Know nothing about bass, eager to play, need help getting started

[BluesMan1]

Not a seasoned bass player by any definition of the word, but here's some stuff that really helped me:

1) Practicing every day.
2) Learning to play scales in different positions on the fretboard.
3) Forming chords from scales.
4) Practicing unplugged.
5) Getting used to playing standing up.

1 may seem a challenge some days, but keeping at it is rewarding in the long run.
2 and 3 really help in learning the notes on the fret board.
4 gives you a sense of tone.
5 builds your endurance IMO. It's definitely harder than playing sitting down.

Besides that explore the internet. There's so much stuff out there; videos, entire web-sites, bass tabs, etc. And above all listen to as much music as you can.

My 2 cents.

 

[chadhargis]

I was in your shoes a year ago.

I always loved bass, but never believed I could learn to play an instrument. The only leg up I had on you was being a singer. I knew basic music theory (scales, intervals, octaves, etc) that I'd picked up singing in my church choir.

I got a bass knowing nothing about what I was buying. I bought what felt good to me. I bought a cheapo amp. I took a few lessons from a guy who got me started and studied form Studybass.com as well.

A few weeks went by, and I had the opportunity to study under Adam Nitti, and I took a few lessons from him. I lost my job shortly after and went back to a self study regimen. I got flooded by the big Nashville flood, but after I got back on my feet I met up with a local TalkBass member and started working with him.

I can't recommend having a good teacher enough. If for no other reason than the motivation to make you work on the things you know you need to learn but don't really excite you. Reading music is that skill for me. I HATE trying to read. I'm an ear player, and reading music gives me a splitting headache, but I know I need to develop the skill to give myself the best shot of landing a gig. If not for my teacher giving me assignments, I'd be blasting out cool bass lines from my favorite tunes....picking them out by ear.

My immediate goal is to get to a point where I know the fretboard well enough that my brain can connect the notes on a page to the neck of the bass.

One of the things you'll discover is you will have "breakthroughs". Something that you were struggling with will suddenly become second nature as your brain makes the connection. Early in your development, these will come rapidly, but I found that after playing for about six months or so, I felt stalled, as if I weren't making any progress. When that happens, don't give up.

A great player who had been playing over 20 years one told me, "I got 95% as good as I am now in about 5 years. The other 95% took 15 years."

The more you learn the more advanced the next level of learning becomes.

If you're like me, and love the bass, and get that feeling in the pit of your stomach when you're locked in on a sweet groove with your fingers hitting all the right notes that gives you a rush like no drug you've ever had, then you'll do fine.

Most important thing to remember is HAVE FUN!

I'm working on something today that isn't much fun, but I take a break every now and then to play something familiar that I enjoy playing, then get back to work.

 

[Batmensch]

Takt- SX is a Chinese made bass sold here in the US by Rondomusic.com. They are primarily cheap (REALLY cheap) copies of (mostly) Fender basses. Although really cheap, they are considered by fans to be a decent bass. The only thing is, they MAY (or may not) require some work to get them up to snuff, it can be hit or miss. For the moment, as you are a complete beginner, I would stay away from SX basses until you ge a bit more understanding of what it takes to turn them into a good instrument. But, at some point, after you gain some knowledge, an SX might be a worthwhile instrument toook at. On these boards, do a search for "Essex" as the search engine won't recognize a two letter word, and you'll find all the info you could want on SX's.

 

[bassbenj]

Since nobody has mentioned it already, either get yourself a teacher (ideal) or, if you can't afford or schedule one, go to www.studybass.com. That will get you started.

Remember that learning songs is half of learning to play bass (the fun half). The other half is learning scales, chords, etc. Take time to do both.

As far as equipment goes, look for used gear. You may be able to score a usable starter amp and a used Epiphone Thunderbird within your budget rather than spending the $400 on a brand new starter kit. The Talkbass classifieds, Craigslist and ebay are places to look. But also have an open mind to other brands of basses, like a squier or SX.

Welcome and have fun!

Welcome to the world of bass! Bass is probably THE most powerful instrument in a band though usually not appreciated (until it stops playing!)

Since you know nothing about bass here is how you can know all about bass for free: http://wheatsbassbook.com/

The internet is your bass friend! BUT, I strongly URGE you to take at least a few lessons. If you want to learn ho to do something, the fastest and easiest way is to find someone who already knows how and have them show you! A teacher can spot your bad habits and direct you in proper technique in a few moments that could take months or years of fooling around at random by yourself. Once you get the basics down it's then mostly about practice and experience. At that point you can decide if you want to continue lessons or just put in the time on your own.

WELCOME!

 

[Slackerprince]

I think there are easier to play basses than the Thunderbird, but it you're in love, go for it.
I think a Jazz would be a nice fit, or some other slim neck bass.

S

 

[RBX4]

That Epiphone is a great starter!

 

[JoshB8116]

Definately get an Epiphone T-Bird.

I have one and i absolutely adore it. Great pick ups, beautifully thin neck and plays like a dream.

I've currently got it set up with thicker gauge strings (115-something, i cant remember) and dropped down to C it sounds awesome!

The perfect beginner bass for you to learn some SOAD songs.

 

[LiamPodmore]

Also, another big step in learning you have already taken, by joining TB.

