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Having a bass & amp as a toy?

Should I be ashamed to have a bass & amp just as a toy?

  • absolutely

  • meh, do what you want

  • not at all

  • Carrots!


Results are only viewable after voting.
Would it be shameful to have a bass & amp (think all in $300) around just for fun once in awhile?

Over the years of owning various gear, I've come to the conclusion that I will never practice or improve, sad but true!

I considered getting an acoustic bass uke, just for plunking around on, but I really like to be able to throw some distortion/OD into the mix sometimes.
I have some great gear but think I'm going to pick up one of those cheap short scale basses for kids and string it up as a piccolo just to noodle on at home. Not something I would gig with but more of a toy just for kicks. Here's one I saw online today for $79.99
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Another idea is an acoustic bass guitar. I didn't know I would love it so much until I owned one. I use it for home practice exclusively. You can also plug in if you want. I feel it makes me play more as I can play anytime without bothering anyone and it's a beautiful instrument. I have a Michael Kelly Dragonfly 4 string. There are all kinds that are available. It is plenty loud enough to play along with loud music on the stereo if desired. It is definitely a good idea to have equipment around to play on when the mood strikes you, whatever it is. I know you said you don't think you will practice or improve, but if you take a few lessons or watch instructional videos online, it would make playing more fun. The same goes for listening to different kinds of music. You clearly have an interest in playing still, so have some things around to be able to play. As others have said, music should bring joy to you.
 
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Reactions: LeftyD
Bass is cheap fun.

I've got buddies into power boats, ice boats, yachts, Porches, Corvettes, Harleys, shooting, fishing, cycling, down hill skiing, golf and aviation who all drop some major coin. OK, I've got a pretty interesting pool of buddies.

My bass pursuit is significantly cash positive. I might also have more fun than they are having. I got lucky, I'm not that wise.
 
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Reactions: Ewo and PWRL
I voted NO and here is my reasoning:

Based on your previous experience, you will want to upgrade to something better because the excuse of "I don't like practicing" will become "I don't like practicing on this setup."

After a bit, you will be like "I would practice more if I had some guitar chord changes as backing tracks to play with but cannot find any. Might as well get a guitar to make my own."

$10,000 and a year later, you will be like "why did I buy that first toy bass and amp when I knew I didn't like to practice."
 
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Reactions: Killed_by_Death
Would it be shameful to have a bass & amp (think all in $300) around just for fun once in awhile?

Over the years of owning various gear, I've come to the conclusion that I will never practice or improve, sad but true!

I considered getting an acoustic bass uke, just for plunking around on, but I really like to be able to throw some distortion/OD into the mix sometimes.

Well you already ackoledge you never practice & improve with what you've got now so why waste $300 for somthing that eventually will end up with the rest of gear you already own not being used enough to justify even having it .

but if you got the space the money & coolest wife ever! sure why not!
Buy two of each if it makes you happy.. :)
 
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Reactions: Killed_by_Death
Would it be shameful to have a bass & amp (think all in $300) around just for fun once in awhile?

Over the years of owning various gear, I've come to the conclusion that I will never practice or improve, sad but true!

I considered getting an acoustic bass uke, just for plunking around on, but I really like to be able to throw some distortion/OD into the mix sometimes.

to the contrary, it would be a shame _not_ to have a few pieces of gear just for your amusement. i say you should buy a small electric bass rig _plus_ a bass uke!
 
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Reactions: Killed_by_Death