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best bass around $300

M

mightypants

May 22, 2009
48
0
#1
I bought a bass for $60 a couple months ago, and its giving me problems...yes, I know, that was to be expected, but I really couldn't afford anything better at that time and wanted to start learning as soon as possible. Now I need something decent, but I'm still pretty broke. Anyone have recommendations for good/versatile basses around $300?

Here's some info about me:

I'm primarily a composer (trying to get into film/TV music), learning bass to add it to the instruments I can play/record myself for projects. As such, having an instrument that works well for a variety of styles is very important. That said, I imagine the bulk of what I record/play with it will fall under the general categories of jazz, rock, and electronic. (You can check out Link Removed to get a better idea of what kind of stuff I do).

I plan to go to Guitar Center in the next couple of weeks to try some basses out, but I wanted to get some opinions here first; perhaps someone will recommend something I wouldn't have thought to try, etc. My current bass is an Ibanez GSR200--it sounds pretty decent and I think I would be happy with it if it weren't for some condition issues. I'm also a big fan of Fender guitars, but from what I've seen online only the Squier brand fits in my budget. I'm in no way married to either of those brands, I just wanted to give you an idea of what I know about. I'd like to keep it under $300 if I can, but could go a little above for the "right" bass.

Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Thanks.
 
#6
Have ya considered taking the bass to a good tech and having a pro setup done? It's amazing how much difference a careful setup can make to the feel of a bass.

If the playability is what prompts you to replace it, this might be a good option.
 
#12
Ewo said:
Have ya considered taking the bass to a good tech and having a pro setup done?
Click to expand...

when I bought it I knew it needed a setup, so I got that done (by a pro). It did make a huge difference, but there is some warping in the neck that causes some frets to choke out unless I set the action REALLY high. The repair dude said it would be easier to replace the neck than to fix it, and I don't really feel like spending that kind of money on a bass I bought for $60. Plus, now I have a problem with the electronics--I got a sudden increase in static the other day and it has remained ever since.

Thanks.
 
#13
I got my Ibanez RD500 for abt 250.00 last year on closeout..a super value for a solid bass, better than this price: Invalid Link Removed
You CAN get something excellent for $300 and under these days if you look around. I got my ESP LTD Viper 404 for $300. used...it's the best sounding bass I've ever had. Mahogany, active, set neck...A bit heavy though. Wow! $399 at sam ash Invalid Link Removed
 
#20
A lot of good suggestions here. I tried a squier 51 pbass and jazz (either VM or classic vibe, can't remember) and thought they were very nice for the price! 300 gives you a lot of good options.

On a side note, 7 years ago I bought a new MIM jazz for 300 and that was the normal price...I can't believe they are selling new for twice that now!
 

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