grain that comes through, but you have to look for it IME. Thank you for the kind words! T
Long time guitar player for 20 years. Believe it or not this will be my first bass. Never played bass before but I just bought this and I'm so excited. Any tips on a guitarist learning to play bass? I know it's not all root notes but I'm hoping I can transition fairly quickly.
That’s awesome! Thanks for watching and reaching out! I think my 3 bits of advice would be:
1. Think melodically
2. Play as little as possible to still serve the song (at first)
3. Focus on getting a big tone with right hand finger placement and pick techniques!
T
Just picked this bass up. Mainly use it for punk/metal stuff and it kicks ass!!
I have a 72 fender Bass. It plays fantastic. I would like it to compare it the real thing what would you suggest?
I have this bass I bought it today I have a lot of fender basses and guitars
Hi. What song is playing at 7.45? Thank you
So, between the 60s and 70s classic vibe bass, the 60s version has more low end??
Love the inlays on the neck!
Not me. They belong to the jazz bass imo.
I purchased the exact same bass about 6 months ago. I'd say in general the fit, finish and overall playability (in the end) are excellent. The main thing to note if purchasing one of these is that there are some quality control issue and the setup on mine was absolutely terrible. The action was unacceptably high and the intonation was way off; it took me several days of adjustment to get it playable. One of the solder joints on my output jack was done poorly and the wire completely fell off on stage (what a nightmare), so you might want to take off the pickguard and check that everything is properly soldered before taking it out gigging. I'd say that its a great bass for the money and I love it, but be aware that it might take some work to get it playing right.
Hey Tyler, thanks for the awesome review man! 👏👏👏 I bought this bass and I think with Seymour Duncan Quarterpounds pickups it will be a beast 🎸🔥
The Quarter Pounder is a classic, and a great sound. A very worthy upgrade! Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! T
Hi T. I have this same bass, I really love the sound but sometimes..depending on the song mood..I'm missing low E..or F low end..bass punch or body when playing fingerstyle..any advise? I'm using this bass with a Hartke 350 watts 4x10 really powerful with my musicman
Hey! Double check the break angle on the strings at the bridge and nut and see if it helps! Just push them down slightly behind both. This can sometimes be the answer on its own! T
So on top of pretty aesthetics and short scale I also like the tone too!
This might be my ideal electric bass (electric, because I play acoustics)
I just got back from my local music store, tried this very model out.
There was a Fender American Player right next to it, so i tried them both.
I liked the Squire more! Tone was similar, weights were quite similar. The only real difference was the neck. The Player was a wee bit chunkier, the Squier a bit more J bass like, but not crazy.
Oh and price. Squire at $500, the Player at a little over a grand.
I'm buying the Squier!
I tried out the CV jazz too.. competes closely also.
And i tried out the Affinity series p/j bass too. A bit rougher, but still pretty damn good for $300!
Thank you for this great video. This has the perfect bass tone I would want. Do you know how the vintage modified series compares ? Is this the nato body light ? I have the vintage modified jazz bass but I think I want to sell that and buy this. How would the neck compare ? The 70s jazz bass vintage modifed has a really nice slim neck.
Great playing.
Beautiful bass
hi tyler which has the thinner neck the 60,s or 70,s one as i would prefer it nearer to the jazz neck which i believe is 38 mm at the nut cheers
It’s the 70s! A LOT thinner. Maybe even thinner in feel than a lot of jazzes I’ve played! T
Hi Tyler, great review! How do you think this bass would cope with being tuned down to BEAD?
Thank you! I have my own thoughts on B strings and P pickups. I find that because the poles of a Fender P pickup are quite far forward on the bottom 2 strings, I don’t find that B strings speak with any definition or authority on a P. If you have a jazz bass pickup in the back as well it becomes a different matter, but I find this is the same even with my Sadowsky PJ5 when I solo the P pickup. I also think a thicker neck helps when you’re stringing with a low B, and being that this is quite a slim profile I’m not sure it would be ideal.
That’s not to say it wouldn’t work and you wouldn’t be happy with it, but if I were you, I’d check out a PJ or a Jazz bass for BEAD. That rear pickup is going give you a lot more harmonic content and really make that B string sing.
All just my opinion, and experience and what works for you may be different, but those are just my thoughts! T
I play BEAD on a pbass and it sounds pretty good.
