Fender Japan JBR-80M

Description

Fender Japan JBR-80M

Why is it special?

This is a rare Fender Japan exclusive model produced at the renowned Fujigen factory, the JBR-80M. Offering a unique blend of distinctly modern minimalist aesthetics, vintage Jazz bass charm, and great tone, the JBR was a high end bass for its time and does not look out of place compared to modern boutique jazz bass builds. It features all active electronics with gold label Fender Hotrod jazz pickups, and contoured neck heel to offer extended access to the highest frets. The JBR series is a hidden gem and has become one of the favorites in the shop.

Condition

This bass is in Very Good condition, with only a few minor blemishes that do not impact playability or functionality. There are minor scratch marks and small dents scattered on the body and neck. The most notable dents on the body back and neck are pictured in the photos. There are finish cracks on either side of the neck pocket that appear to be in the finish only. The frets are in great condition with plenty of life left. The truss rod is in good working order with adjustability in both directions. The neck is straight and in good condition. The electronics cavity cover shows signs of surface weathering, but this has not affected the integrity of the cover. The electronics function properly and do not appear to have been modified. Overall, great player’s condition instrument considering its age.

Overview

The serial number of this instrument dates to 1988-1988 with an “G” series serial number, but there was no “JBR” in the catalog we can find at that time. The JBR was added to the lineup in 1990 but appeared as the more commonly found JBR-800, offered under the “Pro-Feel” line. This bass has JBR-80M written in the neck pocket.

The JBR-80M features an ash body, maple neck, and maple fingerboard, offering a brighter, more articulate tone than its rosewood fingerboard counterpart. The vintage natural finish has aged nicely on the body and neck, showcasing the pleasing grain of the ash body and well-constructed all-maple neck. The bridge is a unique top-loader design with heavy-duty saddles, model FBT-4C. The neck is a comfortable and quick medium depth U-shape. The headstock features vintage-style Fender tuners with full-size baseplates and clover buttons, exhibiting nicely even surface patina. This bass weighs 8.8 pounds and feels well balanced in use.

The original Fender gig bag is included but does not offer much protection. A Fender FB610 gig bag will also be included to ensure the bass is better protected in normal use.

Electronics and Tone

Just like the JBR-80R, the 80M provides interesting midrange harmonic complexity, lovely growl, and distinctly “active” authoritative voice, providing a broad tonal palate that can be sculpted to fit most genres or musical needs. The bass control offers good punch and depth, and the treble control adds smooth definition without getting brittle or harsh. All electronics function as intended. EMG-style Fender Hotrod 7J covered pickups with slightly hotter output are utilized and an active preamp circuit. Controls are volume, pickup balance, bass EQ, treble EQ. Pickup balance and EQ all feature center detent.

Ask any questions you may have prior to purchase; we will be happy to provide any additional details available.  To make your purchase experience as enjoyable as possible, Prof. Nigel’s never sells any instruments we wouldn’t be proud to own. A great deal of effort and care are put into selection, cleaning, setup, photography, description, packing, and shipping every instrument. We want to ensure you receive the instrument as expected, ready to enjoy for years to come. Please allow 2-3 days for packing and shipping after placing an order.

Specifications
Nut width: 1.5 in / 39.0mm
String pitch: 19.0mm
Scale: 34 inch
Year of manufacture: 1987-1988
Country of manufacture: Japan
Serial number: #G038216
Weight: 8.8 lbs / 4 kg
Fret: 70% remaining
Truss rod: Good working condition