So.. I'm 45 and don't play an instrument. Little help...

[ElwoodPDowd]

Originally Posted by 1958Bassman

Better to play well on something that's not great than to play poorly on a great instrument.

Better to play poorly on a nice instrument than to play poorly on a not so great instrument.

[ElwoodPDowd]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6f7FImHD-w

Alphonso Johnson

[Kenzy]

Originally Posted by Biggbass

Just get a P and call it a day.

Sig?

I personally prefer Jazz basses to Precision for numerous reasons. The J neck may be easier on you. You should definitely try one out if you haven't yet.

[Solarmist]

Originally Posted by macrocheesium

I started out on an Ibanez SR and I wouldn't have had it any other way. The slim neck is ridiculously easy to play for beginners. A lot of people think that the necks are too thin, so of course you'll want to try one out first. With such a broad question and so many great manufacturers, it's hard to give you an answer other than try them out for yourself (and I really hate having to say that).

+1Try one at least, and see if it fits you. An SR500 (or higher) with the Bart 3band EQ. Very nice quality basses.


Like some other have said - go to your local music strores, and try them out. There are a lot of choices.

Do you want active or passive?
P, J or humbuckers?
Lighter or heavier?
Vintage or modern?

[LWagner]

A used Mexi P bass or Jazz bass is what I would get if I just starting out. It will last you a life time and if bass playing isnt your thing you could get your money back out of it pretty easy. They pop up all the time on Craigs List for around $300 - 350.

[pedroims]

I would like to suggest a used Fender Jazz. You can look for a good deal in the classified section. here is a good example

NEW FENDER MIM JAZZ BASS FSR (FENDER SPECIAL RUN) COPPER MIST METALLIC MAPLE BOARD!!!

You can try it and see if you like a passive bass, later on you can search for a used preamp (audere, jretro) so you can try an active bass, they are very easy to install. In case you dont like it you can sell the preamp and get your money back. At this point what you should do is buy used and gear that can you can sell fast: Fender, Squier as examples.

[Ewo]

Originally Posted by ElwoodPDowd

Alphonso Johnson that is.
Of "Weather Report"

Yeah, I was wondering if that's who you meant.

My .02: a Jazz is an excellent choice for playing Cucumber Slumber!

<rimshot> But seriously, my suggestion would be to get started playing that loaner P, and meanwhile hit music stores and pawnshops to check out as many different basses as you can. Keep your wallet closed; this is an exercise in discovering your personal preferences in ergonomics and tone.

I'm a J guy the way a lotta folks are P guys/gals. All good! But having clarity about the kind of instrument that works for what I want to do (and can do) on the bass is valuable knowledge, and it took me a while, going through quite a number of basses, to find out I'm a J guy. So I'd suggest you not rush into a purchase, but spend some time exploring what's available to you.

[guitar ed]

My suggestion: Take your lessons for 6 months or so on the bass you have now. It's a good bass. After you have played for a while, you will have some idea as to what you want, or don't want, in a bass. Then play other basses.

But don't go playing a bunch of basses now as you really don't know what you have or want or need.

Just my $0.02.

edg

[agent77]

Originally Posted by guitar ed

My suggestion: Take your lessons for 6 months or so on the bass you have now. It's a good bass. After you have played for a while, you will have some idea as to what you want, or don't want, in a bass. Then play other basses.

But don't go playing a bunch of basses now as you really don't know what you have or want or need.

Just my $0.02.

edg

^ this

[hdracer]

Originally Posted by guitar ed

My suggestion: Take your lessons for 6 months or so on the bass you have now. It's a good bass. After you have played for a while, you will have some idea as to what you want, or don't want, in a bass. Then play other basses.

But don't go playing a bunch of basses now as you really don't know what you have or want or need.

Just my $0.02.

edg

+2

[THORRR]

LEARN SONGS !!

Spend as much of your time as you can allow to learn
songs that you like to listen to. If you're already familiar
with a song mentally (subconsciously) then you inherently
know the bass part. You only have to teach it to your fingers.

The more songs on www.YouTube.com that you can play
along with successfully, the easier it will be to jam with local musicians
and your confidence level will build up with your songlist repertoire.

ON A REGULAR BASIS go to your local music store and play what
you've learned on virtually EVERY bass in the house.

In short order, you'll locate your preferences for sound, neck contour, action,
bass brand, etc. You'll be amazed how fast this goes if you're taking the time
to practice new material ALL the time.

Your skills will advance rapidly and your music may carry you to places
previously not even considered.

Formula for Success in Anything:
1. Decide what you want to do
2. Decide how to do it
3. Do it

ROCK ON!!

[ElwoodPDowd]

THORRR
Just named my new puppy Thor.

