Hi, I don't play bass (yet)

[Minotauros]

I don't play bass but I want to learn. I've been learning guitar for the past almost-two years, after a 20 year hiatus (which was a stupid thing to do).

My likes in music range from classic rock (primarily) to western classical, Indian classical, and pretty much everything, except rap. I know little to nothing about jazz, but would like to learn about it. What I've heard I like (not that I know what it is I've heard!). I'll listen to country too, and not complain.

I have really bad GAS (don't we all?). On my wish list:

Yamaha FG720S 12-String Acoustic.
Ibanez AEB5E AEB Acoustic Electric Bass (probably wouldn't play it plugged-in).
And maybe down the road an electric bass:
Ibanez IJXB190 4-String Electric Bass Pack

So I may not have much to say for a while, but I hope to learn by reading here. All knowledge about music is good.

[becker4567]

IMHO, you would be money ahead to get yourself a inexpensive beginners kit. SX (rondomusic.com) has kits for around $130. Decent quitar, rubbish amp (but it's ok to start learning on), and assorted pieces. You will probably get input here about "inexpensive" guitars for around $400 dollars, but since you really don't know what you want in a bass, why spend big bucks? Since you have been using a guitar, you might try a short scale bass. Oh, and one more thing, DON'T try and run a bass through a guitar amp! It will sound awful, and your guitar amp will have a short, sad life.

[Minotauros]

Thanks for the tips.

I've had some suggestions for those "inexpensive" basses around $400 from guitar shops, but I can't justify it now. I agree about going inexpensive. I'm sure I'll love bass, but I can't justify a lot of money for it now.

My Jackson 6-string came in a package. It was a good deal, so I know they're out there. I'll check the site you mentioned.

I keep wavering between an acoustic-electiric bass (playing unplugged), and electric. I tried the Ibanez AEB10 and liked it. But it's almost $400. The lower end AEB5E is $199.

I wouldn't use a guitar amp for bass, though some people said you can at low volume. But a shop owner/manager said it just wouldn't sound right, if not outright ruining my little amp. If this means more gear, I'm all for it.

[Stumbo]

Welcome to TalkBass!

You may want to check out the links in my sig. for some great TB info that may help you along the way.

Good luck.

[Minotauros]

Thanks, I appreciate that. I'll need to do plenty of reading and learning, I'm sure.