Hi guys, i'm getting a new bass but i need opinions on my different options. These options are: Fender Player Jaguar Fender MxStd Dimension (used) Squier Short Scale Jaguar Squier Classic Vibe Jazz Bass (2019) Epiphone EB-3 Sterling Ray4 Which one would you recommend? I'm more used to the feel of a Fender but the others also seem like good options. Thanks.
You will probably get a thumbs-up for every one of your choices given enough time... I like the Squier Classic Vibe Jazz - I played a few of them and they were all really, really nice for the price point.
Those basses are kind of all over the place, including a couple of short scale basses. I suggest you go to a shop and try the basses out for yourself. NO ONE can tell you what will feel and sound right for YOU. Good luck and happy hunting!
I see in your profile you have an affinity PJ. If you like the PJ, just wanting an upgrade- get the player Jaguar. If you want to add a different tone- get the Squier Jazz or MM Sterling, whichever bass tone appeals to you more. but that’s a great short list, I don’t see a lemon in the bunch
I chose jazz based on my own personal preferences but knowing the kind of music you like to play helps with this sort of thing. Can you tell us a bit about the music or players you like to play/listen to.
My band plays a bit of everything. Mainly jazz and punk rock. Players i like to play... I listen and play a lot of Peter Hook basslines.
if you have any demo-playing experience with the axes on your list = you should know what you prefer, right?
Playing now: A Squier PJ Waiting: I don't know. I am in love with the P+J configuration and I would have no problem with having a better quality bass with the same configuration, but I also want to try and experiment with new things. I really like the deep tone of EB's, the versatility of PJs and I love the thick and powerful tone of Stingrays. It is a very difficult decision.
I keep a 4 and 5 Warwick $$ around bc MM in the neck is thicker and tames the traditional Ray trebly jank. MM+J is one of my faves, I prefer it to PJ bc there’s just more there if you can switch the MM from parallel / series. Kicking both MMs to single is my essential punk deal.
It’s difficult if not impossible to choose a bass for someone else. But I do own both a VM Jazz and a pair of SS Jags. I gig them all the time, choosing them over more expensive options in my collection. Properly set up with strings of your liking you can’t go wrong with either.