Squier 0373800506 Sonic Bronco 30" Short-Scale Bass

The Squier Sonic Bronco Bass is a compact electric bass designed for players seeking a comfortable short-scale instrument. Its 30-inch scale length reduces the overall reach compared with a standard long-scale bass, making it a practical choice for beginners, younger players, guitarists adding bass to their setup, and players with smaller hands. The black finish, white pickguard, and classic Bronco body shape give it a clean, traditional look.

A single ceramic single-coil neck pickup provides the instrument's core voice, with Master Volume and Master Tone controls for direct adjustment. This simple control layout keeps operation approachable while allowing players to shape the brightness and output level for practice, rehearsal, or recording. The pickup is positioned to deliver a focused, punchy bass character suited to many foundational bass parts.

The maple neck uses a slim C-shaped profile, a 1.5-inch synthetic-bone nut, and a 9.5-inch Indian laurel fingerboard. Together with the short scale, these dimensions support a more compact playing feel and lower string tension than a typical 34-inch bass. Nineteen narrow-tall frets provide the playable range for common bass lines and melodic parts.

A 4-saddle standard bridge allows individual saddle adjustment for intonation, while sealed die-cast tuning machines are designed for smooth tuning operation. Nickel-plated steel strings in .045-.105 gauges come fitted from the factory. Chrome-plated hardware, a four-bolt Squier neck plate, and a gloss polyurethane body finish complete the durable, straightforward build.

This is a passive electric bass that should be used with a bass amplifier or suitable audio interface and an instrument cable. Its uncomplicated single-pickup layout can fit easily into a starter rig, a home-practice setup, or a compact secondary bass collection. Players can also use the included adjustment-tool specifications as a reference when setting saddle height or neck relief.

Key Features

• 30-Inch Short Scale: Compact scale length supports easier reach and lower string tension.
• Ceramic Single-Coil Pickup: Delivers a focused, punchy bass voice with simple controls.
• Slim C Neck: Maple neck profile provides a familiar, approachable hand feel.
• Indian Laurel Fingerboard: 9.5-inch-radius fingerboard carries 19 narrow-tall frets.
• 4-Saddle Standard Bridge: Individual saddles allow practical intonation adjustment for each string.
• Sealed Die-Cast Tuners: Smooth-operating tuning machines support accurate tuning adjustments.

Design & Installation

The Bronco Bass has a poplar body with a gloss polyurethane finish, a bolt-on maple neck, and chrome-finished hardware. Its black body is paired with a one-ply white pickguard and pearloid dot position inlays on the Indian laurel fingerboard. Vintage-style strap buttons, knurled flat-top control knobs, and a four-bolt Squier neck plate round out the instrument's hardware.

For setup, connect the bass to a bass amplifier, DI box, or compatible audio interface with a standard instrument cable. Adjust the Master Volume and Master Tone controls to suit the connected rig, and use the 4-saddle bridge for intonation setup when changing strings or adjusting action. Fender specifies a 1.5 mm hex wrench for saddle-height adjustment and a 4 mm hex wrench for the head-adjust truss rod.