Love the look on this bass, really wished it had alder body
It’s a. Cool tone with the alternative body wood though! Wouldn’t be as bright and midrangy with an alder body! T
Very hard to pick the continuity error 🤔, was it the order of the CDs in the background?
Excellent review, thanks 🙏!
It’s the fact that he’s wearing different clothes
@@arcanehornet Whoosh
Hey Tyler you should do a video comparing this one versus a Player series p bass ;)
Hi I have just purchased one of these basses but have had to send it back twice as it buzzes worse than my jazz bass. Have I just been unlucky
Tyler, could yoy also do the Squier 60's classic vibe? I know you did the Jazz, but maybe you can do the P?
I'm really tempted to get one of those?
Love your vids btw.
Mike C thanks Mike! I did a comparison video with the CV 60s, USA and MIM P - it’s on the front page of my channel in the “all you need To know bass show” section. Have a look there and see if that works for you! If not I’ll see if they’ve still got one at the shop and if they can get it to me. T
@@TylerSpicer oh, excellent! Never noticed!
Thanks. Love the vids.
Mike C you’re not the first to ask, so it may be worth it to do a video of it on its own. Thank you for the kind words and supporting the channel! T
@@TylerSpicer I'll look forward to watching it, if you make it.
I'm more of a guitarist than a bass player. I've started writing songs and want to demo them so that's why I've decided to get a bass. My needs/skill level doesn't really warrant me buying an American Fender, but the Squier seems ideal. Not too costly, looks great and sounds good too. Ideal for my requirements.
Hmm. is it the lighting in the video giving the neck that nice color? as my CV 70s P-bass doesn't have that yellow/orange sexy neck. Its just plain light tan and doesn't look nearly as sleek.
I think it’s purely the amount of coating applied to the neck. Tbh, the more they put on it’s normally as less naturally good - looking piece, so despite the lack of colour on yours, it’s probably a nicer wood! T
Do you have walnut as well? Just browsed on sweetwateers website and noticed that the necks are slightly different on the two basses.
www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PBassCV70BLK--squier-classic-vibe-70s-precision-bass-black
Is it worth upgrading the pickups on this bass for fender alnico Vs?
I would say so! Not necessary, but probably advised! T
Tyler Spicer thanks for the reply. One last question, which one is lighter between the this one and a fender player series? I recently bought the classic vibe, but now im wondering if i should return it for a used player series. Too bad everything is locked down right now.
It sounds killer funky
Might even say this is kinda sounds like a smoother joe dart signature mm tone
Thank you my man! Can't go wrong with a P. T
Nice review. I'm looking to get this bass for metal. I bet it would cut right through the mix. Any opinions on this ?
i need this bass, ill buy it for my birthday
I would love for you to try out osme Vintage V basses. Maybe do a comparison with Squier and Marcus Miller basses...?
Hi! what kind of tweaks and upgrades would you recommend (strings, pickups, etc.) to make it a better instrument and get the most out of it within a reasonable budget? I think I've decided to get this bass :D
Hello! Great choice! It’s a very solid bass as it is, but if you want to upgrade things, first thing should be strings!
Strings are THE biggest part of your sound so try different brands and see what you like.
Next would be the pickup. That again depends on your taste but anything from Nordstrand, Aguilar, Seymour Duncan, dimarzio or even Fender’s custom shop range will be an improvement.
Beyond that I would upgrade the tuners, but really until they break or you’ve upgraded everything else I wouldn’t worry too much.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you need to know anything else! It’s a solid bass as it is so I wouldn’t worry about feeling you *have* to upgrade it! T
Need a jazz in this color
I got the 60s p bass. I find the neck is nice and chunky, 1.685, compared to the 1.5 in width of a jazz bass. I like both p and jazz necks. Sometimes I want a narrow feel and other times a like a wider feel.
I'm torn between the 60s and 70s p bass. Based on your review, what I can hear is the 60s has a more beefy and low sound while the 70s is brighter.. I love the look of the 70s and the maple neck but.... the sound of the 60s. Due to Covid-19 I can't try out any of the bass. This will be my 1st bass..😎 What you you recommend Tyler? Thanks.
Hello! I get asked this question every week, so I will answer this on Tuesday, in video form! Keep your eyes peeled on the channel! T
@@TylerSpicer awesome as always! Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and can't wait for the video!
is the glossy neck sticky? I hate sticky necks and thats the only thing that is currently stopping me from getting this bass.
