BEST (NEW) BASS UNDER $300

[Eilif]

I was surprised that no one mentioned the SX yet.

There's also the Xavier and Slick basses sold at GuitarFetish.com

Those are good choices if you're willing to accept the fact that while they might come ready to go, the frets might need attention (edges and leveling). That's a cost and hassle you won't likely incur if you purchase a TMB series Ibanez.

I've owned 3 SX's and none of them were as nice as the TMB100.

 

[TyCobb]

If you have a store around you with multiple brands, go play. Any store with multiple brands should have lots of options at that price range.

The only concern of actually buying new at that price range is that those basses are purposefully built cheap which is why I wouldn't order it online unless you are able to work through a local store if an issue arises. If there's a local store (not guitar center) they should do all the set up for free and have already been vetted (hopefully).

And just because I feel the need even though you said "not used", if you do have a local shop (once again, not guitar center), do check out used in that price range. You can get the best bang for your buck as a lot of $700 basses new now sell for $300 used.

 

[Thwack]

I see it's been mentioned before but if you are looking for a near pro quality P bass for 299, get the Squier Classic Vibe '70's Precision. ...or any other Squier classic vibe series bass. In my opinion and experience they are more comfortable and play even better then the Vintage Modified series which are also quite nice for the money. Good luck - Report back!

 

[sinlapse13]

Look into thunderbirds. The ones I've had were good for everything.

 

[Springman]

Isn't it wonderful that we can have a serious conversation about Quality new basses for under $300. It is a golden age, thank you CNC technology.
I often gig with a Squire CV 70, you could do worse for twice the money, and it looks pro when your at the gig or at an audition. So, I will echo that suggestion.

 

[AcridSaint]

Talman if it's comfortable to you.

Bacchus if you are willing to have it shipped from Japan.

Sterling SUB.

If you absolutely refuse to buy used, look into open box basses to get a little more value.

Not many agree with me, but I have an SX and would probably not buy another.

 

[dbsfgyd1]

Hello! First time poster here. I'm sure this topic has been beat to death, but I wanted to go straight to the best source of info I could think of... I've seen many lists on pages I've otherwise never heard of, so who knows what their real motives are for listing the basses that they've chosen. My only criteria here is that the bass be new, NOT used, and also $300 max. I've bought used basses in the past that ended up having issues and I just want a clean slate, so to speak. The more people that contribute to this list, the easier it is to narrow down my choices, which in turn could help people here that may be in the same predicament... thanks in advance!

My standard reply to questions like this is to take your time, don’t overlook lightly use instruments, especially in this price range. There are lots of basses out there.

 

[jd56hawk]

Hello! First time poster here. I'm sure this topic has been beat to death, but I wanted to go straight to the best source of info I could think of... I've seen many lists on pages I've otherwise never heard of, so who knows what their real motives are for listing the basses that they've chosen. My only criteria here is that the bass be new, NOT used, and also $300 max. I've bought used basses in the past that ended up having issues and I just want a clean slate, so to speak. The more people that contribute to this list, the easier it is to narrow down my choices, which in turn could help people here that may be in the same predicament... thanks in advance!

This might be your lucky day!
I know you said $300 max, but spend a bit more even if you have to skip lunch for a week.

$319 for a new $399 Squier Classic Vibe Jazz bass.
Best Squier Made!
As good as some MIM Fenders!
Believe me, you won't have to do any mods on this one!
Free shipping!
Etc, etc, etc.

Fender® Squier Classic Vibe '60s 4 String Electric Jazz Bass Guitar Inca Silver | eBay

 

[5teven5trummer]

none of these basses are quality basses all are kinda crappy with poopie sound

Those are good choices if you're willing to accept the fact that while they might come ready to go, the frets might need attention (edges and leveling). That's a cost and hassle you won't likely incur if you purchase a TMB series Ibanez.

I've owned 3 SX's and none of them were as nice as the TMB100.

Just watched vids on TMB. Looks really cool.

 

[DonaldR]

8 months ago I bought a Squier Vintage Modified Jazz 5 as a platform for mods. I have tried a few and found an exceptional one that I don't think I will mod anytime soon (until something breaks at least )
Yamaha TRBX304 is really great for just a bit over $300. Good craftsmanship and hardware.
I also suggest to check-out used basses locally, very good deal to be find if you are patient.

 

[Solarmist]

For $50 more - check out these Ibby SR300, and the new colors they come in. Active 3-band EQ, and Ibanez QC.
Ibanez SR300E - Metallic Purple Sunburst

 

[Frampton]

Squire is a nice bass for $300. Whatever you get, be sure to try it before you buy it. You're not going to get the same QC on a $300 Squire as you will on a $1,300 American Standard.

 

[slobake]

Because used basses tend to be a crapshoot... I bought a nice Peavey Forum bass a while back and I got it to my tech and he said the neck was permanently slightly bowed, and the only way I could counter that was to use super light gauge strings, so needless to say I sold it and now I’m just looking to buy something brand new.

I hear you. My first bass was a used MIM Precision with a lot of issues. Got rid of it and bought a new bass. Wish I had the MIM now that I know how to fix it.
A permanently bowed neck is another issue. Maybe bring someone with experience that you trust with you.

 

[slobake]

Squire is a nice bass for $300. Whatever you get, be sure to try it before you buy it. You're not going to get the same QC on a $300 Squire as you will on a $1,300 American Standard.

Does Fender still make Am Std's ?

 

[wohnjalker]

I hear you. My first bass was a used MIM Precision with a lot of issues. Got rid of it and bought a new bass. Wish I had the MIM now that I know how to fix it.
A permanently bowed neck is another issue. Maybe bring someone with experience that you trust with you.

The struggle is real lol

 

[slobake]

The struggle is real lol

The MIM was a beat up black Precision. It was naturally road worn. If I had it now I would put new pickups and a faded red tort pick guard.

 

[GreyBeard]

The Talmans by Ibanez are a really good value. I was really impressed by both the 100 and the 300.

I played a Talman about a month ago. I was blown away at the quality of this.

Ibanez Talman Bass - Ivory

 

[Uncle Hanky]

I'll echo:

Ibanez
Squier
Yamaha
SX
SUB.

 

[alaskaleftybass]

Welcome to TB. You're going to find that the posters heavily favor Fender products, including Squires. Myself, I love Ibanez products. They have fast low necks, hot-rodded pickups, and come ready to rock hard out of the box after a setup. But then the Squires are great too.

Rondo music makes some good basses. If you don't mind used look through the TB classifieds, you might find some gems there. Good luck!

 

[Fender_Bender]

I’ll add the Cort brand in there too. They are a huge outfit and make many basses that other companies put their names on.