Beginner Bass Info

[mikasaka]

Hey all,

I'm just wondering if anyone could help me out a bit. I origionally started playing guitar around 5 months ago, however, now I get the feeling I'd be better off playing a bass guitar. Don't ask me why, because I possibly couldn't answer, its more of a gut feeling.

Basically, I'm looking for a descent starters bass guitar with a decent amp and any other equipment I may need. I'm a bit of a JRock fan, and would preferably like a bass to sound something like Reita's from a band called The GazettE.
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Kst5oVCzDoA&feature=related
Link to him playing if you not heard of him before. Just like the overall sound of his bass and love his play style, my main influence for wanting to play the bass guitar.

So yeah, if you know of any descent bass guitars just for personal use that will last for some time thats great. Also, approximately, how long would it take to get to the performance level on a bass guitar? I'd like to hopefully join a band one of the days

My limit for the guitar would probably be somewhere around £300 mark, as for amp and cabinet, I have no idea. I just want a bass with a nice tone

I look forward to hearing a reply
All the best,
Mika

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For those of you that can't get onto youtube, or just don't want to... here are pics I found.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/jrocknyc/1st/esp2006-gazette-b.jpg
http://www.nautiljon.com/images/cli...berty_six_guns_tour_final_at_budokan-live.png

 

[mikasaka]

bump

 

[thecapm]

Squiers are very decent beginner basses. If you're willing to do some tweaking, it's a fantastic deal for the price.
Link Removed

Edit: This one is more similar to the one in the first pic.

 

[RickenBoogie]

As a starter, I'd reccomend shopping wisely, and find something that you like the feel of, as well as all the rest. Spend your money on as good a bass as you can afford, skimp a bit on the amp for now, all you need is something to hear yourself. Later on, when you're ready, you can upgrade your amp, but keep your bass. Amps come and go, and we're always swapping, trading, selling, you name it, they're just amps. A bass guitar, otoh, is much more personal. We get emotionally attatched to them, for good reason. Go to as many music stores as you can, try out as many basses as you can, and buy the one that speaks to you. Good luck, and welcome to the bottom.

 

[mikasaka]

I'm thinking of trying out a Warwick Rockbass, if I can find a dealer within the UK that is. I heard they have a nice punchy tone.

What you think of them?