Fender Precision Bass 1978 Manual

Fender Precision Bass 1978 Guitar manual cover
Pages 8
Year 1978
Language(s)
English en

Fender Precision Bass 1978 Guitar Specification

The Fender Precision Bass 1978 is a classic electric bass guitar known for its robust build quality and iconic sound. This model features a solid, contoured alder body that provides a balanced tonal foundation with pronounced mid-range frequencies. The neck is made from maple, offering durability and a bright, snappy tone, and is bolted onto the body to enhance sustain. It sports a rosewood or maple fingerboard, depending on the specific variant, featuring 20 frets with a standard 34-inch scale length, a configuration that ensures comfortable playability and precise intonation.

The 1978 Precision Bass is equipped with a split single-coil pickup, a hallmark of the model, which delivers a thick, punchy sound that excels in both studio and live settings. The pickup is controlled via a single volume and a single tone knob, providing straightforward yet versatile tonal adjustments. Hardware components include a four-saddle bridge that offers stability and precise tuning, along with open-gear tuning machines that enhance string alignment and retention.

With its vintage aesthetics, the 1978 Precision Bass is characterized by a variety of finishes, including sunburst, black, and natural, often complemented by a three-ply pickguard, contributing to its timeless appeal. This bass is renowned for its reliability and enduring popularity among musicians across genres, making it a sought-after instrument for its classic Fender craftsmanship and distinctive sound signature. The Fender Precision Bass 1978 continues to be celebrated for its contribution to the evolution of bass guitar music, embodying the quintessential qualities that have kept it relevant for decades.

Fender Precision Bass 1978 Guitar F.A.Q.

What are the ideal string gauges for a 1978 Fender Precision Bass?

The ideal string gauges for a 1978 Fender Precision Bass typically range from .045 to .105. However, personal preference and playing style can influence the choice.

How can I reduce hum and noise from my Fender Precision Bass 1978?

To reduce hum and noise, ensure proper grounding, use quality cables, and check for shielding in the control cavity. Adjusting pickup height and using noise-cancelling pickups can also help.

What is the recommended neck relief for a 1978 Fender Precision Bass?

The recommended neck relief for a 1978 Fender Precision Bass is typically around 0.010" at the 7th fret when pressing down the first and last fret. Adjust the truss rod to achieve this relief.

How do I adjust the action on my Fender Precision Bass from 1978?

To adjust the action, use the saddle height screws on the bridge to raise or lower the strings. Ensure that the neck relief and intonation are set correctly before adjusting the action.

Why does my 1978 Fender Precision Bass have dead spots on the neck?

Dead spots are common on bass guitars and occur due to the resonant frequencies of the neck. To mitigate this, try using a Fat Finger clamp, change string types, or adjust the neck tension slightly.

What maintenance tips should I follow for my Fender Precision Bass 1978?

Regularly clean the body and fretboard, change strings as needed, check and adjust the neck relief, and ensure hardware is secure. Apply lemon oil on the fretboard to prevent drying if it’s rosewood.

How do I properly intonate my 1978 Fender Precision Bass?

To intonate your bass, use a tuner and adjust the saddle position until the 12th fret note matches the harmonic at the 12th fret for each string. Ensure the neck is straight before starting.

What should I do if the tuning pegs are stiff on my Fender Precision Bass 1978?

If the tuning pegs are stiff, try lubricating them with a small amount of machine oil. If that doesn’t help, check for any mechanical issues or consider replacing the tuning machines.

How can I enhance the tone of my 1978 Fender Precision Bass?

To enhance the tone, consider upgrading the pickups, using high-quality strings, adjusting the pickup height, and experimenting with different tone settings on your amplifier.

What type of pickups were originally installed in the 1978 Fender Precision Bass?

The 1978 Fender Precision Bass typically came with single-coil split pickups, known for their warm and punchy sound characteristic of the Precision Bass line.