1958 P Bass thoughts?

[Hambone 70]

Now, I know that opinions are like, well, er... but I nevertheless value the inputs of the bassheads here. As a beginning bassist at age 58, I don't have much time left to master the craft. I'm working on it. I like many styles of music, and one day I hope to play in a classic rock covers band.

I have an irrational and illogical desire to acquire a 1958 P Bass. I'm 58, the 1958 bass is 58, blah blah. So I'm trying to justify dumping some cash on a decent one. Like this, for example: Andy Baxter Bass & Guitars Ltd

1) The history of the instrument intrigues me. I'm thinking it will make it more fun and motivational to practice.

2) Possibly a good investment? Not a major consideration, but something to think about.

Yes, I know a new or modern instrument may sound better, play better, cost less, etc. But that's not what this is all about. Some of you will understand that.

And yes, I know I haven't "paid my dues", but life's short, and I'm running out of time!

Thanks in anticipation!

 

[chris_b]

You've convinced me. What are you waiting for!!

 

[filmtex]

I have a 59/60 and all I can say is-go for it.

 

[two fingers]

If it doesn't hurt your finances, go for it! If you get it, and hate it, you can always sell it and lose nothing or virtually nothing.....possibly even gain a buck or two.

Have at it!

 

[bobyoung53]

Baxter is expensive for what you get, I could see them wanting 10 grand for that.

 

[Dominick C.]

So when you're 59... the next few years should be a lot of fun. Good news is you hit the CBS years right at retirement.

 

[mojomike001]

Now, I know that opinions are like, well, er... but I nevertheless value the inputs of the bassheads here. As a beginning bassist at age 58, I don't have much time left to master the craft. I'm working on it. I like many styles of music, and one day I hope to play in a classic rock covers band.

I have an irrational and illogical desire to acquire a 1958 P Bass. I'm 58, the 1958 bass is 58, blah blah. So I'm trying to justify dumping some cash on a decent one. Like this, for example: Andy Baxter Bass & Guitars Ltd

1) The history of the instrument intrigues me. I'm thinking it will make it more fun and motivational to practice.

2) Possibly a good investment? Not a major consideration, but something to think about.

Yes, I know a new or modern instrument may sound better, play better, cost less, etc. But that's not what this is all about. Some of you will understand that.

And yes, I know I haven't "paid my dues", but life's short, and I'm running out of time!

Thanks in anticipation!

Congrats on taking up bass at 58! Never too late. It so happens that 58 is the perfect age to start playing bass. It's what I did soon after I retired almost four years ago. I'm now 62 and bass has taken over my life. Earlier this year, I had a craving for a white blond '58 reissue. I wound up building myself a dead-on replica starting with a great body by MJT.

 

[nonohmic]

Damn son, if you can i say go for it!

Another option is to pick up a road worn 50s for a while and see if you like the fit, then if so flick it off and go for the real deal. You'd prob only lose $150-200 in flipping it which is what like 1% of what you're thinking of dropping on the mack daddy.

Plus you could sell it to me cause i want a road worn 50s P

 

[Oddly]

Go for it.
Life's too short for regrets.

 

[Road Hat]

 

[Afc70]

Wait til you are 62 & buy a 62 p bass
Just kidding.... go for it & good bassin'!

 

[nonohmic]

Also, from those clips that thing sounds amazing. You could spend thousands trying to find 'that' tone by buying jazz basses, foderas etc before you realise it was there in front of you all along.

 

[JimmyM]

Hey man, you've lived long enough to where nobody should be telling you what to do with your money as long as you're not letting your family starve as a result. As for being a beginner, irrelevant. All that matters is if you have the money.

 

[veebass]

Sure can't buy it after you are gone.
Never regretted buying my 56. BTW I am 59 and you are a spring chicken.
Good on you for taking up bass- get a good one. It makes practice more enjoyable.

 

[Nev375]

If you don't buy it someone else will.

 

[pfschim]

nice bass, but if you can actually put your hands on it before buying, that would probably be good (particularly at that price point). Just remember, just because it's "vintage" does not mean it's any good. You will only be able to tell if you have a connection with it if you try it out in person - and I'd offer that advice to someone who was only spending 300 on a new Squire.

Unless you are just bound and determined to get this particular bass, there are other vintage shops (Like Gruhn in Nashville) that would be happy to work with you.

FWIW, I'm 60 and have been playing bass for money since I was 10. It's never too late to start, and you can play a long time. My kids are going to have to pry my bass out of my cold dead fingers

I'd say go for it.
and
Enjoy!

 

[ExaltBass]

I have a '59 and played lots of other basses of the era. Go for it!

 

[DLemos]

I'd get a re-issue. For me, something that old, is for a collection, even a collection of one.

 

[Kirk Bryant]

The older you get the cheaper that basses your age cost! Haha I'd say go for it if you can. On the other hand I'd look around a bit before I bought that particular one. Kebos bass works have these from time to time. Edit, actually he has one in Olympic White for under 6K

 

[Thummel]

It's your money brother, enjoy it any way you wish!