Difference between basses?

[sleepyme666]

I bought an extremely cheap no name bass for $70 a few weeks ago. I just wanted something to play on to see if bass was something I'd be interested in. Now that I'm pretty sure it's something I'd like to keep playing, I'd like to start saving up to get something better. I'm wondering what are the differences between a really cheap bass and one that costs at least $300 or more? I was thinking of getting the next one maybe on a $300-500 budget.

 

[JACink]

Up to a certain point, the increase in price is usually related to an increase in quality, such as better hardware, different woods, better workmanship etc.

However, it is possible to find good and bad in all price points, as it is all about personal preference.

I have some really cheap basses that I absolutely love, and have had/tried others at a much higher price range that I just didn't like. I have also come accross amazing basses at a higher price point that make you drool, and others that make you wonder where the price is coming from.

You talk of a couple of hundred more that $70, let's say <$300, that is the a really low price point for a bass, but it doesn't mean you can't find something for that price that will be great. My recommendation would be to look at used basses around that price, trying as many as you can until you find the one that you really like, but keep on saving as you go, and your budget will increase giving you far more options to choose from.

In the <$300 range I have come accross some really nice basses from Squier, Yamaha and Ibanez, but again, that is just my personal taste, others will like something completely different. I also own 4x Harley Benton basses, all of which were less than 300 new, and they are pretty decent (IMO) but I have tried other Harley Bentons at the same price level (or more) which I simply didn't get on with.

The first step is to find out exactly what you want to improve on your current bass, and take it from there.

 

[biguglyman]

Keep an eye on your local Craigslist for good used deals. I got a Squier that I love and would have no qualms about playing gigs with for $120. Learn how to do your own setup too. This will save you $$$ and give you the perspective to look at a used bass and know whether a few adjustments will turn it into a playa.

 

[tpaul]

Lots of used bass deals out there at your price point. Squier, Ibanez, Yamaha are the brands I would look at. Check the TB classifieds, eBay and Reverb as well as local shops.

Nothing at all wrong with a $300 bass.

 

[Bass Man Dan]

Here comes the obligatory mention of rondo, but I would encourage you to check out rondomusic.com. They have, IMO, very nice basses at very reasonable prices.

 

[Nephilymbass]

I bought an extremely cheap no name bass for $70 a few weeks ago. I just wanted something to play on to see if bass was something I'd be interested in. Now that I'm pretty sure it's something I'd like to keep playing, I'd like to start saving up to get something better. I'm wondering what are the differences between a really cheap bass and one that costs at least $300 or more? I was thinking of getting the next one maybe on a $300-500 budget.

Should be able to easily find a used made in Mexico fender in that price range.

 

[JACink]

I see that you edited your post to increase the budget, that gives you even more choice. ESP LTD basses are also worth checking out in that range.

Actually, it's worth trying out every bass you can lay your hands on

 

[Reedt2000]

This is a really broad question that it is impossible to give specific answers. Typically the electronics are the weakest point to really cheap instruments. As you step up in price you normally find better quality and more versatile pickups, controls, and preamps (If it is an active bass, one that needs a battery and has the ability to boost and cut frequencies from the bass). Hardware also tends to get heavier as prices rise, so heavier bridges and better quality tuning machines. Then there are woods and finishes. As prices rise you can find bodies made of "better" species of wood (which of course are debatable) more colors and natural finishes like sunbursts. You can even start to see instruments with thin layers of veneer on the top with cool looking grain patterns. The real test is playing the instruments and judging for yourself if you like the feel, sound and looks.

Hope this helps

 

[Bill Whitehurst]

It never hurts to have a better bass.
Here at TB, we seem to always encourage spending.
Don't get in too much of a hurry to upgrade.
The more you play, the more you understand what you do or don't like in a bass.
Try as many as you can.
Also, be aware that while there are plenty of 2-500 dollar basses out there
that a pretty decent, if you keep your eyes open, there are some killer deals
on used stuff just waiting to be found.
You never know, there could be someone near you in a hurry to sell a vintage P bass for bail money.