@Mitch Wild will the neck wood take damage if its not coated with anything or is the glossy finish so thick that there will still be more finish under it?
@Mitch Wild ah okay thank you so much for this tip!
Hy Tyler, since you've tested both 60s and 70s, can you please point out the key differences between this 2 please? Which one do you recommend?
I’m normally a 60s guy when it comes to P Bass spec but in this instance I’d choose the 70s! I think the pickup in the 70s was clearer, I felt the construction was a little better with the binding around the outside of the instrument, and I preferred the neck profile. I also think it looks great! The 60s is still a solid instrument and gets a lot of love on the comparison video (which by the sounds of it you’ve seen!) but I would go for the Vintera, or Original for a 60s style and feel, as well as better pickups. So out of those two, the 70s CV. 👌🏻 T
@@TylerSpicer great, thanks for the trustable feedback! Just ordered it, now waiting for to to arrive.
Razvan Deac amazing! Enjoy! Let me know how you get on with it! T
What kind of strings?
Theyre stock strings that are listed on the factory specs! T
Hi Tyler, great review as always. I was looking at this bass specifically because it's shamefully sexy and so cheap, honestly i don't know about one single fender bass that looks as good. One thing you said that kind of worries me; does it lack bottom end? You think this bass suits funk? I have a mustang P/J and was looking at full scales specifically for the low end. Do you think this would be a downgrade?
Thanks!
Thank you for the kind words and support! It’s a great looking bass for sure. I should probably clarify on the low end comment!
Solo’d and in a sparse mix, in comparison to alder or ash, there isn’t as much fundamental. However, in the mix I think it sounds great - it’s funny how sometimes what I hear in the room doesn’t come across in the same way when listening back to the recording. I think in the context of funk this bass will sound good and sit sweetly on top of the kick drum.
I personally love a sound with quite a lot of low end, hence it being one of the things I noticed most immediately.
If I’m honest, I do think that the P pickup on the PJ mustang does share a similarity to this bass in the midrange. They are different, but more similar than say a Rosewood+Alder P. Perhaps most significantly between the 2 is the feel, I find I play a mustang very differently to a P just based on what the dimensions facilitate.
Let me know if that helps! T
Thanks for the answer!
Yeah, so my problem, having started on the mustang, is that i use my pinky on the 5th fret and don't change positions enough. I'll soon be switching to upright because i just dig the sound loads more, but will still be playing e-bass. The thing with the p/j mustang is that i learn the technique the wrong way and am worried i'll have to re adjust quite heavily for a full scale or upright.
That's why i was looking for a cheap quality p-bass, to have an electric to complement the upright.
Other than my personal technique issue with it i don't have a single bad thing to say about the mustang p/j except for maybe the lack of power in the sound of the first few frets on the E string.
t omate O soop upright is an entirely different technique so I wouldn’t consider them the same at all. As a doubler (I’ve played both for a few years now) I can recommend playing the more traditional left hand technique of 1st finger, 2nd finger and 3+4th fingers used together as the best way to play in tune. Generally it’s difficult to reproduce a good and in tune tone using the pinky on its own (and more difficult depending on your action).
In truth you’re going to have to learn a new technique no matter what, but it will be worth putting the hours in. I don’t think using the pinky on the fifth fret is in itself a problem - but it’s definitely unusual to see, especially when there’s choice to use an open string on the bottom 3 strings. T
@@ThaaaFunk I also play a Mustang at gigs. I have to practice on a long-scale bass so I'll finger the songs correctly.
Great Review , but would you recommend this for a Motown vibe if used with flat wound strings?? Not trusting the sales people at Guitar Center lol
Larson Abilla haha! I don’t blame you! If you want that kinda tone, I’d go for the classic vibe 60s precision bass. That’ll give you the right tone with flats for that motown vibe 👌🏻 La Bella Deep Talkin flats if you want the full on motown sound and string, but they are very tense and quite hard work. If not any flat will get you in the ball park and very close! T
@@TylerSpicer Thanks Tyler! I'll go check it out. Much appreciated and have a good one!
Another great review! It might be better if you adjust the eq slightly for when playing with a pick.