[mystic38]

+1

I just cannot bring myself to recommend a P bass with its thick chunky neck to a beginner over a jazz bass... or any decent Ibanez..SR500 & up

Originally Posted by Kenzy

Sig?

I personally prefer Jazz basses to Precision for numerous reasons. The J neck may be easier on you. You should definitely try one out if you haven't yet.

[Durockrolly]

It's really hard to suggest anything when you, yourself' don't know what your taste are. Music stores are your friend. Also find a meetup group you can join and sit in (when you feel comfortable) and play as many guitars as possible to develop your likes and tastes. Then and only then can people give you constructive advice to help you out!

[ElwoodPDowd]

I thought the neck was thick also. But since it is the only bass I have ever held i didn't know. I also don't like the metal covers over the pickups. I wont remove them because it isnt mine.

And what it the little black "thumb rest" looking bar below the pickup?

[ElwoodPDowd]

Originally Posted by Durockrolly

It's really hard to suggest anything when you, yourself' don't know what your taste are. Music stores are your friend. Also find a meetup group you can join and sit in (when you feel comfortable) and play as many guitars as possible to develop your likes and tastes. Then and only then can people give you constructive advice to help you out!

I totally agree and understand. However, when people who know stuff start talking it is amazing how much can be learned. I have already learned enough to make the thread worth while.

[Buster Brown]

Originally Posted by ElwoodPDowd

I have always wanted to learn Bass guitar. My lessons start next week. NO this is not a new year's resolution.

I don't have a guitar yet. I am borrowing my brother's reproduction '73 P-Bass.

What I want is a bass that is easy to play. Though I don't know the difference right now.

I like the looks of the Hofner H500. But again I like everything at this point.

I don't want a budget guitar that I will not feel proud of. Not to be a snob. There are probably cheaper guitars that are a pleasure to own and play. But I don't know enough to navigate those waters.

What I would like is some suggestions of guitars that will be a long lasting joy to play. Not just a get me started. I have the PBass for that. (for awhile anyway)

I am open to entry level and moderate expensive. Though if it is an expensive guitar I will be shopping the used market.

Thanks.

First, congratulations! You've come to the right place. We are a group of like-minded Brothers and Sisters who play bass. We are here to help.

No question is stupid.

My personal opinion (As a guy who has played since the late 60s) is to buy the best quality bass you can afford. How do you decide which bass you want? Do like most of us here do....become a regular in the bass section of your local music store, be it a GC or a Mom and Pop store.

Become familiar with the guys that work there and play as many different models and makes as they have. Just noodle about on them and don't be intimidated by those who come in, sit own and go to town.

They started out just like you.


Congratulations! and don't be a stranger here!!!

[ElwoodPDowd]

One of my biggest questions is the playability. My left hand is having trouble moving the way it needs to. Aside from exercises and the obvious learning curve, I am wondering what makes a neck/ guitar easier to play?

Neck size, shape... ???
Is there a universally recognized design that is easier for beginners? That kind of thing...

[AcridSaint]

Originally Posted by guitar ed

My suggestion: Take your lessons for 6 months or so on the bass you have now. It's a good bass. After you have played for a while, you will have some idea as to what you want, or don't want, in a bass. Then play other basses.

But don't go playing a bunch of basses now as you really don't know what you have or want or need.

Just my $0.02.

edg

+3

Everyone told me to go play basses - maybe that makes sense if you have played guitar or have some other musical experience (although, I think not). In my case, I didn't have ANY previous musical experience, so we're in the same boat. I don't honestly think I could make an informed decision based on my playing at that time. When I finally did decide to upgrade, I took a very good bassist (whose style and playing I liked) with me and had him weigh in and play before I bought.

If you have a free bass to play on, learn how to play it, decide a budget and then work towards your own when you're ready. Maybe you'll just really love the bass you borrow and buy your own. Some people love the Musicman bass, when I first started I tried several of them and really just couldn't dig it. Today, maybe that's different. Who knows, I didn't know what would sound good to me and I didn't know how to make it sound good.

Also, I think you should buy used on this forum after you know what it is that you're after. You'll get a lot more bass and you'll know exactly what you're getting.

[Kenzy]

Originally Posted by ElwoodPDowd

One of my biggest questions is the playability. My left hand is having trouble moving the way it needs to. Aside from exercises and the obvious learning curve, I am wondering what makes a neck/ guitar easier to play?

Neck size, shape... ???
Is there a universally recognized design that is easier for beginners? That kind of thing...

You're a beginner, your left hand shouldn't be accustomed to playing quite yet, but the neck of the bass is indeed a factor in this. Generally, people find it easier to play thinner necks with a shorter scale. Lightweight guitars are better too. You may want to lower the action on your strings make sure you haven't any neck bow as well.