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Bass Shapes

L

LuckySeven77

May 21, 2010
34
0
Singapore
#1
Hey Guys, I'm getting a new bass soon, and was wondering about the shapes thing. Like some people say that Explorer, or V-Basses are only for like metal and like different shapes are only for certain genre, so My question is: can one use a maybe... a Z shaped bass to play stuff like pop, funk or maybe rock and not get laughed at, or should one stick to the "specific genres" of the bass? I'm getting my first Bass soon and would really appreciate comments. Thanks!
( I'm planning to get a ltd Ex104, or a ltd viper 104, but i'll be playing mostly pop and rock.)
 
#2
You are going to get laughed at no matter what so don't worry about the shape of your bass :p

Seriously, find something that is comfortable to play. Then look around for something that also sounds good while being comfortable. Buy what is fun to play so you'll be motivated to play and practice more.

P.S.: Don't get me wrong, contrary to what most here will say, looks are really important to your enjoyment of playing. It's just that they aren't important right now and by the time they do become important, you'll know exactly what you want and won't need to ask.
 
#3
about the only funny shaped bass you would be able to get away with in pop music without being laughed at is the gibson thunderbird. as much as some don't want to admit on here, looks absolutely do count, and if you get a bass that looks more at home with an 80's hairband than madonna, you're probably not going to get the gig.
 
#4
LuckySeven77 said:
Hey Guys, I'm getting a new bass soon, and was wondering about the shapes thing. Like some people say that Explorer, or V-Basses are only for like metal and like different shapes are only for certain genre, so My question is: can one use a maybe... a Z shaped bass to play stuff like pop, funk or maybe rock and not get laughed at, or should one stick to the "specific genres" of the bass? I'm getting my first Bass soon and would really appreciate comments. Thanks!
( I'm planning to get a ltd Ex104, or a ltd viper 104, but i'll be playing mostly pop and rock.)
Click to expand...

The "This shape or that shape is only for this style or that" is complete rubbish I think :)
Unfortunately it is sometimes the case that those in charge of hiring musicians think differently....
But then again ,if the playing of a certain player convinces that often seems to win over the shape concern of a bass...
I'd first of all and only really look at how a bass balances and feels when you "wear "it and, of course how it sounds.
 
#5
But I'm sure certain shapes are more likely to come with certain pickups... for one, most of the "metal' shaped basses I've seen come with a pair of humbuckers. So if it isn't the sound you're looking for, you'll have to search hard for a Z with the electronics and pickups you want.

Anyway, personally I don't really give a damn about the shape. I would use my bass anywhere as long as the sound fits. I'm aware that there're places that'll frown on it, but on the other hand, at the moment none of the gigs I'm going to are high profile enough to make me put down my favourite bass just because it doesn't look right.
 
#6
JimmyM said:
about the only funny shaped bass you would be able to get away with in pop music without being laughed at is the gibson thunderbird. as much as some don't want to admit on here, looks absolutely do count, and if you get a bass that looks more at home with an 80's hairband than madonna, you're probably not going to get the gig.
Click to expand...

Righto. Moreover, brands count too. They shouldn't, but they do. So get yourself a fender if you want to be safe, shapewise and brandwise.
 
#7
well regardless of those who think body shape means nothing, i can assure you that in the world of working musicians, people listen with their eyes, and righteous indignation will never change that. so if you can only get one, i suggest a more conservative looking bass to start with, and maybe later on you can get a wild looking one as a second bass. totally up to you, though. but don't come crying to me if you lose gigs because your bass looks completely out of place ;)
 
#9
Don't overthink about it, its just your first bass so eventually you will get another one :)

I think Nic. made a good point, before thinking about the shape maybe you shoud wory about knowing what pickups are and what kind of sound you prefer so then you can choose a "shape" that comes with that sound.
Cheers!

Nic. said:
But I'm sure certain shapes are more likely to come with certain pickups... for one, most of the "metal' shaped basses I've seen come with a pair of humbuckers. So if it isn't the sound you're looking for, you'll have to search hard for a Z with the electronics and pickups you want.
Click to expand...
 
#10
LuckySeven77 said:
Ok Thanks people, acually, i was thinking of the Thunderbird, or the Explorer. Are Vipers( SG style) considered "metal?
Click to expand...

An Explorer says Metal or 80s rock, a T bird can do eveything well (& fit in) except Jazz & Slap (that that you can't on one but better choices are out there).

However the bottom line is you will judged by your personal look & attitude, then your playing, then your bass.

If your a gigging bass player you should own several different basses for different gigs anyway. Bring the appropriate bass and a minimal rig.
 
#12
JimmyM said:
well regardless of those who think body shape means nothing, i can assure you that in the world of working musicians, people listen with their eyes, and righteous indignation will never change that. so if you can only get one, i suggest a more conservative looking bass to start with, and maybe later on you can get a wild looking one as a second bass. totally up to you, though. but don't come crying to me if you lose gigs because your bass looks completely out of place ;)
Click to expand...

A very BIG +1. Very well said.
 

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