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First Time Buyer

K

Krayfish

Jan 2, 2009
3
0
#1
Hello All,

So I am looking to purchase my first bass guitar. I have been wanting to buy one for a long time and am finally taking the plunge. I have read quite a bit of material online about the bass in general but am still a total newbie. I am looking to get a package deal whereas I am a college student and am on a budget.

Basically, I am wondering if anyone has some advice for me, just anything in general that would be helpful. I am looking at this package but am not sure if it is a rip off or what. I would very much appreciate an opinion. Invalid Link Removed

Thank you very much
 
#2
Krayfish,
My advice to you is to have a friend who knows a bit about this stuff, or the folks here on TB, help you pick something up off of Craig's list. I know buying new will give you that warm, fuzy warantied feeling, but buying used will get you a MUCH better instrument and amp for your money.

Good luck. Have fun :bassist:
 
#5
PSPookie said:
Krayfish,
My advice to you is to have a friend who knows a bit about this stuff, or the folks here on TB, help you pick something up off of Craig's list. I know buying new will give you that warm, fuzy warantied feeling, but buying used will get you a MUCH better instrument and amp for your money.

Good luck. Have fun :bassist:
Click to expand...

but used is also usually the best option:smug:
 
#11
You really need to go to a store and just play around. Best would be to have someone with knowledge if possible.

Chances are, even if you never played before, something is going to hit you as what you want. Take your time and try out a whole bunch of different basses, even high end stuff.

You'll find one or two that speak to you and you can go from there, exploring quality, used, etc. If you buy blindly or based on recommendations or looks (Les Paul in this case), you might find that you don't like it all. If you aren't happy or comfortable, you'll never play.

The other problem with packages is you usually outgrow the amp quickly.
 
#12
Used is generally a good option, but most dealers offer 1 year of adjustments on stuff they sell. I'd advise against most Gibson/Epiphone basses. Their body shapes work quite well on guitars, but the bass necks are so long that you end up having to deal with "neck dive" which is when you strap the bass on and the headstock wants to nose dive towards the floor. This forces you to really grip the bass neck and takes away from your ability to really move around fluidly.
 

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