Hey all! Just want to say "HI". Been reading TB for a while and now that I actually own a bass, I thought I'd say a hello.
Short story:
Always wanted to learn to play something, picked up an Epiphone Thunderbird Pro IV and an Acoustic B200. Never really played anything (guitar or bass), so it will be an interesting trip.
Long story:
As a kid, I always wanted to play guitar (who didn't?!). Never had the chance. Married, made a baby (well, wife made the baby, but I contributed!), and raised her. When daughter was about 8, we wanted her to learn to play an instrument. We suggested piano or violin, but she wanted to learn guitar. So, we got her set up with something simple/cheap but decent. She has been playing and taking lessons up 'til a few months ago. This fall, she's off to college! I was looking at her guitar a while ago and thinking, "Hey, she's done with lessons. My turn!" She's not taking guitar and amp to college, so it's all mine.
Then I got to thinking. When I listen to a song, I find myself following the bass, and I like songs with a strong bass line. If I'm going to take the time to learn something, I'll learn what I like best! Of course, I'd have to buy a bass and an amp. I checked with my financial consultant (wife) and she said we got a pretty good refund so we can buy something.
Time to go bass shopping! Daughter's instructor offered to go with us to play each bass that we might consider. (I can't play a thing and thought it would be best to hear each one being played by someone with experience.) I'm poor and cheap (yeah I know, bad combination) so I was thinking a Squier Affinity ($200) and a 25 W amp ($120). Instructor said spend a little more and I can get a much better setup. Financial consultant said we could spend more. After listening and sitting with several at both Guitar Center and Sam Ash, we settled on an Epiphone Thunderbird Pro IV and an Acoustic B100. Both stores were going to have a Memorial Day sale, so we waited 'til then. Got the TBird for $424 and the B200 for $299. Yeah I know I originally said a B100, but instructor said more power is better for a bass and financial consultant approved. (Thinking about it now, I think she would have approved anything I wanted!) They didn't have the color I liked, so we had to order the bass (free shipping to house!). When daughter saw it, she said "SICK!". I later found that sick can mean good/cool?
I passed 50 a few years ago, so I'll see it it's possible for this old dog to learn a new trick! I printed the tab for the beginning of "Dazed and Confused"; seems like it should be easy to play. I'm getting there, and having fun (this thing can get LOUD!
). Going to email instructor right now and set up a first lesson. This should be interesting . . .
Family picture:
