Best bass guitar

The bass guitar market has never been more saturated, with more high-quality options than ever before. This makes it the perfect time to purchase one of the best bass guitars available. Whether you’re looking for a thunderous five-string model for doom metal, a powerful four-string for slapping and popping, or an understated classic, you’re sure to find the perfect instrument for your needs.

The abundance of bass guitars on the market can make it somewhat harder to choose the right one for you. However, we’ve done the hard work for you and searched high and low for the best bass guitars available. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or a more pricey one, we’ve got you covered. Each bass guitar offers excellent playability and great value within its price range. So take your pick from brands like Fender, Music Man, Yamaha, and others. You’re sure to find the perfect bass guitar for your needs.

When it comes to finding the best bass guitar for your needs, you don’t always have to spend a lot of money. It’s important to consider the features that you need and the quality of the instrument, regardless of the cost. While some bass guitars may be more expensive than others, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re better. So, don’t be afraid to shop around and find the right bass guitar for you. It could end up being a great investment.

Here is a list of 14 bass guitars that are both affordable (less than $1000) and perfect for a variety of different musical applications. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a more experienced player, these basses will do the job. They provide great sound quality and value for your money, without any of the unnecessary extras that can drive up the price. So if you’re looking for a great bass guitar that won’t break the bank, check out this list. You’re sure to find the perfect instrument for your needs.

Best bass guitars reviews

The Fender American Ultra Precision Bass is a stunning instrument. With an Ultra Noiseless Vintage Jazz Bass single-coil in the bridge and its split-coil counterpart in the middle, it is versatile and feels incredible. The new Modern D profile neck feels great, complementing a newly contoured body for an unforgettable playing experience.

The Yamaha BB435 5-string bass guitar is a great option for players at all levels. It’s solidly built, with versatile tone options and a playable neck. The six-bolt miter neck joint creates a good approximation of a neck-through construction, making the BB435 a great option for players looking for an affordable instrument with high-end features.

1. Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Jazz Bass

Body: Poplar

Neck: Maple, bolt-on

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: 21, narrow tall

Pickups: 2x Fender Designed Alnico single-coil pickups (bridge, middle)

Controls: 2x volume, master tone

Hardware: 4-saddle Vintage-style with Threaded steel saddles

Left-handed: No

Finish: 3-Tone Sunburst, Daphne Blue, Black

The Jazz Bass is a popular choice for bass players around the world. Its smooth and mellow tones make it perfect for jazz music, but it can also be used for other styles of music as well. Many bass players prefer the Jazz Bass because of its comfortable playing style and its ability to produce a wide range of sounds.

The Jazz Bass has been a popular instrument since its introduction in the 1960s. Many imitators have followed, and the design has been tweaked and revised over the years. There’s a reason for this – the Jazz Bass looks cool and it sounds great. The Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is based on those original ’60s models, and it’s an affordable option that delivers vintage tones and plenty of value for money. If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish bass guitar, the Classic Vibe Jazz Bass is a great choice.

The Jazz Bass is a great instrument for those who want a thumping, in-your-face sound that is still elastic and alive. The controls on the instrument offer a wide sweep of tones, making it versatile for a variety of genres.

2. Yamaha BB435 Bass Guitar

Body: Alder

Neck: 3-play Maple/mahogany/maple, bolt-on

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Rosewood or Maple

Frets: Rosewood or Maple

Pickups: 21, medium

Controls: 21, medium

Hardware: 2x volume, master tone

Left-handed: No

Finish: Teal Blue, Black, Tobacco Brown Sunburst

If you’re in the market for a vintage-modern bass that won’t break the bank, the BB435 is a great option. Yamaha has a range of pro-level basses, but the BB435 is an exceptional value. It has all the features you need to hold its own on any stage.

The BB435 is a great bass guitar for players who are looking for a lively and dynamic instrument. It has a fuss-free control system with a master tone knob that serves both pickups, and independent volume controls that allow players to adjust the balance between the pickups however they like. There are certainly more detailed onboard EQ shaping options on other bass guitars, but few are as simple or elegant as the BB435.

The BB435 would make an excellent choice for any player looking for their first five-string. The low B string is tight and well-defined, making it ideal for heavier styles of music. The build quality is exceptional throughout – this is a bolt-on instrument but the six-bolt miter neck joint is so strong you might swear it’s a string-through. This, allied to the clever 45-degree string-through bridge design, helps set the BB435 apart from other instruments in its class. If you’re looking for a great value, high-quality five-string bass, the BB435 should definitely be on your shortlist.

3. Epiphone Thunderbird Vintage Pro

Body: Mahogany wings

Neck: 7-ply mahogany/walnut through body

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 20, medium small

Pickups: 2x Epiphone ProBucker Bass #760 Humbucker

Controls: Neck Volume, Bridge Volume, Master Tone, 3-way pickup selector

Hardware: 1960s TB-Bass Tune-o-matic with Claw tailpiece

Left-handed: Mo

Finish: Alpine White, Tobacco Sunburst, Ebony

There are a lot of bass guitars on the market, and not all of them are perfect for everyone. Some bassists just can’t get on with the Thunderbird. It has a lot of shape going on, and some people say it can be a little imbalanced and prone to neck tilt. But if you love it, you love it; and there’s really nothing quite like it, with its dual-humbuckers providing all kinds of thumping low-end radness and the mahogany winged, neck-through body rounding it all out. If you’re looking for a unique bass guitar that will give you an incredible sound, the Thunderbird is definitely worth considering.

