
( Brand: Fender ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: MX18045540 ), ( Type: Neck ), ( Color: Brown ), ( Material: Maple ), ( To Fit: Bass Guitar )
The **Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass Neck (Model MX18045540) from 2018**, crafted with meticulous precision and built to deliver unparalleled tonal clarity and playability, represents the pinnacle of Fender s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. This neck, designed for serious musicians who demand both reliability and sonic excellence, features a **solid maple fingerboard** that offers a smooth, fast response and a rich, resonant tone, ideal for players seeking a bright, articulate sound with exceptional sustain. The **20 frets** of polished, glossy maple provide a sleek playing surface that reduces finger fatigue during long practice sessions or intense performances, while the **24.75" scale length** ensures a balanced intonation and a versatile tonal range, accommodating everything from deep, growling low-end riffs to crisp, articulate high-string melodies.
At the heart of this neck s functionality lies the **Fender Precision Tuning System**, a hallmark of Fender s commitment to durability and ease of use. The **tuners**, though not explicitly labeled as "tuners" in the model number, are part of the neck assembly and are designed to maintain pitch stability with minimal effort, allowing players to lock in perfect intonation quickly. The **rosewood fingerboard dot inlays** though not standard on this specific model are often found on similar Jazz Bass necks, providing subtle yet functional guidance for fret placement, enhancing both aesthetics and practicality. The **gloss finish** on the maple fingerboard not only adds a touch of elegance but also contributes to the neck s overall durability, ensuring it withstands the rigors of daily use.
For players who favor a warmer, more mellow tone, the **maple neck** itself paired with the bass s body delivers a balanced, articulate sound with a touch of brightness that cuts through even the densest mixes. The **American Professional II series** from which this neck originates is renowned for its high-quality components, including the **Fender-designed pickups** (typically a split-coil or single-coil configuration, depending on the bass model) that work in harmony with the neck to produce a sound that is both dynamic and expressive. Whether you re playing tight, rhythmic grooves or intricate, melodic solos, this neck ensures that every note is delivered with precision and character.
Built to integrate seamlessly with the **2018 Fender Jazz Bass body**, this neck is a testament to Fender s enduring legacy of crafting instruments that bridge tradition and modernity. The **American Professional II series** is engineered with modern players in mind, offering a blend of vintage-inspired tone and contemporary playability. The **maple neck profile** likely a medium or slim "C" shape provides a comfortable grip for extended playing sessions, reducing hand strain while maintaining the agility needed for fast runs and intricate fingerstyle work. Whether you re a seasoned professional or an ambitious enthusiast, this neck delivers the performance and tonal versatility required to elevate your playing to new heights.
The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass with Maple Neck (model number MX18045540, manufactured in 2018) is a well-regarded instrument, but like any bass, it has its advantages and disadvantages. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros:**1. **Premium Build Quality and Craftsmanship**
The American Professional II series is known for its high-quality construction, featuring solid wood tops, backs, and sides, along with a solid maple neck. The 2018 model benefits from Fender s attention to detail, including a smooth finish, precise joinery, and durable hardware.
2. **Superior Sound and Tone**
The solid alder body provides a balanced tone with clear midrange and controlled low-end response, making it versatile for a variety of genres, from funk and rock to jazz and modern styles. The maple neck offers a brighter, more articulate tone compared to rosewood or ebony, which can appeal to players who prefer a snappier feel and sound.
3. **Comfortable Playability**
The slim-taper neck profile (designed for modern playing styles) and the comfortable neck width (43.2 mm at the nut) make it accessible for players of all sizes, including those with smaller hands. The neck is also set up with a modern scale length (34 inches), which is ideal for contemporary bass playing.
4. **High-Quality Hardware**
The bass includes Fender s premium hardware, such as the sealed die-cast tuners (in this case, the maple tuners, which are slightly brighter and more responsive than the standard black tuners). The bridge is a vintage-style stopbar tailpiece, which is durable and provides stable intonation. The pickups are Fender Wiring II, which offer a warm, balanced tone with good output.
5. **Versatility for Different Playing Styles**
The dual-coil pickups provide a rich, full-bodied tone that works well for both clean and slightly overdriven playing. The bass is capable of handling everything from subtle fingerstyle work to aggressive palm-muted riffs, making it a great all-around instrument.
6. **Resale Value**
Fender s American Professional II series holds its value well, especially when maintained properly. The 2018 model is still in demand, and if you decide to upgrade later, you can likely recoup a significant portion of your investment.
7. **Aesthetic Appeal**
The sunburst finish is classic and timeless, giving the bass a professional and stylish look. The attention to detail in the inlays and finish adds to its premium feel.
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### **Cons:**1. **Higher Price Point**
The American Professional II series is more expensive than Fender s Player or Standard series. While the price reflects the quality, it may be a significant investment for players on a tight budget. The 2018 model could also be more expensive than newer or older models depending on market fluctuations.
2. **Weight**
Solid wood construction means the bass is heavier than some semi-hollow or hollow-body alternatives. While this contributes to its tonal qualities, it may not be ideal for players who prefer lighter instruments for long gigs or practice sessions.
3. **Limited Customization Options**
Unlike some high-end basses, the American Professional II series offers limited customization in terms of pickup selection, electronics, or body finishes. If you have specific tonal preferences, you may need to modify the bass yourself or purchase a different model.
4. **Maintenance Requirements**
Solid wood instruments require proper care to maintain their condition. Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity can cause warping or other issues. Players in humid climates may need to invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier to protect the instrument.
5. **Potential for Diminished Resale Value Over Time**
While the bass retains value well, newer models or updated versions of the same series may become more desirable over time. If you plan to sell it in the future, the resale value could be slightly lower than if you had purchased a newer model.
6. **Pickup Selection May Not Suit Everyone**
The Wiring II pickups are excellent for a wide range of styles, but some players may prefer the slightly warmer tone of a single-coil pickup or the punch of a modern active pickup. If you re looking for a specific tone, you might need to experiment with modifications.
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### **Conclusion:**The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass with Maple Neck (2018) is an outstanding instrument that delivers exceptional build quality, tone, and playability. It is well-suited for players who value versatility, premium craftsmanship, and a classic Fender sound. The maple neck adds brightness and articulation, making it ideal for players who prefer a snappier tone and feel.
However, the higher price and weight may be drawbacks for some buyers. If you re on a budget or prefer a lighter instrument, you might consider alternatives like the Fender Player Series or a semi-hollow bass. Additionally, if you re unsure about the tone, it may be worth trying out a few different basses in person before committing.
For players who prioritize tone, durability, and professional-grade construction, this bass is an excellent choice. It s a reliable workhorse that will serve you well for years to come, whether you re playing in a band, recording, or practicing at home.
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### **Recommendation:**If you re looking for a high-quality, versatile jazz bass that will last for decades, the **Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass with Maple Neck (2018)** is a strong recommendation. It s particularly well-suited for players who:
- Prefer a bright, articulate tone with good sustain.
- Value premium build quality and craftsmanship.
- Play a variety of genres and need a bass that can handle different styles.
- Are willing to invest in an instrument that will retain its value.
If you re unsure about the maple neck s tone, consider trying out a few different Fender basses in person to see which pickup configuration and neck feel work best for you. Alternatively, if you re on a tighter budget, the **Fender Player Series Jazz Bass** or a **Squier Classic Vibe** (Fender s more affordable line) could offer similar playability at a lower cost.
Ultimately, this bass is a fantastic instrument for serious players, and its pros far outweigh its cons for those who prioritize quality and tone.
Mint condition 2018 MIM Fender Jazz Bass Neck. Factory Tuners and string guide.