 

[jd56hawk]

I bought an extremely cheap no name bass for $70 a few weeks ago. I just wanted something to play on to see if bass was something I'd be interested in. Now that I'm pretty sure it's something I'd like to keep playing, I'd like to start saving up to get something better. I'm wondering what are the differences between a really cheap bass and one that costs at least $300 or more? I was thinking of getting the next one maybe on a $300-500 budget.

G&L Kiloton Tribute
If you can go $599, buy this and you just might be set for life!

If not, still some nice stuff you can get for under $500.
Squier Classic Vibe…$399. Best Squier made. Every song I play on a $1,500 jazz bass I can play on this.

Ibanez Talman TMB 300/310
$300. I had no interest in Ibanez until I played one of these.

Of course, nothing more important than trying out 10 or 20 basses yourself to find what's right for you.
I tried out between 50 and 60 basses this year, last year and the year before.
Yeah, I have a lot of spare time.

 

[MarshallLaw]

Epiphone Thunderbird Pros are another fantastic value for $500ish.

 

[Reedt2000]

G&L Kiloton Tribute
If you can go $599, buy this and you just might be set for life!
View attachment 2849563
If not, still some nice stuff you can get for under $500.
Squier Classic Vibe…$399. Best Squier made. Every song I play on a $1,500 jazz bass I can play on this.
View attachment 2849564
Ibanez Talman TMB 300/310
$300. I had no interest in Ibanez until I played one of these.
View attachment 2849565
Of course, nothing more important than trying out 10 or 20 basses yourself to find what's right for you.
I tried out between 50 and 60 basses this year, last year and the year before.
Yeah, I have a lot of spare time.

I bought an import G&L L2500 for $500 used as a back up bass and I am very impressed with the quality, playability, and tone. Ibanez and Yamaha both make good quality instruments at the lower price ranges. Everybody has different tastes so getting your hands on a bass is the real test of whether or not it is right for you.

I will say that I have found the quality control on cheaper basses to fluctuate more than higher end models. That being said even 1k plus basses can be lemons. Best to play them first or at least make sure you have return options.

 

[interp]

You can definitely find very decent basses in the 300-500 range, especially if you take your time and buy used. Setup is always very important. In general, I would rather have a well set up $300 bass than a poorly set up $1000 bass. (Of course, a professional set up shouldn’t cost more than around $100.)

 

[AcridSaint]

My first bass was from Rondo. Nothing against them, but in the $3-500 range I think you can do much better. There are some really great basses in that price range, especially if you're willing to go used. Tons of good older Japanese stuff, for example. If you are buying new, G&L has several Tribute series basses that will fit your price range and are very good.

 

[Mantis Tobaggan]

My first bass was $75. My second bass was $1200. Cheap basses are good for deciding if you like bass. Middle priced basses are kind of meh in my opinion. If you like bass, go for something better than $300 - $500

 

[JACink]

If you like bass, go for something better than $300 - $500

I can't see how something is better or worse only because of the price point, surely it depends on personal preference and the specific instrument?

 

[Mantis Tobaggan]

I can't see how something is better or worse only because of the price point, surely it depends on personal preference and the specific instrument?

I suppose but my experience has been that I have yet to play a $300 - $500 bass that equates to the $1-$2k basses. One could probably get a good used bass in the $500 - $1000 range if they are dilligent and very patient but generally speaking, i have yet to pick up a bass in that price range that compares to the $1 - $2 k range. Just my experience.

 

[MYLOWFREQ]

now that you know you like to play the bass, I'd go to music stores and try as many basses as I can to figure out what type of basses appeal to me the most sound/feel/look wise. then, you can search for one that's affordable. used is good.

 

[Wisebass]

$70

at least $300

Hi sleepyme666

The difference is at least 230 $

I was thinking of getting the next one maybe on a $300-500 budget.

For that money you can get a nice bass (used!!!)

Before you go shopping, try a lot of different stuff first. (go to every shop you know and play everything!!!!)

Find out what you want! You have to love the look. The bass has to feel good in your hands.

And of course a good sound doesn 't hurt (my first point to go for!)

Good hunt!

and may the bass be with you

Wise(b)ass

 

[Mili]

Differences a lot but i suggest if your no name bass is standard and playable and sounds ok, just hang with it. You will understand later what differences are and what's better for you.