There are a lot of bass guitars on the market, and not all of them are perfect for everyone. Some bassists just can’t get on with the Thunderbird. It has a lot of shape going on, and some people say it can be a little imbalanced and prone to neck tilt. But if you love it, you love it; and there’s really nothing quite like it, with its dual-humbuckers providing all kinds of thumping low-end radness. The mahogany winged, neck-through body rounds it all out, giving the Thunderbird a unique look and sound. If you’re looking for a bass guitar that will give you an incredible sound, the Thunderbird is definitely worth considering.

The Epiphone ProBucker Bass #760 Humbuckers deliver thunderous sound, while the ’60s style neck profile provides a comfortable playing experience. Additionally, the reversed body shape allows for easy swinging around on stage. Though it may not be suited for slapping bass, this bass is perfect for rock and roll, blues, and punk genres. Ultimately, it all comes down to the player’s skill level that determines what can be accomplished on this instrument.

4. G&L Tribute L-2000

Body: Swamp ash

Neck: Maple, bolt-on

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Maple or rosewood

Frets: 21, medium jumbo

Pickups: 2x G&L MFD Humbuckers

Controls: 1 x master volume, 2-band EQ, series/parallel switch, 3-way toggle preamp mode, 3-way toggle pickup switch

Hardware: Leo Fender-Designed G&L Saddle-Lock bridge

Left-handed: Yes

Finish: Natural, 3-Tone Sunburst, Olympic White, Clear Orange, Redburst

The Tribute L-2000 is a replica of its Leo Fender-designed namesake that debuted in 1980. What blew minds then and still does is the switching system. There’s a trio of knobs, and a cornucopia of tone options to be had here. Toggle between active and passive modes, between neck, middle or both humbuckers, and series/parallel mode. This jemmies open the sonic possibilities even before you get to the two-band EQ. You can also coil-tap the humbuckers for single-coil sounds. The Tribute L-2000 is an extremely versatile bass that can cover any style you throw at it.

The controls on the instrument may seem difficult to understand at first, but with a little experimentation, you’ll be able to find the perfect settings for your needs. The performance of this bass is excellent for the price, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable instrument.

The hardware on this guitar is top-notch. The Saddle-Lock bridge is a Leo design, neat, sturdy, and a solid platform. The tuners are open-backed, old-school. But it’s the pickups and electronics that people will ask you about after the show. Those US-made G&L MFD humbuckers are overwound with a ceramic core and they’re powerful. And they’ve got individually adjustable pole pieces, just in case the switches and EQ didn’t present enough choice. You won’t be disappointed with this guitar.

The hardware on this guitar is top-notch. The Saddle-Lock bridge is a Leo design, neat, sturdy, and a solid platform. The tuners are open-backed, old-school. But it’s the pickups and electronics that people will ask you about after the show. Those US-made G&L MFD humbuckers are overwound with a ceramic core and they’re powerful. And they’ve got individually adjustable pole pieces, just in case the switches and EQ didn’t present enough choice. You won’t be disappointed with this guitar.

Body: Mahogany with bubinga top

Neck: Multi-laminate maple and walnut, neck-thru buildScale: 35”

Scale: 35”

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 24, extra jumbo

Pickups: 2x EMG 45 Hz humbuckers

Controls: Active 3-band EQ, blend, master volume

Hardware: Schecter Diamond Custom bridge, Grover tuners

Left-handed: No

Finish: Honey Satin, Satin See-Thru Black

The Stiletto Studio 6 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a six-string bass that is both comfortable and affordable. With a nut width of 54mm, the Studio 6 is perfect for those who are looking to transition to a six-string bass, or for those who are looking for an instrument that can handle a wide range of styles. The EMG 45Hz humbucker pairing and comprehensive 3-band EQ make the Studio 6 perfect for those who want to dial in their sound, whether they are looking for a more traditional bass sound or something more progressive. Scoop the mids for some effervescent slap, or boost them and the treble for some really up-front, bass-as-a-lead instrument tones. The Stiletto Studio 6 is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and affordable six-string bass.

If you’re looking for an acoustic guitar with a jumbo fretboard that rewards a light touch, the Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is a great option. This guitar has a neck-through build that makes it easy to reach the summit of the fretboard, and the build quality is excellent – it’s not light, but it’s well-balanced and built to last.

6. Fender JMJ Road Worn Mustang

Body: Alder

Neck: Maple, bolt-onScale: 30”

Scale: 30”

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 19

Pickups: Seymour Duncan Custom split-coil

Controls: Volume, tone

Hardware: 4-saddle, strings-through-body Mustang bridge

Left-handed: No

Finish: Black, Faded Daphne Blue

The Fender Mustang Bass is not typically thought of as a versatile bass guitar, but renowned session player Justin Meldal-Johnsen swears by his 1967 Mustang Bass as his number one bass. Meldal-Johnsen has played with Nine Inch Nails, Garbage, and Beck, and there is not really a Venn Diagram you can draw with much overlap between those. This just goes to show that the Fender Mustang Bass is a versatile and capable bass guitar that can be used in a wide range of musical styles.

The Mustang Bass is a great choice for players transitioning from guitar to bass. Its 30” short-scale makes it incredibly accessible, while its custom-wound Seymour Duncan split-coil provides plenty of range and tone. Additionally, the thumb rest will come in handy for those who do their picking up by the neck. Ultimately, the Mustang Bass is a great all-arounder that sounds great and is easy to play.

7. Ibanez SR2405W 5-String Bass Guitar

Body: African mahogany core, panga panga and figured maple top

Neck: Panga panga/purpleheart 5-piece laminate

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Panga Panga

Frets: 24

Pickups: 2x Aguilar Super Double Single-Coils

Controls: Volume, pickup pan, bass, middle, treble/passive tone control, three-way mid-frequency switch (250Hz, 450Hz, 700Hz), active/passive selector switch

Hardware: Ibanez MR5S Mono-rail bridge, Gotoh machine heads, gold

Left-handed: Yes

Finish: Caribbean Green, Brown Topaz Burst

The SR2405W is a meticulous bass that feels stage-ready out of the box, and it is well-tooled to make full use of your stage and studio time. It’s clear that this instrument has been designed with the professional in mind, as it offers an impressive range of features and capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, the SR2405W is a great option for those seeking a high-quality, stage-ready bass.

