Help in choosing first bass

[dbsfgyd1]

currently buying my first bass, thoughts on these options?

I can’t answer which one is the best for you, but I can make a suggestion. If you are going to buy an enter level bass, buy a used one. The depreciation when buying an entry level bass is astounding, and keeping in mind of an upgrade down the road, what you will get back out of it will be disappointing.

So the smart money is to let somebody else take the depreciation hit. Lot of entry level instruments for sale by people that thought it would be fun, but found out it was work instead, for pennies on the dollar.

The other thing about buying gently used is for the same amount of a new entry level bass at retail prices, you can get a higher quality instrument, one that will retain more of your purchase price when you go to sell it.

So, best wishes on your hunt. Your bass is out there!

 

[definenredefine]

do what I did when I chose my first bass at age 12... just get the one that looks the coolest

I unironically think this is sound advice. I would also echo everyone who said to buy used, for the same reason - more bass for your buck.

I'll also echo everyone who said try before you buy - feel is very important. My first bass had strings that were way too high - not pleasant to play. You won't want to play a bass that doesn't feel right.

The only thing I would add is spend time listening to your favorite groups/artists in the genres you mentioned (sorry, I'm not familiar with them.) Make a note of who has your favorite bass tones, then try to find out what equipment they use. It's true that the bass is only part of that, but it's a pretty big part of it, and you can work on amps, cabs, etc later.

I voted for the Bacchus because I love jazz basses in both feel and tone, and I've been very impressed with what I've seen from them. Plus, at that price, assuming the electronics work properly and the neck is straight, seems like a steal.

Best of luck on your search, and welcome!

 

[umefie]

So the smart money is to let somebody else take the depreciation hit. Lot of entry level instruments for sale by people that thought it would be fun, but found out it was work instead, for pennies on the dollar.

this is actually pretty logical thanks!

 

[umefie]

I'll also echo everyone who said try before you buy - feel is very important. My first bass had strings that were way too high - not pleasant to play. You won't want to play a bass that doesn't feel right.

I think my problem is gonna be with testing all these basses is that I maybe I won't be tell whether or not the action is bad and the strings are so old or the guitar is just bad.
(can't determine whether it's just needs a setup or a bad guitar basically)

 

[Bass V]

I think my problem is gonna be with testing all these basses is that I maybe I won't be tell whether or not the action is bad and the strings are so old or the guitar is just bad.
(can't determine whether it's just needs a setup or a bad guitar basically)

solve those issues and more by finding a used Samick B-11 for $100 or new in a pax for $200. they're fine.
Silvertone Black Bass Guitar w Strap SSLB-11 / BLK | eBay

 

[definenredefine]

I think my problem is gonna be with testing all these basses is that I maybe I won't be tell whether or not the action is bad and the strings are so old or the guitar is just bad.
(can't determine whether it's just needs a setup or a bad guitar basically)

I didn't know, either; I just hated how high the strings were. In most cases, as I now know, it usually just means the bass needs a setup. But this is where it's good to have someone with you that can help make that determination.

 

[umefie]

update: finally got the bacchus. tested it out. it's pretty good. didn't find any cons with it except that it's actually heavy. didn't expect it to be 10pounds. other than that it's pretty worth for 277$

 

[Malak the Mad]

update: finally got the bacchus. tested it out. it's pretty good. didn't find any cons with it except that it's actually heavy. didn't expect it to be 10pounds. other than that it's pretty worth for 277$

Great! Just so you know, one of the oldest rules here on TalkBass is "Pictures...or it didn't happen!"

 

[umefie]

sure!

 

[definenredefine]

sure!
View attachment 4923364

Very nice!

 

[Malak the Mad]

sure!
View attachment 4923364

Very cool!

As for the weight, a wide, 3-inch/76mm strap might be able to help...that and a strong back!

 

[Malak the Mad]

I found a demo for the Bacchus Glay:Jiro.



I took some classes in TV Production as a youngster and I have some minor gripes notes, doubly-so for anyone thinking about shooting their own demos;

1. Audio balance. Strike a better balance between your vocal mic and the mic recording your bass. If that means recording them to separate tracks, then editing them together in post-production, learn how to do it.
   
2. No unnecessary "thumpin' and bumpin'". No, I'm not talking about playing slap-style. When your bass is recording live and it's mic is hot, don't bump the strings or body when you're talking and not playing. It distracts from what you're saying.
   
3. Mic cord discipline. Either run the cord under the back of your shirt or clip it to your shirts collar or back. This keeps the cord from interfering with your playing AND stops it from becoming a visual distraction for the viewers. Also, it looks sloppy.
   
4. In an audio/visual medium, what people do and don't see and hear matters!

[A-V NERD GRIPE SESSION/]