Nice review Tyler, I'm thinking of buying a classic vibe 60's but after watching your review I'm kind of undecided. On your opinion you prefer the 70's over the 60's? What are the differences in tone? Greetings from Spain
Brian Fanjul Alonso I did prefer the 70s over the 60s yes - which is unusual for me! I think the 70s had a little more definition, and the binding around the edge was a nice feature. On the 60s the edges of the fretboard weren’t particularly well done, and that really took away from what was otherwise a good bass. Overall this 70s just felt a little higher quality. T
@@TylerSpicer Thanks for your time. Keep up the good work.
Hi, Tyler! First of all I really enjoy your channel. Your content is so informative. Thank you and keep up the good work!
Last week I was torn between this 70's Squier and a 50's Vintera precision. I went home with the Vintera, but the Classic Vibe keeps hunting me. I liked the focused midrange sound, but I read multiple times that they overall quality is less than the older Chinese made ones (tuners etc). Do you think I should go for a new made CV or wait for an older Chinese one to cross my path. I know I'm crazy, but I'm a sucker for P-basses. I really like the Vintera though. What do you think of them? Greetings from Belgium!
Having tried both I would say the vintera is the better bass. It seems to just have more "mojo" to me. Could be the big chunky neck, but I feel it just felt really good and like a life long instrument.
Squiers are really good basses and I can see myself getting one of these, though one day I think I'll upgrade. I'm in new Zealand and I can't get one of the vinteras here otherwise I'd be after one.
what song is this its so funky.
SadBoiFrxzty thank you! It’s just a little loop I came up with. It’s the same with all my videos, I just make up a little groove before each to try and keep it fresh! T
In my country it only comes the jazz bass version :( it's so cool that bass
I bought a black color one. Only because there are only 2 color available here in ksa 😑 i need that 1.
To be fair, the difference isn’t that great in person, it’s very dark brown which comes across as not dissimilar to black! T
good demo.
Wich do u think is better for a beginner: precision or jazz? I play rock, alternative rock and some metal.
Depends on your taste in tone, but typically a Jazz will have a smaller neck that's easier to get around. I started on jazz basses, but once I played a P, the tone grabbed me. I still play a jazz when needed, but I'm a P or PJ man at heart. For any of those genres the Fender tone no matter which bass will do the job! T
How'd you manage to get one in the walnut finish? At least near me (in the states) the release has been consistently pushed back for months now!
Hey man! If I’m honest - I’m not sure 😂 They will have just been offered it, the Guitar Centre deals with a load of Fender stock and has a great relationship with the reps so getting things in is pretty easy. I’m sure they could get this one shipped across for you? T
Hey Tyler. First of all, thanks for the nice viddy! I’m looking for a bass for my little home studio and to record my demo songs with. I’m studying songwriting and need a decent bass for my demo’s. I play guitar and this will be my first bass.. would you recommend this one? My main genre is indie/dreampop. Would it fit this style?
No problem at all! Thank you for watching! Definitely, the P is a classic in those styles and the 70s Squier has the thinnest neck of any P I’ve played, so you’re likely gonna be comfortable enough moving from guitar. The only other bass I’d maybe suggest is the 60s CV Mustang (or any Mustang). Again gonna sound great in that style with the added benefit of being a little smaller, so more guitar sized, and with an even smaller neck. I think you’ll find in general that the P and Mustang will fit into your songwriting mixes quickest and with the least tweaking - they might not stand out as much but will likely support the song better. Don’t forget to use the tone control if you want more bottom end and less attack and midrange from either; they can sound a bit aggressive in a sparse mix or arrangement, but that toe control will taper it right back and make it sit beautifully. I’m normally grabbing a bass with a P pickup for any of my demos, so I’d say you can’t go wrong! T
Tyler Spicer hey man, thanks for your nice answer! Have a nice one ✌🏻
It's have a good balance?
Yeah, pretty good balance! It’s body heavy due to the neck being so thin, definitely preferable to neck heavy! T
Forgive my English. I made a mistake. The correct one would be "does it have a good balance?". I was a hurry. I don't like to use translator. 🤭
Hi Tyler question here, that Alnico any buzz from it or silent ?
I recall at least one reviewer saying their was a buzz
So if you really had to choose, would you take the 60’s or 70’s P-Bass?
I have a video covering that exact topic coming out today! Keep an eye out and give it a watch! T
I did one on the 2015, 2019 classic vibe 60s and bullet tele, strats....😃😃😃😃