Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass V. This instrument represents the pinnacle of Fender's advanced design, offering exceptional tone and playability for discerning musicians. This 5-string electric bass features an alder body, a fast Modern D neck profile with a compound-radius maple fingerboard, and powerful Ultra II Noiseless Vintage Jazz Bass pickups with a 3-band active preamp. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your new bass.
Image: Front angled view of the Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass V in Avalanche finish with a maple fingerboard.
Setup
1. Initial Inspection
Upon unboxing your Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass V, carefully inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Ensure all components, including the strings, tuning machines, bridge, and electronics, are securely in place. Your bass comes with a Deluxe Molded Case for protection during transport and storage.
Image: Side view of the Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass V, showing the body contour and neck profile.
2. Tuning
The bass should be tuned to standard E-A-D-G-C (low to high) for a 5-string bass. Use a reliable electronic tuner for accuracy. The tuning machines are located on the headstock.
Image: Front view of the bass headstock, showing the tuning machines and Fender logo.
3. Connecting to an Amplifier
Connect one end of a standard 6.35mm (1/4-inch) instrument cable to the output jack located on the lower bout of the bass body. Connect the other end of the cable to the input of your bass amplifier. Ensure your amplifier is turned off or at a low volume before connecting or disconnecting the cable to prevent sudden loud noises.
Operating the Bass
1. Controls Overview
Your American Ultra II Jazz Bass V features a sophisticated active electronics system with a 3-band EQ for precise tonal shaping. Familiarize yourself with the control layout:
- Master Volume: Controls the overall output level of the bass.
- Pan Pot (Pickup Blend): Blends between the neck and bridge pickups. Turn clockwise for more bridge pickup, counter-clockwise for more neck pickup.
- Treble Control: Boosts or cuts high frequencies.
- Midrange Control: Boosts or cuts mid frequencies.
- Bass Control: Boosts or cuts low frequencies.
- Active/Passive Switch: A push/pull pot on the volume knob allows you to switch between active (with EQ) and passive (volume and blend only) modes. In passive mode, the EQ controls are bypassed.
Image: Close-up view of the bass body, highlighting the control knobs and pickup configuration.
2. Battery for Active Electronics
The active electronics require a 9V battery, located in a compartment on the back of the bass. When the bass is not in use, unplug the instrument cable to conserve battery life. A weak battery can result in distorted sound or no sound at all.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning
Regularly wipe down your bass with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat, oils, and dust. For the body and neck finish, use a guitar-specific polish or cleaner sparingly. For the maple fingerboard, a dry cloth is usually sufficient. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
2. String Replacement
Strings should be replaced periodically, depending on usage, to maintain optimal tone and playability. Replace one string at a time to maintain neck tension. Wind new strings neatly around the tuning posts, ensuring sufficient wraps for stable tuning.
Image: Back view of the bass headstock, showing the tuning machines and serial number.
3. Fretboard Care
The maple fingerboard on your bass has a finish that protects the wood. Clean it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using oils or conditioners typically used for unfinished rosewood or ebony fingerboards, as these can damage the finish.
4. Storage
Store your bass in its Deluxe Molded Case when not in use to protect it from dust, humidity changes, and physical damage. Avoid exposing the instrument to extreme temperatures or rapid temperature fluctuations.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Sound |
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| Buzzing or Hum |
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| Poor Intonation |
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Specifications
- Model Name: American Ultra II Jazz Bass V
- Model Number: AMULIIJBVMNAVL
- Body Material: Select Alder
- Body Finish: Gloss Urethane
- Neck Material: Maple
- Neck Finish: Ultra Satin Urethane with Gloss Urethane Headstock Face
- Neck Shape: Modern D
- Fingerboard Material: Maple
- Fingerboard Radius: 10" to 14" Compound Radius (254 mm to 355.6 mm)
- Number of Frets: 21
- Fret Size: Medium Jumbo
- Nut Material: Bone
- Nut Width: 1.875" (47.6 mm)
- Pickups: Ultra II Noiseless Vintage Jazz Bass (Neck and Bridge)
- Controls: Master Volume, Pan Pot (Pickup Blend), Treble Boost/Cut, Midrange Boost/Cut, Bass Boost/Cut, Active/Passive Mini Toggle (Push/Pull Volume for Active/Passive)
- Bridge: 5-Saddle HiMass Vintage (Strings-Through-Body or Top-Load)
- Tuning Machines: Fender "F" Light-Weight Vintage-Paddle Keys with Tapered Shafts
- Hardware Finish: Nickel/Chrome
- Pickguard: 1-Ply Gold Anodized Aluminum
- Strings: Fender USA Bass 7250-5M, NPS, (.045-.125 Gauges)
- Case: Deluxe Molded Case
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 52 x 18.5 x 7 inches
- Item Weight: 25.5 pounds
Warranty and Support
Fender instruments are backed by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Fender website.
For technical support, service, or additional product information, please visit the Fender Support website or contact Fender customer service directly.