The Rogue LX200B is a great bass guitar for anyone looking for a versatile and affordable option. The neck is quick and easy to play, while the wide nut width makes it perfect for slap players. The 3-band EQ and pickup pan give you plenty of tonal options, making it perfect for any style of music.

The Ibanez SR2405W is a bass you’d think twice about playing down the local dive bar for two reasons: its high price tag and delicate finish. But just plug it in and play again; that’ll bring the smile back to your face. This bass has all the features you need, like 24/7 security to protect against dings and theft. And when the inevitable ding comes, it’ll be painful—but worth it for the great sound. So if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line bass, the Ibanez SR2405W is the one for you.

8. Fender American Ultra Precision Bass Guitar

Body: Alder (ash on Plasma Red Burst and Aged Natural models)

Neck: Maple, bolt-on

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 21, medium jumbo

Pickups: Ultra Noiseless Vintage Jazz Bass (bridge), Ultra Noiseless Vintage Precision Bass (middle)

Controls: Master Volume, Pan Pot (Pickup Selector), Treble Boost/Cut, Midrange Boost/Cut, Bass Boost/Cut, Passive Tone, Active/Passive Mini Toggle

Hardware: 4-saddle HiMass bridge, Fender”F” Light-Weight Vintage-Paddle Keys with Tapered Shafts

Left-handed: No

Finish: Aged Natural, Mocha Burst, Arctic Pearl, Ultraburst

The American Ultra Series offers a more evolutionary than revolutionary approach to modernizing Fender’s top-line US-built instruments. We think they found the sweet spot with this Precision Bass. It is unmistakably a P-Bass; the classic silhouette is present and correct. You’ve got a choice of an alder body or ash, retro pick-guards in three-ply mint green or 4-ply tortoiseshell. But with a new Modern D neck profile, the 10-14″ compound radius fingerboard, HiMass bridge, lightweight tuners and a newly designed preamp, it’s an altogether more contemporary proposition.

The American Ultra body is contoured more heavily across the back, with a newly sculpted heel that allows for easy access to the upper frets. The Ultra Noiseless pickups are an excellent pairing, with the punchier Vintage Jazz single-coil in the bridge position offering a nice counterpoint to the rounded warmth of the middle position split-coil. The player-friendly amendments to an all-time classic make this guitar worth the investment.

9. Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 HH

Body: Ash

Neck: Roast maple, bolt-on

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Roast maple, ebony or Rosewood

Frets: 22, stainless steel

Pickups: 2x Neodymium humbuckers

Controls: Active 3-band EQ, master volume, 5-way pickup selector

Hardware: Vintage Music Man top loaded chrome plated, steel bridge plate with vintage nickel plated steel saddles, Custom lightweight tuners with tapered string posts

Left-handed: Yes

Finish: Charging Green

The Music Man StingRay bass guitar has been a mainstay of the company’s lineup since it was first introduced in 1976. This iconic instrument is easily recognized by its distinctive shape and sound, and continues to be one of the most popular bass guitars on the market. Thanks to its versatile sound and comfortable playing feel, the StingRay is perfect for a wide range of musical styles. Whether you’re a beginner bass player or a seasoned pro, the StingRay is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality instrument. Thanks to its timeless design and excellent craftsmanship, the Music Man StingRay is sure to be a bass guitar that you’ll enjoy playing for many years to come.

The StingRay guitar is a great choice for any musician. It’s built with quality and practicality in mind, and it’s a bolt-on construction. This means that it’s easy to assemble and maintain. The StingRay also comes with stainless steel frets, a compensated nut, and a beautiful finish. Plus, the pickups and electronics are top-notch. The only downside is that it’s a bit pricey. But, when you consider all that you’re getting, the StingRay is definitely worth the investment.

The StingRay bass is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of styles. With its redesigned humbuckers and 18-volt preamp, it can produce some of the fattest bass tones imaginable, or some of the sharpest tones with a midrange upper-cut. The neck is on the fat side but don’t let that fool you, this bass plays perfectly. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the StingRay is a great choice for any bass player.

10. Warwick German Pro Series Thumb BO 5-String Bass Guitar

Body: Ovangkol

Neck: Ovangkol, bolt-on

Scale: 34”

Fingerboard: Wenge

Frets: 24, jumbo

Pickups: 2 Active MEC J-Style

Controls: Master volume, balance, 2-band EQ

Hardware: 2-piece, chrome

Left-handed: Yes

Finish: Burgundy Red, Natural Satin

The Warwick growl is a thing of beauty – an upfront, pugnacious quality to the active MEC J-Style pickups that will deliver all the thunder you need for rock settings. If you turn it up loud enough, you’ll be in for a treat.

The Thumb is a great bass guitar for players who want a simple, no-nonsense design. The 2-band EQ gives you all the control you need over your sound, and the push-pull volume control lets you bypass the active electronics for a range of passive tones.

The build of the Warwick Teambuilt Pro Series is exceptional, and the balance between the long-scale neck and compact, ergonomic body is really a kind of magic. The construction is impeccable, and the sound that this bass produces is truly amazing. If you’re looking for an amazing bass guitar that will feel like an extension of your body, and that will sound incredible, then you need to check out the Warwick Teambuilt Pro Series.

The body and neck of the guitar is ovangkol, a sustainable tonewood that sounds similar to rosewood or koa. The BO in the name stands for bolt-on, meaning that the neck is attached to the body with screws. This makes it easy to replace the neck if it ever becomes damaged.

