Squier Affinity PJ Bass: Review, Specs, & More

The Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ is a popular choice for beginner bassists and experienced players alike. It offers a classic Fender tone and feel at an affordable price point. In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into the features, specifications, pros, and cons of this instrument to help you decide if it's the right bass for you.

What is the Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ?

The Squier Affinity Series is Fender's entry-level line of instruments, designed to provide affordable options for beginners without sacrificing quality. The Precision Bass PJ model combines the iconic P-Bass split-coil pickup in the middle position with a J-Bass single-coil pickup in the bridge position, offering a versatile range of tones. — Dow Futures Today: Market Insights & Trading Tips

Key Features and Specifications

• Body: Poplar
• Neck: Maple, "C" Shape
• Fingerboard: Maple or Indian Laurel
• Pickups: P-Bass Split Single-Coil (Middle), J-Bass Single-Coil (Bridge)
• Controls: Volume 1. (Middle Pickup), Volume 2. (Bridge Pickup), Master Tone
• Bridge: 4-Saddle Standard
• Hardware: Chrome
• Scale Length: 34" (864 mm)
• Nut Width: 1.625" (41.3 mm)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable Price: One of the most budget-friendly options for a P-Bass with J-Bass pickup configuration.
• Versatile Tone: The PJ pickup configuration allows for a wide range of tones, suitable for various musical styles.
• Classic Fender Design: Retains the iconic P-Bass body shape and headstock design.
• Comfortable Neck: The "C" shape neck is comfortable for most players, making it easy to play for extended periods.
• Good for Beginners: An excellent starting point for learning bass guitar due to its playability and affordability.

Cons:

• Lower Quality Components: While decent for the price, the hardware and electronics are not as high-quality as those found on more expensive basses.
• Potential for Upgrades: Some players may eventually want to upgrade the pickups, bridge, or tuners for improved performance.
• Finish Imperfections: Minor cosmetic flaws may be present in some units due to the lower price point.

Tone and Sound Quality

The Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ offers a versatile tonal palette thanks to its PJ pickup configuration. The P-Bass pickup provides a thick, punchy tone that's perfect for rock, blues, and funk, while the J-Bass pickup adds a brighter, more articulate sound that's great for jazz, pop, and more modern styles. — Pluribus: Release Date, Updates & Info

Playability and Comfort

The "C" shape neck is comfortable and easy to play, making it a good choice for beginners. The 34" scale length is standard for bass guitars and provides a good balance between comfort and string tension. The bass is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for long practice sessions or gigs.

Who is This Bass For?

The Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ is an excellent choice for:

• Beginner bassists looking for an affordable and versatile instrument.
• Experienced players who want a backup bass or a project bass for modifications.
• Anyone who wants a classic P-Bass tone with added J-Bass versatility.

Alternatives to Consider

• Yamaha TRBX174: A similarly priced bass with a versatile sound and comfortable playability.
• Ibanez Talman Bass: A lightweight and comfortable bass with a retro aesthetic.
• Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4: A budget-friendly version of the iconic StingRay bass.

Final Verdict

The Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ is a fantastic value for the money. It offers a versatile tone, comfortable playability, and classic Fender design at an affordable price. While it may not have the high-end components of more expensive basses, it's an excellent option for beginners and experienced players alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between a P-Bass and a J-Bass? A: The P-Bass (Precision Bass) has a split-coil pickup that delivers a thick, punchy tone, while the J-Bass (Jazz Bass) has two single-coil pickups that offer a brighter, more articulate sound. The P-Bass is often used in rock and blues, while the J-Bass is popular in jazz and funk. — Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT For Sale: Find Yours Now

Q: Is the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ good for beginners? A: Yes, the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ is an excellent choice for beginners due to its affordable price, comfortable playability, and versatile tone.

Q: What kind of music is the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ good for? A: The Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ is suitable for a wide range of musical styles, including rock, blues, funk, jazz, pop, and more, thanks to its PJ pickup configuration.

Q: What are some common upgrades for the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ? A: Common upgrades include replacing the pickups, bridge, tuners, and electronics for improved performance and tone.

Q: How does the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ compare to the Fender Player Series Precision Bass? A: The Fender Player Series Precision Bass is a higher-end instrument with better quality components, construction, and overall performance. However, it also comes at a higher price point. The Squier Affinity Series offers a more affordable option with decent quality for the price.

Conclusion

The Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ is a versatile and affordable bass that's perfect for beginners and experienced players alike. Its classic Fender tone and comfortable playability make it a great choice for a wide range of musical styles. If you're looking for a budget-friendly bass that doesn't compromise on quality, the Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ is definitely worth considering.