| there are lots of cheap bass packages that come with a small practice amp, a strap, a cord, and some type of instruction book to get you started. I would not recommend ordering one off the internet though. these instruments vary greatly in build quality and playability. your best bet is to go to your local music store with someone who has been playing for several years and have them check the instrument for frett buzz, neck straightness, tone, etc...
keep in mind that if you have any problems with your instrument it is much easier to take it back to your local store than it is to ship it back to some megacompany. | 