11. Fender American Performer Precision Bass

Made In: USA

Colour: Satin Lake Placid Blue, Arctic White, 3-tone Sunburst

Body: Alder

Neck: Maple

Scale: 34”

Neck Joint: Bolt on

Nut Width: 1.625”

Fingerboard: Maple

Frets: 20

Pickups: Yosemite Jazz

Electronics: Greasebucket tone circuit

Controls: 2 x volume, 1 x tone

Hardware: Vintage-style steel saddles, Vintage paddle keys

Weight: 3.7kg

Case/gig bag: Deluxe gigbag

Left-hand: Yes

There is no doubt that Fender is one of the most popular brands of guitars. This is especially true when it comes to the bass section, where you can find an abundance of Fender models. This is because Fender has a long history of producing quality bass guitars, with some models such as the Jazz and Precision Bass being incredibly popular among bass players. While other brands have started to catch up in recent years, Fender still remains the go-to choice for many bassists thanks to their reputation for quality and tone.

The Fender American Performer Precision Bass is a great choice for any bass player looking for an instrument with exceptional American-built quality and tone. The Greasebucket tone circuit is a nice touch, adding in a bit of extra tonal variety, while the satin finish makes it a dream to play. With its great features and versatile sound, the Fender American Performer Precision Bass is a bass you’ll love for years to come.

12. Sterling By Music Man SUB Ray5

Made In: China

Colour: Black Gloss

Body: Basswood

Neck: Maple

Scale: 34-inch

Neck Joint: Bolt-on, six-bolt attachment

Nut Width: 45mm

Fingerboard: Maple

Frets: 22

Pickups: Passive humbucker

Electronics: Active two-band EQ

Controls: Volume, bass, treble

Hardware: Chrome hardware, open elephant-ear machine heads, fixed chrome bridge

Weight: 4.2kg

Case/gig bag: No

Left-hand: Yes

The SUB RAY5 is a great bass guitar from top to bottom. It has the build quality you expect from Music Man instruments, and it has a powerful, resonant tone that belies its affordable price. The level of finishing is very good, and although it doesn’t quite have the presentation sparkle of the more expensive models in the range, it’s still an excellent value for the money. The playability is superb, and for those who are new to five-string basses, this is the perfect guitar to start with. It’s available in a variety of colors, so buy with confidence and be amazed at what this amazing instrument can do!

14. Yamaha TRBX305 bass guitar

Made In: Indonesia

Colour: Mist Green Gloss

Body: Mahogany

Neck: Maple and mahogany

Scale: 34-inch

Neck Joint: Bolt-on, four-bolt attachment

Nut Width: 43mmFingerboard: Rosewood

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 24

Pickups: M3 humbuckers

Electronics: Active two-band EQ

Controls: Volume, pickup pan, bass, treble, five-position performance EQ switch

Hardware: Black nickel hardware, Yamaha die-cast machine heads, top-loading bridge

Weight: 4.1kg

Case/gig bag: No

Left-hand: No

At every price point Yamaha produces high-quality basses that are some of the best in the market. Regardless of whether you are looking for an affordable option or something more luxurious, Yamaha has a bass that will fit your needs. With careful construction and attention to detail, Yamaha’s bass guitars offer great sound, playability, and value.

The TRBX305 is a budget-friendly five-string bass guitar that competes with more expensive models, boasting an impressive pickup and circuit combination as well as quality hardware. Its overall setup makes it easy and enjoyable to play.

The TRBX305 bass guitar is a great option for players looking for an affordable instrument that doesn’t sacrifice quality. The mid-EQ control would make this bass even better, but it already sounds great. The pickups are sculpted to look cool and the neck profile is comfortable, making the TRBX305 a winner in my book.

15. Fender Geddy Lee Signature Jazz bass

Made In: Indonesia

Colour: Black Gloss

Body: Alder

Neck: Maple

Scale: 34-inch

Neck Joint: Bolt-on, four-bolt attachment

Nut Width: 38mm

Fingerboard: Maple

Frets: 20

Pickups: Passive vintage single-coil pickups

Electronics: Passive

Controls: Volume, volume, tone

Hardware: Chrome hardware, Fender open elephant-ear machine heads, Fender High-Mass bridge

Case/gig bag: Deluxe gigbag

Left-hand: No

The bass is lively and has a great sound. It’s easy to play and feels sturdy. Overall, it’s a great instrument. You’ll be impressed with its performance straight out of the box.

The black block position markers retain a vintage vibe along with the black gloss and white scratchplate aesthetic. Players of all styles can make use of the features and tones on offer, but at this price, few Jazz basses play as well as this model. Prepare to be as blown away as we were when you play one yourself.

16. Epiphone Viola Bass

Made In: China

Colour: Vintage Sunburst

Body: Maple

Neck: Maple

Scale: 30.5”

Neck Joint: Set

Nut Width: 1.65”

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 22

Pickups: NYR Mini Humbucker

Electronics: N/A

Controls: 2 x volume, 1 x tone

Hardware: Chrome die-cast

Weight: 5.4kg

Case/gig bag: No

Left-hand: Yes

Short scale bass guitars can be a great option for younger learners or players who are more comfortable with a smaller instrument. They offer a nice, snappy twang that can complement clean guitars well. While they may not be for every taste, they are certainly iconic and have been used by some of the best-known bands in history. The Epiphone Viola is a well-made bass that captures the charm of these instruments perfectly. For under $/£/€400, it’s an affordable option for any player looking for a quality short scale bass.

17. Ibanez SRH500-DEF Bass Workshop

Made In: Indonesia

Colour: Dragon Eye Burst Flat

Body: Mahogany with spruce top

Neck: Jatoba and bubinga (five-piece laminate)

Scale: 34-inch

Neck Joint: Bolt-on, four-bolt attachment

Nut Width: 38mm

Fingerboard: Panga panga

Frets: 24

Pickups: AeroSilk piezo system

Electronics: Active

Controls: Volume, tone, individual piezo gain adjustment

Hardware: Black matte hardware, Ibanez machine heads, custom bridge

Weight: 2.8kg

Case/gig bag: No

Left-hand: No

The Ibanez SRH500 electro-acoustic bass is a great option for anyone looking for a smaller, lightweight bass that packs a lot of sound. It features the standard Soundgear design, which makes it comfortable and easy to play. The bass has a rich, full sound that is perfect for any style of music. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned bass player, the SRH500 is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality electro-acoustic bass.

The Ibanez Talman bass guitar is a great choice for players who are looking for an intuitive and responsive instrument. With only volume and tone controls to contend with, the bass is easy to use and sounds great. The individual piezo gain trim pots for each string make it easy to adjust the output level of each string, and the flatwounds provide a great sound. The matte finish looks terrific, and the Ibanez Talman is a great choice for bassists who want a great sounding and looking bass guitar.

18. G&L Tribute L2000

Made In: Indonesia

Colour: Natural Gloss

Body: Swamp ash

Neck: Maple

Scale: 34-inch

Neck Joint: Bolt-on, six-bolt attachment

Nut Width: 44.5mm

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 21Pickups: G&L MFD humbuckers

Electronics: Active two-band EQ

Controls: Volume, bass, treble, pickup selector, series/parallel selector, preamp control selector

Hardware: Chrome hardware, open elephant-ear machine heads, G&L Saddle Lock bridge

Case/gig bag: yes

Left-hand: yes

G&L instruments are some of the finest guitars on the market today. Though they are less expensive than American-made L2000s, they offer the same quality and tone. With an active two-band EQ, series/parallel pickup switching and selective preamp operation, players have plenty of options at their disposal to sculpt their tone. Whether you’re looking for a clean sound or something more distorted, G&L guitars can do it all. So if you’re in the market for a new guitar, be sure to check out G&L instruments – you won’t be disappointed!

The L2000 Tribute bass is a great choice for any musician looking for an instrument that can handle any style of music. It’s solidly built and provides a great tone, making it perfect for slap and pop players.

19. Music Man StingRay Special

Made In: USA

Colour: Burnt Apple Gloss

Body: Alder

Neck: Roasted maple

Scale: 34-inch

Neck Joint: Bolt-on, five-bolt attachment

Nut Width: 42mm

Fingerboard: Roasted maple

Frets: 22

Pickups: Music Man Neodymium humbuckers

Electronics: Active three-band EQ

Controls: Volume, treble, middle, bass, five-way pickup selector

Hardware: Chrome hardware, Music Man ultralite open elephant-ear machine heads, Music Man bridge

Weight: 4.1kg

Case/gig bag: Hard case

Left-hand: No

The StingRay has undergone many changes over the years, but the launch of the Special was perhaps the most radical overhaul of the old favourite. The new bass featured lightweight machine heads, a redesigned bridge and Neodymium pickups, all of which contributed to a weight reduction.

The newly-modified StingRay bass has a roasted maple neck that contributes to its new tone. However, don’t worry – the famed StingRay tone is still there; it’s just been brought into the present.

20. Ibanez Premium SR1340B

Made In: Indonesia

Colour: Dark Shadow Burst Flat

Body: Mahogany body with Ash/Panga Panga top

Neck: 5-piece Panga Panga/Purpleheart

Scale: 34”

Neck Joint: Bolt onNut

Nut Width: 1.5”

Fingerboard: Bound Panga Panga

Frets: 24

Pickups: 2 x Nordstrand Big Single Coils

Electronics: 3-band active EQ, 3-way mid-frequency switch

Controls: Master volume, Balancer

Hardware: MR5S bridge, Gotoh machine heads

Weight: 3.9kg

Case/gig bag: Gig-bag

Left-hand: No

Looking at high-end bass guitars, the Ibanez Premium SR1304B is a prime example of beauty and craftsmanship. With its sleek design and choice of premium tonewoods, this instrument is sure to turn heads even amongst people who have no interest in playing the bass guitar. With its superb build quality, you can be assured that this guitar will provide exceptional sound quality and playability for years to come. Whether you’re a professional musician or a hobbyist, the Ibanez Premium SR1304B is definitely worth your consideration.

The Panga Panga wood used in the neck of the Ibanez SR1304B improves the clarity and attack of your playing. The Nordstrand single coil pickups provide a breadth of tone and texture that would suit many different styles of music. The overall design and build quality of the Ibanez SR1304B is excellent. The only drawback is the price, which is a bit on the high side. But if you’re looking for a great sounding and playing bass, the Ibanez SR1304B is definitely worth checking out.

21. Rickenbacker 4003

Made In: USA

Colour: Fireglo, Mapleglo, Jetglo

Body: Maple

Neck: Maple

Scale: 33.25”

Neck Joint: Through body

Nut Width: 1 11/16”

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Frets: 20

Pickups: 2 x Single Coil

Electronics: Mono and stereo outputs

Controls: 2 x tone knobs, 2 x volume knobs, 3-way pickup selector

Hardware: Chrome

Weight: 4.1kg

Case/gig bag: Hard case

Left-hand: Hard case

The Rickenbacker 4003 is a bass guitar that is popular among a variety of musicians. It has a versatile sound that makes it a good choice for a range of genres, from metal to indie rock. This guitar is also well-loved by Lemmy and Paul McCartney.

