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1989 Fender Precision Plus - $1,300 (Midlothian)
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Introduced in 1989, the Precision Plus was Fender’s first high-production U.S.-made P-Bass to incorporate active-style refinements while keeping the soul of a classic. It marked a bold moment for the company – retooling its flagship bass with Lace Sensor pickups, modern wiring, and top-shelf appointments, all without losing sight of Leo’s original vision. These basses were crafted in Corona during a time of significant reinvestment in quality, after Fender’s CBS-era hangover had fully worn off. Today, the Precision Plus occupies a fascinating niche – rare enough to intrigue collectors, yet modern enough to gig hard without hesitation.
This 1989 example is all original, including its factory Lace Sensor P/J pickup set – a quiet revolution in Fender pickup design. Unlike traditional single-coils, Lace Sensors use a unique magnetic field and shielding system to reduce 60-cycle hum and increase sustain, clarity, and dynamic response. The Precision-style pickup delivers tight, midrange-focused punch without the typical fuzziness, while the Jazz pickup brings articulate snap and shimmer – perfect for balancing fingerstyle warmth with slap-ready brightness.
Controls include a master volume, blend knob for dialing between pickups, and Fender’s TBX (Treble Bass Expander) tone circuit. The TBX operates like a standard tone control from 0–5, rolling off highs. But from 5–10, it acts like a passive EQ boost, opening up more top-end sparkle and low-end depth – a handy tool for shaping tone without stomping on a pedal.
The alder body weighs in at a comfortable 9.5 lbs, finished in Olympic White with tasteful checking and natural age. The maple neck features a skunk stripe, 22 frets, dot inlays, and a fast-playing modern-C profile. Hardware includes original Schaller Elite tuners and bridge, with a note that one bridge string lock is slightly bent but functional. It ships in its original hardshell case, fully set up and ready to go.
Very good, all original condition, "set up and ready to play. One of the bridge string locks is a little bent - since they are difficult to find, I decided to leave it as is." Includes original hardshell case.