I was undecided for a long time about what kind of bass I should buy. It was clear that it should be a classic. On the list were a Fender Jazz Bass, a Fender Precision or a MusicMan Stingray. After a lot of deliberation, I decided on the Fender Mustang Bass from the American Performer series. So far I haven’t regretted the decision. On the other hand, I can always buy a Precision or Jazz Bass.

Exterior and electronics

The Fender Mustang Bass is really cute. The workmanship is impeccable. There are no noticeable flaws in the varnish, everything sits where it belongs. The tuners are conically shaped and the shaft is thicker at the top than at the bottom. This allows the string to automatically slide into the right position. In combination with the bridge, which has four string riders and comes as a string through body version, you get a clean intonation. In addition, a long sustain is guaranteed.

The bass comes with a gig bag. However, this gig bag is quite thin, not to say completely without protective function. So if you want to take the bass to the gig, you should either get a case or a well-padded gig bag.

The pots function smoothly and without scratching. It is clear that this bass is made directly in California. There is a volume control for each of the two pickups – both single coils. In addition, there is a tone control that works enormously efficiently. Thus, a very wide range of basic sounds is available.

The neck of the Fender Mustang Bass

The neck of the mustang has a length of 30 inches. The standard length is usually 34 inches. This makes the Mustang one of the so-called short scale basses. The frets are perfectly finished. Nothing disturbs here. The neck has a modern C-shape profile, which gives a pleasant playing feel. The short neck means that I, as a guitarist with small hands, can finally play bass halfway. Whether I can do it is another question, but at least there is no excuse for me.

The sound

I had my reservations about the sound, especially the deep bass. But I was amazed with what a pound the “little one” comes along with. Above all, I love this beautiful “rumble”. For me, a perfect sound.

Specifications Fender Mustang Bass

• Body: Alder
• Halsprofil: Modern C
• Hals Finish: Satin
• Hals: Maple with rosewood fingerboard
• Pickups: 2 x Single Coil (Yosemite® Single-Coil Jazz Bass (Bridge) + Yosemite® Split Single-Coil Mustang® Bass (Middle Position)
• Frets: 19 (Medium Jumbo)
• Colour: 3 Tone Sunburst
• Length: 30 inch
• Hardware: Nickel
• Bridge: String through Body Bridge
• Made in USA

Summary Fender Mustang Bass American Performer

It was the right decision to buy this bass. It can be played wonderfully and also delivers a nice rock sound. If you are looking for a unique sound, you should definitely try the Mustang.

Plus

• Super playability (especially for people with small hands)
• Cool, independent sound
• Excellent craftsmanship

Minus

• Supplied gig bag is rather of inferior quality