MadCatz Wireless Fender Precision Bass Guitar – Xbox 360 Product Review
When I got the USB version of the MadCatz Precision Bass Guitar I, loved it. The fact that it was 84% scale and had great response made it a must have for any Rock Band player. Granted the USB cable, while long enough, was an inconvenience compared to the wireless guitars. So when MadCatz sent me the new Xbox 360 version with wireless connection, I was anxious to try it out. The box is the same: well protected and shows the care MadCatz takes when making their products. Granted a nice protected box is great, but how is it overall? Read the full review and see why it out performs the USB version.
First Impressions:
The box has the same see through window. It looks huge and well-made and takes about 3-5 minutes to unpack and connect to the Xbox 360. It uses 3 AA batteries and features the same split finger strum bar. The heavy feel is still there and the whammy dial and effects are the same. It also has the same top with the extra large tuning keys and it looks great. The dials, except for the whammy, are silver and the buttons are still large and very responsive. The D-pad and everything else is the same as the USB version. I will admit the Sea Foam green color reminded me of those funk-style basses of the 70’s but in a way helps it stand out. The only new feature is that it works with the MadCatz Overdrive stomp box. So far MadCatz already had me impressed but what about using it with RB: The Beatles or the new Guitar Hero games?
Impressions While Playing RB: The Beatles and RB 2 etc:
There have been a few new games added since the old bass was released. I wanted to test the Wireless Fender Precision Bass Guitar on RB: The Beatles. I was treated to smooth responsive buttons and it worked perfectly. I will warn you the Bass is great, but does not have the auto calibration. The best bet is to just leave it as is or use the RB 2 guitar unless you know the right settings. I noticed no lag or unresponsiveness from the buttons. I also really liked the way MadCatz has their buttons spring back. It makes playing a lot easier. If you read the last review, I did mention that using the split bar but with some practice makes hitting the harder notes easier. I also do not recommend this as your first bass or guitar. This is meant for those who have some experience with RockBand games. I did not have any problems or issues while playing the Beatles. Although the whammy dial will take time to learn to use. Overall impressions while playing were great and no wire to get in the way!
They also included the rubber guards the Bass is compatible with RB 1, 2, The Beatles and Guitar Hero 4 & 5, DJ Hero. There is a switch to use if playing RB 1 or 2. All other games leave the switch at RB 2. If you buy it from the MadCatz store, you’ll get the stomp box, cable, faceplate and sticker pack for $94.99. It’s not cheap but the quality and the performance make up for the price.
Bottom Line:
Over Score: 9.4/10
Final Impressions:
I have to say I am impressed and pleased with the new wireless version. I will agree it’s a bit expensive but you get a lot for the price and it is made to last. I still do not use it as a guitar for the simple fact of the whammy dial but it can be used and works just fine. MadCatz is really bringing out some great accessories for music games and the Wireless Fender Precision Bass Guitar is a great example. The bass comes in three colors red, sea foam green, and butterscotch. For those wanting a realistic feeling bass, I am sure you will find it a great investment.
Wireless Bass Features:
Patent-pending dual/split Strum Bar for two-fingered Bass action
Doubles as an in-game Guitar with Whammy Knob & solo Fret Buttons
Premium-quality Strum Bar lasts over 2.5 million cycles
Twice as quick recoil-action Fret Buttons
30 Ft. (9.2m) wireless range
Right or left handed gameplay
Includes official Fender Bass Strap
Compatible with Rock Band, Rock Band 2, The Beatles: Rock Band, and Guitar Hero 4 & 5, DJ Hero
Overdrive Pedal Features:
Official Electro-Harmonix Rock Band 2 Overdrive Pedal
Soft activation switch
10′ Cable for freedom of movement
Durable construction for increased longevity
Simplifies Overdrive activation
Compatible with all Rock Band 2 and The Beatles: Rock Band bass and guitars.
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Filed under: Reviews • Xbox 360
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Cool review. Other than the color, it looks sweet.
I have the old wired one (white) and i was sorely disappointed that it does not work with GH: Metallica. Do you know if this one does?
I’m on the fence about having to buy a new guitar just for this game. My friend got GHM when it came out and brought it over. Found out it didnt work.
GHM is the only GH i really want. Can’t find an answer for this on the net anywhere.