When it comes to bass guitars, the Rickenbacker 4003 is a real standout. It features two pickups combined with a comprehensive control panel, allowing you to dial in some amazing low-end rumble and growl, as well as warm and mellow bass tones, depending on what you need. Additionally, the horseshoe hand rest can make for some really comfortable playing positions, though you can take it off if it’s not for you. These basses sound incredible – and they’re made to a really high standard. However, they’re not cheap – plus, due to the way in which they’re manufactured and distributed, there can be some really long waiting lists for them.

22. Yamaha BB434

Estimated Price: $500

Strings: 4

Body Wood: Alder

Finish: Gloss

Neck: 5-piece maple/mahogany

Neck Joint: 6-bolt Miter joint

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Fret Count: 21

There are some basses out there that emulate the classic tones of Fender basses, but put them in a unique package that looks and feels much more authentic than copying Fender note for note. A prime example of a bass that does this is the Yamaha BB434. The BB434 has a unique look and feel that sets it apart from other basses on the market, while still delivering the classic Fender tones that so many players love. If you’re looking for a bass that combines classic Fender tones with a unique and authentic look, the BB434 is definitely worth considering.

The body of this bass is made from alder, which is a type of wood that is often used in Fender basses. It has a contoured body with a double-cutaway, which gives you easy access to the higher frets. The body is a bit wider than a Jazz or P-bass, though. The neck is made from maple and mahogany, which gives it two dark skunk stripes that carry into the headstock. This makes the bass look unique and cool.

The BB434 has a standard 4-saddle bridge plate that can be top-loaded or thru-body. The thru-body anchors are at an angle to the bridge which provides more flexibility in the strings. The tuning machines have open gears and clover tuning keys. It has both precision and jazz style pickups with a volume and tone control for each pickup.

The Yamaha BB434 bass guitar has a satin finish neck and headstock, with a gloss black body finish. This distinguishes it from similar Fender bass guitars. It is available in Black, Teal Blue, or Tobacco Brown Sunburst finishes.

If you’re looking for a great bass guitar that doesn’t break the bank, the Broad Bass BB434 is a great option. It has a wide body and glossed headstock that help it to stand out from the crowd of Fender imitations. Plus, its sound quality and classic tones are sure to please.

23. Squier by Fender Affinity Series Precision Beginner Electric Bass

Estimated Price: $230

Strings: 4

Body Wood: Poplar

Finish: Gloss

Neck: Maple, satin finish, Modern C profile

Neck Joint: Bolt-on

Fingerboard: Indian laurel

Fret Count: 20

The Affinity Precision Bass by Squire is a great option for those who are looking for a low-cost bass guitar that still has the classic Fender look and feel. Though you will sacrifice some quality in terms of the wood and pickups, the construction quality, overall look, and tone of the instrument will be up to par with other Fender models. Additionally, the Jazz Bass pickup by the bridge provides a good amount of tonal options, making this bass guitar a versatile option for any player.

The build materials used in this guitar are not as good as those used in Fender guitars, but it still has Fender’s high quality control and manufacturing standards. The neck is made of maple, which gives the guitar a bright sound, and the fingerboard is made of Indian laurel, which imitates rosewood quite well. The body is made of poplar, which is a cheaper wood, but it still sustains low-end frequencies well. Overall, this guitar is well constructed and sounds great, but it is not as good as a Fender guitar.

The bridge is a standard top-loaded bridge plate with four saddles. The tuners are standard open-gear machines with clover keys. There are separate volume controls for the split single-coil P-bass pickup and the single-coil Jazz Bass pickup, and a master tone knob.

The neck of the guitar has a satin finish which makes it feel smooth to the touch. The body of the guitar has a gloss finish and is available in black, Olympic white, and race red.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to get that classic Fender look and sound, the Affinity Precision Bass is a great option. Though it’s constructed with materials and electronics of lower quality than more expensive Fender instruments, the overall construction and tone are still top-notch. If you’re on a tight budget, the Affinity Precision Bass is definitely worth considering.

24. Gretsch 5440LS Electromatic

Strings: 4

Body Wood: Laminate maple

Finish: Gloss

Neck: Maple, gloss finish

Neck Joint: Set

Fingerboard: Rosewood

Fret Count: 22

Gretsch is a well-known manufacturer of hollow-body guitars, and their instruments are some of the best on the market. The 5440LS Electromatic is one of their best hollow-body basses, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a lively, wooden tone. With its quality construction and affordable price, the 5440LS Electromatic is a great choice for any musician.

The entire body of the 5440LS Electromatic is constructed from laminated maple, which makes it both sturdy and resistant to changes in humidity or temperature. The set neck is also made from maple, with a fretboard of rosewood. At 34” in scale, this bass is one of the few semi-hollow and hollow basses to have a full scale length. The body, neck, and soundholes are all bound in cream to give the instrument a vintage look.

The Gretsch 5440LS bridge is a unique adjustable bridge with a rosewood base. The two Filter’Tron humbucker pickups can be selected with a three-way switch. There are master volume and tone knobs, and each pickup has its own volume knob. The tuners are standard die-cast machines with triangle keys. This bridge provides great sound and stability, while the pickups allow for a wide range of sounds.

The body and neck finishes are both gloss, and the orange color looks great. The headstock is black with a white “Gretsch Electromatic” badge. This guitar is a great value for the price.

If you’re looking for the warm woody tone of a hollow body and don’t mind investing some money into it, the Gretsch 5440LS Electromatic is the perfect way to go. Besides looking gorgeous, this bass is a true workhorse. It has a full 34” scale and a wide variety of tonal options, making it one of the best hollow basses on the market.

