ShortScale.org

James wrote:The main difference from a playability point of view is the nut width. The J is much narrower than the P to the point where if you're used to one, changing feels quite awkward at first. I personally prefer the J width, and I think it was designed to make it easier to switch between guitar and bass. Go to a music shop and try both a a J and a P pretending that you're interesting in buying one (play the Fender type). Then when you have an idea how they each play, buy a copy online.

The main difference with a regard to the sound comes from the pickups. The J pickups have a wider range, but the P gets a 'growl' the J can't quite do. Although I love the sound of the P style pickup, a J is probably better for the style you want to play.

If you need any convincing, James Jamerson and Bootsy (in his early days) used Jazz basses.

EddieN wrote:

James wrote:The main difference from a playability point of view is the nut width. The J is much narrower than the P to the point where if you're used to one, changing feels quite awkward at first. I personally prefer the J width, and I think it was designed to make it easier to switch between guitar and bass. Go to a music shop and try both a a J and a P pretending that you're interesting in buying one (play the Fender type). Then when you have an idea how they each play, buy a copy online.

The main difference with a regard to the sound comes from the pickups. The J pickups have a wider range, but the P gets a 'growl' the J can't quite do. Although I love the sound of the P style pickup, a J is probably better for the style you want to play.

If you need any convincing, James Jamerson and Bootsy (in his early days) used Jazz basses.

Excellent post but...uh...

Altho' I've also read somewhere he briefly had a Fender V, there's no mentions ever of him playing Jazz. Just Precisions & double bass. Just sayin' for the record.

More Cowbell wrote:I got this MIM J bass @ guitar center for $249

MaMo wrote:damn, block inlays and everything? Nicely done.

Chorlton wrote:i picked up a cheap epiphone thunderbird. sounds good and and is super comfy to play. looks killer. neck dive can be sorted out be moving the strap lock.

Billy3000 wrote:

MaMo wrote:damn, block inlays and everything? Nicely done.

damn! Is that an all parts neck?

More Cowbell wrote:

Billy3000 wrote:

MaMo wrote:damn, block inlays and everything? Nicely done.

damn! Is that an all parts neck?

No...its the Stock neck, I put the inlays in it. Bass inlays are so easy, its like changing spark plugs on a truck under the hood...you have so much room to use the router. Its the best inlay job I've ever done, its perfect. Ask Arsecake, he played it for our pixies submat.