bass shopping

[stokes]

I'm sure this is a common topic here, but I've recently entered the professional field and want to get a new rig. I could use recommendations on bass brands and models, as well as(and more importantly) shops that I can try them out at.

Thanks,
Stokes

 

[snyderz]

More info. What do you play now? Why is it insufficient? What kind of music do you play? What is your budget?

 

[stokes]

In my current gig, mostly country, with jazz and anything else I can get hired to do on the side. Looking for a good utility rig that can give me a goo thump but have the speed and electronics to play modern fusion on. I don't plan on making a quick purchase, but I want to start searching now.

Any place locally carries fender and gibson as their highest names. I want to branch out and check out the lesser known upscale world of bass craftsmanship. As for budget, I'd probably have a ceiling of around 5k, being that this is an investment for me.

 

[scottbass]

There are countless bass/amp rigs to be had for $5K! If you like Fender basses, check out Sadowsky basses - they are basically Fender done better.

The amp depends so very much on your desired tone and the size of the venues you will be playing. You will obviously spend your amp dollars very differently if you will be playing large venues and outdoor venues than if you will be playing smaller, more intimate clubs.

 

[stokes]

Good deal. Any idea of dealers on the eastern half of the country for sadowsky basses?

And as for an amp, right now I'm not too concerned with that because for my current job I run direct, so it can wait awhile. A pro I work with recommended alembic basses for versatility, but after researching(ok, YouTube surfing) Stanley Clarke seems to be the only one that really makes them sound good. Any thoughts?

 

[SpitfireCWII]

Along with Sadowsky, there is also Lakland. They are more suited for jazz and genres like that I find.

 

[nostatic]

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While Greg doesn't sell Sadowsky, he has other great basses and is a total straight shooter for gear. Not sure how far you are from Blacksburg, but highly recommended:

http://www.rocketmusic.net

As for basses, some starting points:

Sadowsky Guitars
Mike Lull Custom Guitars
WELCOME TO ROSCOE GUITARS HOME PAGE
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Welcome to ValentiBasses.com

and for something completely different:

Rob Allen Guitars | Maker of the Mouse 30, MB-2, Solid 4, Deep 4 and Deep 5

Amps:

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www.bergantino.com
www.aguilaramp.com

 

[stokes]

Thanks nostatic. Blacksburg is about 4hrs, but it looking like every shop of worth is at least that far away, so it's as good as any other place to start. Know of any other shops on that end of the planet I could hit while I'm there?