25. Fender Deluxe Active Precision Bass Special

Strings: 4

Body Wood: Alder

Finish: Gloss

Neck: Maple, satin finish, C profile

Neck Joint: Bolt-on

Fingerboard: Maple or Pau Ferro

Fret Count: 20

The Deluxe Active Precision Bass Special is a great choice for anyone who wants a classic Fender bass with a bit of extra bite and power. Its PJ pickup configuration and 18v active preamp provide plenty of punch and versatility, while the traditional P-bass body style ensures that this bass will always look great.

The Fender Deluxe Active P-bass is a great choice for any bassist. It has an alder body and maple neck with a walnut skunk stripe, and you can choose between a maple or Pau Ferro fingerboard. It’s perfect for any musician looking for a great bass guitar.

The Fender Deluxe Active Precision Bass has a high-mass top-loaded bridge plate, and tuners with clover keys. The split-coil pickup is a Vintage Precision Bass pickup, and the bridge is a Dual-coil ceramic Noiseless Jazz Bass pickup. A master volume and pan knob allow you to adjust the volume and blend of the two pickups, and the remaining controls make up a 3-band active EQ. This bass is perfect for any style of music.

The neck finish is satin and the body is gloss. It’s available in three colors: Sunburst, Surf Pearl, and Olympic White.

The Precision Bass with a Jazz pickup added on may seem like just another bass guitar, but it has some features that make it perfect for audiophile Fender fans. It has an 18v preamp and active EQ which allow for greater control over the sound. This makes it the perfect bass for those who want to fine-tune their sound.

How to buy the right bass guitar

When buying an instrument, it’s important to consider a few factors, especially if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. The market offers a variety of instruments to fit every style and budget, which can be quite overwhelming at first. In this buyer’s guide, we’re going to first look over the anatomy of a bass guitar and get familiar with the terminology we’ll be using. This way, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about when reading over the specs of different instruments. After that, there will be three sections diving into body style, string count, and passive vs. active. Deciding on these three factors will narrow down your search and help you find the bass that best fits your needs.

What is a guitar made of?

Body. What makes a bass guitar unique is its body. This part of the instrument houses the pickups, wiring, and controls, and it is what the bridge and neck are mounted to. Bodies are usually made of wood, but the type of wood can affect the tone, weight, and price range of the instrument. Popular woods for bass bodies include maple, alder, ash, and mahogany. Different woods have different qualities that can affect the sound of the bass. For example, maple is a hard wood that usually produces a bright sound, while mahogany is a softer wood that tends to produce a warmer sound.

The style of the body also varies greatly between basses, but we will discuss this in a separate section. No matter what style or type of wood is used, the body of the bass is an important part of the instrument that affects its sound and playability.

Neck. The neck is the length of wood mounted to the body that holds the string tension and the fretboard. Necks are usually made of maple, though other woods can be used. Necks can have different thicknesses and shapes to cater to different players. This is known as the neck’s profile. Necks naturally bow under string tension, so they have a metal rod that runs through the center to stiffen them. This is called the truss rod and it can be adjusted to control the bow, or relief, in the neck.

Fretboard. Bass guitars come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have one common feature- the fretboard. This is a piece of wood on the face of the neck underneath the strings. It serves several purposes- it provides a surface for the strings to vibrate against, it holds the nut at the top of the fretboard (which starts the speaking length of the strings), and it has metal strips called frets which allow you to raise the pitch of the string by pinching it against the fret. The number of frets on a bass guitar determines how high you can play, but usually, there is only a fret or two difference between different basses.

The fretboard is usually made of maple, but it can also be made of other hardwoods such as rosewood or ebony. The nut is typically made out of bone or plastic synthetic bone.

Headstock. The headstock is located at the top of the neck and is made from the same wood as the body. It holds the tuning machines (or tuners) which anchor the strings and also allow you to tune them. The shape of the headstock has little bearing on the sound, so this is up to aesthetic preference.

Bridge. The bridge is the hardware that anchors the end of the strings to the front of the body. The two main types of bridges are through-body and stop tail (or top-loaded). A through-body bridge allows the strings to anchor to the bridge itself or a separate tailpiece. The strings sit on parts called saddles which are typically adjustable. This allows you to make minor changes in the string length and height to set the intonation and action respectively.

A stop tail bridge is anchored at the top of the body with grommets on the other side. The strings go through the body and anchor in these grommets. Stop tail bridges tend to provide more tuning stability and sustain, but they also produce more tension in the string which may feel undesirable to play.

Some bridges have both stop tail and through-body options and allow you to choose. Whichever type of bridge you choose, it’s important to make sure the intonation and action are set properly for optimal playing.

Pickups. The pickups on a guitar are magnets wrapped in wire that capture the string’s vibration and convert it into an electrical signal. They are mounted to the front of the body, underneath the strings. There are several different styles of pickup that produce different tones when amplified. The placement of the pickups under the strings also affects the tone that the instrument produces.

Bass guitars with long scale vs short scale

There are two main types of bass guitar scales: long and short. The scale length is the distance between the bridge and the nut, and it affects the overall length of the instrument. Longer scales provide more range, while shorter scales are easier to handle and play. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which scale length is right for you.

The long scale bass is typically 34″ in length and is considered to be the industry standard. This offers players more options when it comes to purchasing a bass. Those used to playing smaller instruments, or just smaller people in general, may prefer a short scale alternative, however.

Short scale basses are generally easier to play than their full scale counterparts, due to their shorter necks and closer together frets. This also means that they have a warmer, more “bassy” tone. However, their versatility is limited in comparison to full scale basses.

The most important thing when choosing a bass is to find one that feels comfortable and fun to play. Make sure it’s the bass you never want to put down – there’s no point worrying about the future prospects of your playing if you don’t enjoy playing it!

