Squier CV Act 70s J Bass V MN PPG OCT

Squier's new active five string Classic Vibe basses are a bit of a contradiction, as no such instrument existed at the time. Putting that to one side, they're beautiful instruments, with options of a red stain with a rosewood neck, or turquoise with a maple neck, which I bought.

The overall build quality is good, and small details like neck binding and neck inlays add to the retro vibe. The bridge is 'high mass' but it's an unknown brand, not a Fender one. The plate is too deep, meaning that the action can't be lowered far enough on the G string. Also, the pole pieces in the pickups don't align well with the B and G strings. Playing wise, in passive mode it sounds clean and warm, and the active circuit allows you to add a little more bass or treble. These are relatively subtle, adding in brightness or richness, rather than extremes of either. There's no mid boost or cut, which would have been a welcome feature.

My biggest gripe is the battery access cover - you need a screwdriver to take it off, but mine was so well stuck in the aperture that I had to improvise with some gaffa tape to get it out...

This small gripe aside, it's a beautiful bass that sounds good, and for just shy of £500 it's great value.