Ok guys...

rickyBgood · #1 07-05-2011, 11:45 PM

I am an official newb as I have played guitar for 20 years on/off and am now looking to play bass but have no clue about the ins and outs. I just want a decent starter bass 3-500 price range but what are the brands to stay away from? Oh I play mostly classic rock.

Looking fwd to some feedback. I'm fine for 2nd hand off Craigs too. Just need to know what to watch out for.

Thanks!
Ricky

rickyBgood · #2 07-06-2011, 03:46 AM

After looking around I gotta say I really like the looks of the Epiphone Thunderbird. Any thoughts on this bass?

tekdiver500ft · #3 07-06-2011, 04:51 AM

For classic rock, I'd look at a Precision bass. The Squier Classic Vibe is a phenomenally well made instrument for the price ($350). Another option is the Sterling by Music Man Ray 34. These are the classic rock sounds. The Precision is the original, and what everyone (except bass players) thinks of when they talk about bass. They really thump. If you want to wail, then you want the Ray.

IMHO, YMMV, etc.

rickyBgood · #4 07-08-2011, 02:51 AM

Thanks much appreciated! I might have mentioned that I feel more comfortable playing with my fingers not sure if that makes a difference. So I take it I should avoid Thunderbird? I'm going to try a few different bass's just wanted somewhat of a starting point. Sound like Precision is the way to go.

tekdiver500ft · #5 07-08-2011, 04:16 AM

The Thunderbird wouldn't be my choice, but I don't care for the sound (they tend to get muddy if you aren't really good with EQ), and they are heavy. I obviously have a preference for Squier Precisions, but that's why I have one. The Thunderbird is a good instrument, and it will take a beating (so will the Squier), but expect to have to have it setup, and expect to spend a lot of time finding a sound you like from it.

Oh, and the obligatory IMHO, YMMV, etc.