The standard 34” bass scale length was popularised by Fender with its Precision Bass model. As one of the earliest electric basses that became available to consumers in the ‘50s, this design arguably set the precedent for future bass guitars, with Fender’s equally popular Jazz Bass also following the same 34" specification.
As we explained in the previous section; the longer the scale length, the higher the string tension. Bass guitars with a 34” scale length will generally have quite a lot of tension, although this can depend on the string gauges that they have been fitted with. With a standard set of bass strings though, you’ll probably be able to feel the amount of strain put through them when tuned to pitch.
This high tension can therefore make a 34” scale bass feel fairly difficult to play, as not only are the frets quite distant from one another, but the strings are also harder to press down onto the fingerboard. This can be counteracted by setting a low action, whereby the string saddles are adjusted to move the strings closer to the frets. But some players like the tension offered by standard-length basses, where the strings offer more “fight” - so to speak.
Ultimately, the main benefit of a longer scale length is tone. Greater tension results in a clearer and more pronounced string sound, which gives notes a punchier quality. It also enables a quicker response with more attack, as the strings vibrate within a much narrower range. This is considered the main perk of a standard 34” bass scale length.
