I'm new...

[dctslp]

Okay... Im I've been borrowing my friend's bass for a few days now, and I've decided to buy my own.. So, i need suggestions. Im into Metal/Jazz... I like to slap. Budget is around $400...
Thanks in advance D

[colcifer]

LMAO! Sorry, we have an inside joke about this...

[adamnitti]

hi, and welcome to the forum!

lots and lots of choices out there for basses... however, i'm not as familiar with what is current in that price range. i've seen great workmanship from the entry level yamaha and ibanez stuff, but you'd want to play them in person to see if they are what you are into. usually i recommend new players pick up something used because you can get a much better bass for the price of something new that isn't as good.

folks, any specific suggestions for our new guest?

used Fender on Craigslist

[HolmeBass]

For slap maybe a Fender Jazz bass profile, find a nice Squier version? Or Ibanez Soundgear? For more old school the ATK basses are very highly rated, but maybe too expensive, and not sure about slap (especially modern) on the ATK. Maybe one of the baby MusicMan Stingray basses? IIRC I have seen those praised on a number of threads recently.

I would also heartily suggest using the search tool here on TalkBass, there's got to be a million words already written on this and closely related topics. You know, search "used jazz bass" or "used bass beginner" or something like that. Happy hunting!

[bass1967]

What do you think of your friends bass? Size, weight, overall feel?

I completely agree that used is the way to go. You will get more for your money.

I would also recommend Craigslist. Unless someone here has a bass you might like.