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The Fender Vintera II ’60s Bass VI in stunning Lake Placid Blue resurrects one of the most distinctive instruments in Fender’s storied history. This remarkable recreation captures the essence of the original Bass VI—a unique hybrid that blurs the boundaries between guitar and bass—while incorporating refinements that enhance playability and reliability for modern musicians.

First introduced in 1961, the Bass VI occupied a fascinating middle ground in the Fender lineup with its six-string configuration, guitar-like controls, and 30″ scale length that split the difference between a standard guitar (25.5″) and bass (34″). This distinctive combination created an instrument that could function as a traditional bass, offer guitar-like chord voicings, or deliver atmospheric baritone textures—making it a versatile tool for creative musicians.

The Vintera II version faithfully reproduces the classic features that defined the original ’60s model: the offset body shape crafted from resonant alder, the striking chrome control plate housing simple master volume and tone controls, and the distinctive trio of on/off switches for individual pickup selection. The signature Lake Placid Blue finish—a metallic blue with subtle silver sparkle—perfectly complements the 3-ply parchment pickguard and nickel hardware for an authentic vintage aesthetic.

At the heart of this instrument are three vintage-style early-’60s single-coil pickups specifically voiced for the Bass VI’s unique tonal character. These pickups deliver everything from deep, punchy bass tones to shimmering, articulate highs, especially when combined using the individual pickup switches. The additional “strangle switch” provides a bass cut that further enhances tonal versatility, allowing for guitar-like clarity when needed.

The maple neck features a comfortable mid-’60s “C” profile that gradually thickens toward the 12th fret, providing an intuitive feel for both bass techniques and guitar-style playing. The 7.25″ radius slab rosewood fingerboard with vintage-tall frets offers authentic ’60s playability with just enough height for comfortable bending and vibrato techniques. The vintage-style floating tremolo completes the package, enabling everything from subtle wobble effects to dramatic dives.

Guitar Specifications

The Bass VI Legacy

The Fender Bass VI occupies a unique position in the company’s history as a genuine crossover instrument. Introduced in 1961 as a response to Danelectro’s six-string bass, the Bass VI provided guitarists with a familiar format to transition to bass playing while offering extended low-end capability beyond a standard guitar.

While initially conceived as a bass alternative, creative musicians quickly discovered the Bass VI’s potential beyond traditional bass roles. The instrument found favor with innovative players in the 1960s, including session musicians in The Wrecking Crew and notable artists like The Beatles (used on albums including Revolver and Abbey Road). After its initial production run ended in 1975, the Bass VI experienced a resurgence in alternative and experimental music during the 1990s and beyond, with artists like Robert Smith of The Cure using it to create atmospheric textures.

The Vintera II ’60s Bass VI captures the essence of this storied instrument, faithfully reproducing the details that made the original models special while incorporating subtle refinements for modern players.

Key Features Explained

• Unique 30″ Scale Length: The middle ground between guitar and bass creates a distinctive playing feel and tonal character that can’t be achieved with standard instruments
• Versatile Pickup Switching: The individual on/off switches for each pickup allow for seven different pickup combinations, far exceeding the options available with a standard selector switch
• “Strangle” Switch: This bass-cut switch tightens the low end for more guitar-like tones, expanding the instrument’s tonal palette
• Vintage-Style Floating Tremolo: Enables expressive vibrato effects from subtle shimmer to dramatic dives, adding another dimension to the Bass VI’s sonic capabilities
• Slab Rosewood Fingerboard: The thicker rosewood fingerboard (compared to veneer) provides warmth and depth to the tone while offering an authentic vintage feel

Perfect For:

The Fender Vintera II ’60s Bass VI excels across multiple musical contexts:

• Experimental Musicians: The unique scale length and configuration make it ideal for creative players looking to explore sounds beyond conventional instruments
• Recording Artists: The versatile tonal palette can fill multiple roles in the studio, from traditional bass parts to atmospheric textures
• Post-Rock and Ambient Players: The combination of low-end depth and guitar-like articulation creates stunning ambient soundscapes, especially with effects
• Guitarists Exploring Bass Territory: The familiar six-string format and guitar-like neck provide an accessible entry point for guitarists looking to add bass to their toolkit
• Baritone Guitar Applications: The Bass VI excels at creating moody, low-register melodies and chord voicings in styles from country to modern rock

Unlike most modern basses or baritone guitars that occupy similar sonic territory, the Bass VI’s distinctive switching system, tremolo arm, and specific scale length create a truly unique instrument that stands apart from conventional categories. For creative musicians seeking to expand their tonal palette, the Vintera II ’60s Bass VI offers an authentic recreation of one of Fender’s most fascinating designs.