Entry level= $700? Really????

[chris stopa]

Can somebody help me figure this out? My "entry level" Ibanez cost me $169 and MSRP is $200. MSRP for the Fender Modern Player Jazz is $699.99. Fender's site says it's an entry level instrument. Several people told me that an "entry level" bass is one you get when you start taking lessons, it doesn't cost a crap load of money and you can gig with it if you want but by the time you start gigging you will have modded it, replaced it or acquired a second better quality bass. Is a $700 bass really an "entry level" bass or is my perception of "entry level" off?

I think you are looking at Fender list price. Retailers sell the Modern Player Jazz bass for $499. If this is too much their Squier brand costs less.

 

[Stumbo]

Can somebody help me figure this out? My "entry level" Ibanez cost me $169 and MSRP is $200. MSRP for the Fender Modern Player Jazz is $699.99. Fender's site says it's an entry level instrument. Several people told me that an "entry level" bass is one you get when you start taking lessons, it doesn't cost a crap load of money and you can gig with it if you want but by the time you start gigging you will have modded it, replaced it or acquired a second better quality bass. Is a $700 bass really an "entry level" bass or is my perception of "entry level" off?

Yeah, that's it.

 

[drewfunk]

People often ask me what they should buy as a beginner bass.

I try to tell them they should spend at least $500 to get a nice bass. I try to tell them if they buy a crappy $200 bass they won't enjoy playing it, and they will get frustrated and quit, and they should save their money and not buy a bass at all. I try to tell them if they buy a nice bass (or guitar) they will really enjoy playing it, it will be easier, and they will have many happy years with it. I try to tell them that the better instrument will retain its value.

They just look at me like I'm a dumbass. I can see them telling me "You want me to drop that much change on a bass and I can't even play yet?" in their mind.

So they go off and buy a $200 corner ornament.

Oh well, keeps the competition at a minimum.

Haaaa.
Seriously, a good setup will make most basses comfortable to play. My main bass is a modded Squier VM. I gig all the time. It plays and sounds fantastic, and i can beat the living hell out of it. I could afford something more expensive, but this fits me perfectly.

 

[Danni Moe]

And the notion that you aren't serious about the artform unless you spend major bucks is just freakin lame thinking. Such weak sauce.

People that are serious about the art form (can) sound great on any bass you hand them.

 

[Batmensch]

And the notion that you aren't serious about the artform unless you spend major bucks is just freakin lame thinking. Such weak sauce.

I think it would be safe to categorize anyone who believes that as both a gear snob AND a sucker.