Fender Mustang Bass MB98 CIJ

Year: 1999 – 2002
Finish/Color: Fiesta Red with racing stripes
Made in: Japan (CIJ / Crafted in Japan)
Factory/Plant: Fujigen Gakki

Short scale, huge punch This MB98 model hails from the legendary Fujigen factory during the golden Crafted in Japan era (circa 1999–2002). While the Mustang was originally designed as a student model in 1966, this Japanese reissue is built to professional standards. Its 30-inch short scale length makes for incredible playability and lower string tension, resulting in a fat fundamental tone that is surprisingly deep. The split-coil pickup on these CIJ models is known for having a punchier, clearer output than many vintage originals, and the string-through-body bridge ensures that even with the shorter scale, you don’t lose an ounce of sustain or resonance.

The competition racing stripes on Fiesta Red are a direct nod to the muscle car culture of the late 60s that heavily influenced Fender’s design team. But the Mustang Bass has a secret weapon: it was the last bass Leo Fender designed for the company before his departure. Because of its unique harmonic thud, it became the secret studio weapon for everyone from Tina Weymouth (Talking Heads) to Justin Meldal-Johnsen (Beck, Nine Inch Nails). This specific CIJ model is highly sought after because it features a more comfortable 7.25” neck radius and vintage-accurate hardware that many modern versions have since moved away from.