The Squier Affinity Jazz Bass VI in Black Metallic is my entry point into the world of six-string bass, and what drew me in was the promise of chordal playing and the experience of that distinctive high C string. For that purpose, it largely delivers.
Let’s be clear about one thing from the start: this instrument is priced reasonably for a reason, and walking in expecting premium quality would be setting yourself up for disappointment. With the right mindset, however, there is a lot to appreciate here. The neck feels reassuringly sturdy, though only time will reveal how well it holds up in the long run. The sound is genuinely pleasant and suits the instrument’s character well.
That said, there are a couple of areas worth noting. The tuners feel slightly sluggish, responding with a subtle delay that can make the tuning process a little less precise than ideal. The tone knob, similarly, doesn’t seem to make as noticeable a difference as you’d hope; leaving you wishing for a bit more tonal control.
None of this, however, takes away from what the Squier Affinity Jazz Bass VI ultimately is: an impressive instrument at an almost unbelievable price point as long as you approach it with realistic expectations. I’m genuinely happy with mine.