Beginner bass recommendation

[bass15]

Hi guys. I'm new here. I've been playing guitar for 8+ years, mostly blues and rock. Lately I've been listening a lot of Jamiroquai, and It makes me really want to learn the bass lol.

So what's the best sub-$500 bass out there? If possible, I would like a 5 stringer because I think it looks cool (lol). Also, I'm into classic looks (jazz bass, precision).
How about yamaha, schecter or cort? are they good? I'm also interested on the squire classic vibe, as I know their guitar is really exceptional for the price, but looks like they don't make a 5 string bass.

Also, any recommendation for a good practice bass amp?

THanks!

 

[mokkat]

the new Squier VM Precision 5 string is the source of my GAS at the moment.

 

[Gorn]

Before you go spending money on something fancy, get a Squier jazz 5 and learn to play like a bass player rather than a guitar player who also plays bass.

 

[j1n]

Yamaha, Schecter, and Cort are all quality instruments and would serve you well. You have a lot of choices in the under $500 range. The Yamahas and Schecters, IMO, aren't going to give you much of a classic vibe. Maybe check out the lower priced Fendar products (Squire)... they have a fairly nice jazz bass in a 5 string.

 

[ben23c]

Vintage modified jazz bass. Can't recommend it enough.

 

[MrWalker]

Yamaha or Squier.
If you can find an MTD second hand, like the Grendel, go for it. A superb bass that's not valued the way it deserves.

 

[LakeEffect]

I think these are GREAT values for a 5-string - Schecter Diamond P-5 Custom. http://www.musiciansfriend.com/bass...mond-p-custom-5-5-string-electric-bass-guitar

Probably could find one sub or around $500 with all the holiday deals that will be popping up in the coming months.

Should mention - this is 35in scale. Scale length is something you will likely need to "try on for size".

 

[LowEndOperative]

the new Squier VM Precision 5 string is the source of my GAS at the moment.

Ditto. OP, this is the one.

 

[Maxdusty]

For your price range, you can do better than a Squier, you can get a used Fender five string. A made in Mexico Fender is higher than quality than a Squier.
Pick up a used MIM Fender Jazz bass V.

Here's a red one at GC for $374.. It would only cost $25 to get it shipped to you.
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or here's a white Fender for $299- also about $25 shipping.
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Nothing wrong of course with a Squier V, I have one myself and happy with it but if you can buy a MIM Fender why not?

 

[smcd]

I hate to be "that guy", but if you plug the word "beginner" into the advanced search tool - searching thread titles only, you'll find 24 threads on this exact subject in 2013 alone.



Here.

 

[frankieC]

$165.00, brand new, and the woods the bass is made of are worth more than that.
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[MrWalker]

I hate to be "that guy", but if you plug the word "beginner" into the advanced search tool - searching thread titles only, you'll find 24 threads on this exact subject in 2013 alone.



Here.

In all of 2013, only 24???
I've seen three... just today
Means there should be closer to 2400 than 24, in 2013 alone

Peace

 

[dougjwray]

$165.00, brand new, and the woods the bass is made of are worth more than that.
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This ^
You beat me to it!