Basses

[trinibassman]

I need some advice on basses I would like to buy a bass this year but  I don't know how to start. How do I know what is the best bass out there. How do professionals choose a bass

[ddwilkins]

The best bass is the bass that you are most comfortable with, you can afford, and sounds good to you.  What fits me, may not fit you, so your best bet is to go to the music store and try out some basses.

[Bassics]

I chose to go with Ibanez because of comfort.  It was comfortable in the sitting and standing positions, also my left hand felt comfortable around the neck.  My right hand felt comfortable with my thumb resting on the pickup as i ran my fingers across the strings(which is the method i use to play).  As an example, i did not feel that comfort with Fender.  Have you received instructions on how to hold the bass?  If you have, Like ddwilkins said, go to the store and just try out some basses.  If not, get some beginners instructions from a friend, instructor, or from the unlimited resources on the internet on how to hold a bass.  Good luck.

[MikeGee]

Buying your first bass is a lil risky. It's kinda like buying a used car. Try getting some advice from a trust worthy person first. Or even bring that person with you.

Ibanez or Peavey will be a good start mostly because of the price compared to what you get. They both make a solid instrument with out the gadgets and gizmos of the more expensive bass. At an alright cost

With out knowing your budget this bass makes a good starter. Most likely you won't out grow it any time soon.

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/Ibanez-SRX2EX1-4String-Bass?full_sku=103862231

[malthumb]

I would advise picking up a used Fender Jazz Bass or Fender Precision Bass.  If it turns out that you absolutely hate it, you will more than likely be able to get all of your money back, because everybody knows what they are.  In the meantime, you can play it and start to discover what you like and don't like and apply that knowledge towards defining your next bass.

Fender basses come with either Passive or Active electronics.  Which to get is very much a matter of preference, but for someone getting their first bass, I would suggest getting an active bass.  You can play most active basses in passive mode, but you cannot play a passive bass in active mode.

When you are looking for a used Fender, recognize that even beyond Jazz (J) or Precision (P), and active v passive, there's one other thing that can impact price of a used instrument.......Where it was made.  Typically the pecking order is that Made in Mexico (MIM) costs less than Made in Japan (MIJ) which costs less than Made in America (MIA).  Notice I said "costs" and not "is better than".  That would touch off a massive debate that nobody would win  .

Typically, you can find a used passive MIM J or P for $175 - 250.  Active for about $100 bucks more.
Typically you can find a used active MIJ J or P for $375 - 700 (don't know if there are any MIJ passive basses)
Typically, a recent, used passive MIA J or P will run you $400 - 900.  Active will run you $6 - 1,200

Then there are "vintage" or "collectibles".  You don't wanna go there right now.

The easiest way to get real good pricing data is to go out to eBay and see what recently completed auctions sold at.

Good luck with your shopping

Peace,

James

[Mysteryman]

I say go with the Ibanez BTB series if you plan on doing multiple styles. If you are more laid back with a smooth sound go with the Ibanez SR series basses. You will not be dissappointed.

[laj528]

I say go with the Ibanez BTB series if you plan on doing multiple styles. If you are more laid back with a smooth sound go with the Ibanez SR series basses. You will not be disappointed.

I agree the BTB can be purchased from $450 and on up. They play well but have a wide neck that can be hard for new hands to stretch.

I love my BTB 405qm it is not too expensive but it I plays and feels great. “gotta love the variable mids and the 18 volt preamp"

IMHO

[carlmack7183]

I hate to contradict many of the other responses, but I personally would go with a Fender Jazz bass (new or used) b/c you are going to get a professional sound and in the case that you decide bass is not for you, then you will probably get 75% of you money back. Many other intermediate basses cant say the same. Whenever someone tells me they want to get into bass I recommend a Mexican Fender Jazz Deluxe. Hope you find what you are looking for

[bassthumpa]

+1 for a Jazz bass, a good default option.

[IotaNet]

+1 for a Jazz bass, a good default option.

+1

Especially if you buy used. There are very few places you need to go musically that a Fender Jazz can't take you -- in style.

[dhagler]

Certainly, your budget will have something to do with your choice but a Fender Jazz is never a bad choice.  Also, check out www.rondomusic.net.  They make a good Fender clone (made in China) that will be $150 shipped to your door.

Even better, go to your local music and play several basses in your price range.  Play the same tune or bassline so that you can compare fairly.  Once you've narrowed your choice to two or three, take someone knowledgeable with you and let them help you decide.

[Mysteryman]

Certainly, your budget will have something to do with your choice but a Fender Jazz is never a bad choice.  Also, check out www.rondomusic.net.  They make a good Fender clone (made in China) that will be $150 shipped to your door.

Even better, go to your local music and play several basses in your price range.  Play the same tune or bassline so that you can compare fairly.  Once you've narrowed your choice to two or three, take someone knowledgeable with you and let them help you decide.

Yeah Rondo will have it there in 2 days.