Staying with my aunt was has an apartment in southeastern Manhatten. Any bass related or just plain good places to hit?
Honestly, there's a zillion places to go. Just depends on your interests. Bass-related: 48th St. in Manhattan is a shadow of its former self, but still features a couple music stores. Also, Sadowsky's shop and showroom is just over the 59th St. bridge. I've never been there, but I will definitely visit the next time I'm in the city.
If you're into jazz, check out: 55 Bar Village Vanguard The Kitano Birdland The Bluenote Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola Smalls Iridium There's plenty more on this list: http://bigapplejazz.com/nycjazzclubs.html
I love visiting NYC. A couple of things to enhance your visit: avoid tourist traps like Times Square use the subway, don't be afraid of it