Bass Price Divisions

My input: Buy used. You can get a great value at any price range. Look here in the TB classifieds. My favorite "go to" bass retailed for $1,200 and I got it for a tad bit under $400 here. It was used but it perfect condition.

 

I agree. Buy used. You always end up getting a good deal. What kind of bass are you looking for?

 

Are you a new player? Have you tried anything out at a store to see what kind of neck/pickup combination you like?

 

It sounds to me like you might want to try out a P-bass or a P-bass copy. I don't mean to tell you what you want, but it might be worth a try out if you have not played one.

 

Trying to find a bass that is suited for certain types of music is a waste of time and it is non productive. Any type of music can be played on any bass. Decide what features you want, like pickup configuration, passive/active, neck size, etc. looking for a 24 fret neck really limits your choices. A 20 fret neck will do anything you need to do. Like others have said, buy a like new used bass. It will be at least 40% cheaper than a new bass of the same model. You need to try quite a few new basses to understand the difference and what appeals to you, then shop for a used bass of that model.

 

All basses are different. Get the one you like.

 

If you want versatile, I have owned three basses with Bartolini pre's and pups. They have been some of the most versatile basses I have owned. I would worry less about price range, and more about finding something you like. I recently purchased an Ibanez 706, and certainly did not plan on getting that one. But, for me, the neck style and the flavor of the electronics was something I am familiar with, and it just felt right. There are both good and junky basses in all price ranges, you just have to play them. That has always been the drawback for me for buying used basses on the forum. I have traded one, bought one, and sold one on here, and have had good experiences, but my tastes in basses are so picky now, I don't know if I would buy something sight unseen again.

As far as off the shelf versatility and playability, I think Ibanez, Spector, and Schecter can all be decent bang for the buck basses. If you dig Fenders, great, but many folks on here seem to pop them out as a first recommendation. I have owned a J and P, but they are just way too old-school looking for me.

Just my 2.

 

This is key. It sounds like you have time--go out there and try everything you can get your hands on, see what you like that fits your budget (but also try pricier stuff for comparison's sake). Then check the used market, because deals abound these days.

 

I guess I'm a "buy new" type of person. If you're looking for one you can "design" yourself,you might check out the Carvin line. I have a B4 and an XB75PF...both are really nice USA made and top quality. I believe the B4s start around the $600.00 price range. For 800.00 you can have a heck of a guitar. (Just my .02 worth.)
Kent