About to start learning; advice on guitar purchase sought

[brian113]

Hi all,

I'm looking to learn how to play bass and would appreciate some advice on buying a guitar. No aspirations other than hanging out with my 30-something buddies & playing some rock n roll. I have no guitar experience.

I've a budget of up to $200 for a guitar, but I'll stretch to $300 if it's a great deal on a guitar that I'd be happy with for a long time. I'll get the smallest, chepest amp (in addition to the $200 guitar budget) for practice since I live in an apartment.

Should I buy new or consider any of these ads that are on my local Craigslist? Practically all of these ads are missing model info, so I realize your advice on some of them with be vague, but I'd greatly appreciate some pointers.

* $300 Ibanez: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
* $100 Ibanez: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
* (best offer) Lotus: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
* $225 Schetcter Stilleto Deluxe: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
* $78 Spirit (Oscar Schmidt): [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
* $195 Indiana bass (w/ amp): [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
* $140 Yamaha RBX170: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed] (has posted a couple times, I could probably talk him down a few bucks)

Thanks for any advice you can offer.
— Brian

 

[Matt_W]

If you are getting the cheapest amp you can, I wouldn't recommend spending money on the more expensive basses as you wont be able to hear the quality improvement. As long as that cheap spirit feels comfy, I'd give that a try. If you then decide you enjoy playing the bass, you can upgrade.

 

[brian113]

let me rephrase: I'll be using a cheapie amp for practice at home. When I get together with the boys, it'll be at one of their homes and I'll be jacked into one of their amps. I referenced the amp so people didn't include for its purchase out of the $200 budget that I listed for the guitar.

Sorry for any confusion.

 

[Matt_W]

In that case, I'd go and have a go with the Schetcter, and perhaps still the spirit. I'd try them all out if it is feasible, it's a decision you should make really.

 

[DelsFan]

I just finished reading eight pages of favorable posts concerning the Fender Squier Deluxe Jazz Active V. $299 (new!), but I think these guys were discussing 5-strings. Seems $249 for a four string would be great, and as you get better you could consider some reasonably priced mods...

Just a thought.