advice on cheap basses that are keepers!

bach2112 · #1 11-28-2011, 11:35 AM

I read a couple of threads on here about some cheap basses that are worth more then listed. Currently I'm playing a fender by squire p bass, but want something that resembles a wal or a warwick in tone. I know that's about damn near impossible, but any ideas? I'm working with about 350 to 400, due in part to the gallien head and cabinet I'm going to be purchasing soon. I have also eyeballed the epiphone thunderbird goth. Any thoughts to this?

bach2112 · #2 11-28-2011, 11:37 AM

Also, there isn't any good used gear I have found. I have been looking, but found nothing worth the price or the restoration.

Jim Carr · #3 11-28-2011, 11:52 AM

If you fill out your profile, country, region, etc., I think others will be better able to help. BTW, have you checked the TB classified section?

**ronaldpdbrandt** · #4 11-28-2011, 11:53 AM

You have to be patient when looking for used gear. It took me watching both the TB classifieds and CL every day for a couple of months to find my 1981 Rickenbacker 4003 and my 1982 Washburn Force 8. They were both used (obviously), but they both play extremely well and needed no restoration whatsoever. Don't assume that just because you don't see anything good listed today that there won't be the exact bass you want posted tomorrow.

I wanted both of those basses, and I searched diligently until I found them, at very reasonable prices to boot. The trick is not settling for something else and spending all your cash while you're waiting for the right one to come along.

Also, if you're patient, you'll also be able to save a little more money while you're searching, and you'll be in a position to get something a little closer to your ideal bass.

Good luck!

theretheyare · #5 11-28-2011, 12:04 PM

For that money you could look at Spector, the older Korean ones are plenty and good basses for the 2nd hand money IME. Or do your own restoration.

And if you want something specific used, like he said: be patient and keep looking. Sometimes nothing happens for a year, and then 2 of them pop up at the same moment.

AmadeusXeno · #6 11-28-2011, 12:05 PM

I have tried the Squier CV P bass, and although it's not gonna get you a Warwick tone it is a very nice bass with a good tone. Fits in your budget too.