Passive vs active bass guitars

Passive basses have pickups that generate the output signal without any onboard preamp. This means that they rely solely on the pickups to create the signal, which gives them a warmer, more vintage sound. Examples of passive basses include the Fender P-Bass and Jazz Bass.

Passive and active basses both have their own benefits, but an active bass typically has a preamp which can give you more control over your tone. This is because an active bass has a 2- or 3-band EQ, while a passive bass only has controls to attenuate the master tone and volume.

There are other differences between active and passive bass guitars, too. The onboard preamp of active basses can compress your tone slightly – great for more aggressive styles of music such as metal, or hard rock – whereas those dynamics remain up for grabs on a passive bass. This can be a plus or minus, depending on your preferences; some bassists prefer the greater control over their sound that an active bass provides, while others find that the slight compression gives their tone a more ‘bloomed’ or ’rounded’ quality that they prefer. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which setup works best for your playing style.

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding which is better – although people will argue that point. What sounds best to you is best, and that’s the end of it – no arguing, thanks.

Four- five- & six-string guitars

If you’re new to playing the bass guitar, we recommend starting out with a four-string model. This will give you plenty of room to practice and hone your skills, without being too overwhelming. Plus, the standard four-string configuration is perfect for most musical styles.

Basses come in all shapes and sizes, and each has its own capabilities and uses. Whether you’re looking for a versatile four-string for any type of music, or an extended-range bass to explore new sonic territory, there’s definitely a bass out there that’s perfect for you. So don’t be afraid to experiment – with so many options available, the sky’s the limit!

The five-string bass is a great option if you want an extra low string. It has the same capabilities as a four-string bass, but with an extra low B string, it can provide a deeper, darker tonality. However, keep in mind that the fretboard will be wider to accommodate the extra string, and that a set of five-string bass strings can be pricey. If you’re comfortable with a skinny neck or have smaller hands, sticking with a four-string bass may be a better option for you.

If you’re looking for an extra low string and high string, a six-string bass might be the perfect option for you. Compared to a four or five string bass, they offer a wider tonal range, making them perfect for musicians looking to expand their sound. However, the necks can be a little unwieldy for some, so be sure to try one out before you make your purchase.

What is the best number of strings?

When looking for the best bass guitar for you, there are a few key considerations to make. A good place to start is by thinking about how many bass strings you’ll need – a few basses are available in a 4, 5 or even 6 string configuration. Whilst 4 string basses are the most popular, many metal players find that an extra string or two allows them to get lower notes for a heavier sound. You can achieve this by tuning down, but a 5-string bass does have a slightly different feel to it. Some jazz, funk and pop players also like having a low-B string to extend their range. Another key consideration is the type of pickups the bass has. Pickups are what convert the vibration of the strings into an electrical signal, which is then amplified. There are two main types of pickups: magnetic and piezo. Magnetic pickups are the most common type, and they come in either single-coil or humbucking (also known as “double-coil”) configuration. Piezo pickups are less common, but they offer a different sound – many players who use them say that they have a “quacky” tone. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what type of sound you want from your bass, and what type of pickups will help you achieve it. Finally, you’ll also want to consider the materials used in the construction of the bass. Basses can be made from a variety of different materials, including wood, metal and even plastic. Each material has its own unique sonic properties, so it’s worth doing some research to see which one will work best for you. With these key considerations in mind, you’re sure to find the best bass guitar for your needs.

Tonewood options

As a bass player, it’s important to understand the different wood types that are available for your instrument. While ash, alder, and mahogany are all popular options, bass manufacturers have been some of the early adopters of alternative tonewoods. These alternative woods offer their own frequency response and tonal characters, so it’s worth trying a few out to see what is right for you.

Some of the more popular exotic woods include ovangkol, bubinga, and panga panga. Each of these woods offers its own unique tone, so it’s worth experimenting with different types to see which one is the best fit for your playing style.

When it comes to choosing the best bass guitar for you, it’s important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each bass guitar has its own unique sound and feel, so it’s important to spend some time trying out different models until you find the one that’s perfect for you. Trust your instincts and go with the bass that speaks to you – the one that makes you want to pick it up and play all the time. With a little patience and trial and error, you’re sure to find the perfect bass guitar for your own personal style.

What is the perfect bass?

When choosing a bass guitar, the sound of the instrument is important to consider. Basses with single coil pickups usually have a lower output than those with humbuckers. While there is no real rule for what pickups should be used for certain types of music, it is something to think about if you are after a traditional or classic sound.

Basses with versatile pickup configurations can provide a wider range of tones, which may be appealing to players with diverse musical interests. However, those who just need a basic, solid bass tone for their music can get by with a single pickup and simple control layout. Ultimately, it comes down to what the player needs and wants out of their bass.

Weight and comfort of bass guitar

When choosing a bass, it is important to consider not only your playing style but also your body type and size. A bass that is comfortable to play is essential, especially if you will be playing for long periods of time. If you have a smaller handspan, then a short-scale bass might be better suited for you. Guitarists who are making the transition to bass may also find a short-scale bass more familiar. Additionally, how the body of the bass sits on you is important to consider. If you will be standing while playing, then a lightweight bass might be more comfortable. The neck profile will also affect how the bass feels in your hands – a slimmer neck might be better for those who are concerned about big stretches. Ultimately, choosing the best bass for you is a matter of finding the right balance of features that suit your individual playing style and needs.

What about normal amp with my bass?

If you’re looking for an amp that’s specifically designed for bass guitars, then you’ll want to get a bass amp. Bass amps are designed to handle the lower frequencies produced by bass guitars, while guitar amps are not typically designed to do this and could potentially be damaged if pushed too hard. That said, you can technically use a regular guitar amp for a bass guitar, but it’s not ideal. So, if you want to get the most out of your bass guitar, we recommend getting a bass amp.