Fender Vintera III Early '60s Bass VI – Vintage Sound, Modern Craft

The Fender Vintera III Early '60s Bass VI RW Candy Apple Red brings back the celebrated six-string bass of the early '60s, offering a fusion of rich bass timbres and guitar-like playability. This model presents a full-size alder body, gleaming finish, and a round-laminated rosewood fingerboard, delivering classic tones. For musicians who desire a bridge between standard bass and baritone guitar, the instrument provides both versatility and period-authentic visuals. Attention to vintage-correct hardware and detail immerses players in the iconic era. The Vintera III series caters to those who value both history and reliability.

Standout Features: Classic Design, Modern Playability

Among its highlights is a trio of vintage-style single-coil pickups with independent switches, enabling a spectrum of tones from deep and thumping to clear and articulate. Expressive vibrato and classic muted effects become possible with the floating tremolo tailpiece and dedicated Bass VI mute—elements not found on most basses.

Sonic Foundation: Body and Pickups

At the core sits a robust alder body, known for punchy mids and a defined low end. Three early '60s Bass VI single-coil pickups in SSS configuration deliver both growl and crispness. The polished finish enhances durability and beauty.

• Body Material: Alder — gives resonance, clarity, and durability
• Pickups Configuration: SSS — three single-coils for a wide range of sounds
• Guitarists will appreciate the deep shine and lasting protection provided by the polished body finish.

Player-Focused Neck Design

Comfort is assured with an early '60s "C"-shaped maple neck and a 7.25" (184.1 mm) radius rosewood fingerboard. Vintage-tall frets encourage expressive playing, while a 30" (762 mm) scale length bridges the gap between bass and guitar, making the instrument approachable for both groups.

• Neck Material: Maple — smooth feel and solid stability
• Fingerboard: Round-laminated rosewood — warm, traditional touch
• Scale Length: 762 mm — provides familiar fret patterns and tension

Performance Hardware: Vintage Meets Innovation

Versatile hardware, including a 6-saddle vintage-style bridge, floating tremolo, and the Bass VI mute, enables techniques from surf vibrato to retro-muted lines. A set of individual pickup switches plus a low-cut ("strangle") switch support genres from indie to film music.

• Bridge: Vintage-style floating tremolo — expressive pitch bends and shimmer
• The Bass VI mute system delivers classic staccato effects whenever needed.
• Controls: Master volume, master tone, individual pickup switches, low-cut switch

Who Is It For: The Hybrid Player’s Dream

Multi-instrumentalists, guitarists seeking to try bass, and bassists wanting melodic options all find this model to be a compelling choice. Adventurous musicians needing one instrument to handle both bass and baritone roles will gravitate toward the Vintera III. Flexible electronics and a comfortable neck make it suitable for every skill level, while vintage-accurate hardware attracts discerning players and collectors.

Brand & Product Story: Fender’s Legacy of Innovation

Debuting in the early '60s, the original Bass VI was designed for those craving more range and versatility. The Vintera III series honors this history, faithfully recreating the look, feel, and sound that shaped a generation. Every Bass VI embodies Fender’s enduring commitment to fusing tradition with modern musical demands.