Massive +1 to this. I joined TB In november 2010 (if i remember correctly) and since then i've learnt quite a lot, including how to do my own setups, which saves me a hell of a lot of money.

Liam

 

[ninerfan]

Also, another big step in learning and emptying your wallet you have already taken, by joining TB.

fixed

 

[Takt]

I would definitely take at least a few lessons with an instructor. Being able to get feedback and communication is not something you can do with online lessons. Plus, a lot of the time you won't know if you are doing a drill correctly without a "pro" there to help correct you early in the process. If you do things right from the beginning, you won't pick up bad habits.

I have only been playing 6 mos, and took lessons for 3 before I had to quit due to a job layoff. I will resume as soon as I can, but I can attest learning the basics from an instructor has made it MUCH easier to pick up things on my own.

Good luck, and I hope you enjoy playing as much as I do.

For instructions I'll only be free from work and school in the next few months, which means I'll have June to buy the instruments in, as well as hire a tutor. I understand the significance of a tutor though, and thank you for the feedback.

I'm a beginner as well so here are some tips that helped me.
1.get a teacher, its really helps
2. Learn the notes on the neck, start on one string at a time.
3.you don't have to learn music theory, but the more you know the better.
4.learn at least the major scale and minor scale.
5.get a drum machine

A drum machine just means something that can keep a metronome?
I use a lot of audio editing and mixing software due to the nature of my job so I guess laying down a simple drum pattern to play along to isn't a problem if that's what you mean.
Again, I understand I have to get acquainted with the instrument first with a teacher to guide me.

+1 on Ferniffs advice re: scales

I always run through the major Ionian scale, pentatonics, and blues scales as a warm up.

This is a useful resource - http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=388219

Also, for some info/pics on the Epi T-Bird, go here - http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=388219

Thank you!

Get a used copy of Teach Me Bass Guitar By Roy Vogt. It will cost about $100 or so. Go through all the lessons and get them down pat. Then you can sell it and get your money back.

It may take awhile to find a copy. It took me about 6 months to. It also took about 6 months to go through. It took a day or so to sell the copy on ebay and get all my money back. It's rare but worth the wait.

That makes sense, I'll keep an eye out for it on eBay.

Not a seasoned bass player by any definition of the word, but here's some stuff that really helped me:

1) Practicing every day.
2) Learning to play scales in different positions on the fretboard.
3) Forming chords from scales.
4) Practicing unplugged.
5) Getting used to playing standing up.

1 may seem a challenge some days, but keeping at it is rewarding in the long run.
2 and 3 really help in learning the notes on the fret board.
4 gives you a sense of tone.
5 builds your endurance IMO. It's definitely harder than playing sitting down.

Besides that explore the internet. There's so much stuff out there; videos, entire web-sites, bass tabs, etc. And above all listen to as much music as you can.

My 2 cents.

I was in your shoes a year ago.

I always loved bass, but never believed I could learn to play an instrument. The only leg up I had on you was being a singer. I knew basic music theory (scales, intervals, octaves, etc) that I'd picked up singing in my church choir.

I got a bass knowing nothing about what I was buying. I bought what felt good to me. I bought a cheapo amp. I took a few lessons from a guy who got me started and studied form Studybass.com as well.

A few weeks went by, and I had the opportunity to study under Adam Nitti, and I took a few lessons from him. I lost my job shortly after and went back to a self study regimen. I got flooded by the big Nashville flood, but after I got back on my feet I met up with a local TalkBass member and started working with him.

I can't recommend having a good teacher enough. If for no other reason than the motivation to make you work on the things you know you need to learn but don't really excite you. Reading music is that skill for me. I HATE trying to read. I'm an ear player, and reading music gives me a splitting headache, but I know I need to develop the skill to give myself the best shot of landing a gig. If not for my teacher giving me assignments, I'd be blasting out cool bass lines from my favorite tunes....picking them out by ear.

My immediate goal is to get to a point where I know the fretboard well enough that my brain can connect the notes on a page to the neck of the bass.

One of the things you'll discover is you will have "breakthroughs". Something that you were struggling with will suddenly become second nature as your brain makes the connection. Early in your development, these will come rapidly, but I found that after playing for about six months or so, I felt stalled, as if I weren't making any progress. When that happens, don't give up.

A great player who had been playing over 20 years one told me, "I got 95% as good as I am now in about 5 years. The other 95% took 15 years."

The more you learn the more advanced the next level of learning becomes.

If you're like me, and love the bass, and get that feeling in the pit of your stomach when you're locked in on a sweet groove with your fingers hitting all the right notes that gives you a rush like no drug you've ever had, then you'll do fine.

Most important thing to remember is HAVE FUN!

I'm working on something today that isn't much fun, but I take a break every now and then to play something familiar that I enjoy playing, then get back to work.

Wow thanks, nice to hear how you got set up.
I definitely know what you're talking about when it comes to having an epiphany on the notes and suddenly knowing how to play a certain thing you weren't able to before.

Takt- SX is a Chinese made bass sold here in the US by Rondomusic.com. They are primarily cheap (REALLY cheap) copies of (mostly) Fender basses. Although really cheap, they are considered by fans to be a decent bass. The only thing is, they MAY (or may not) require some work to get them up to snuff, it can be hit or miss. For the moment, as you are a complete beginner, I would stay away from SX basses until you ge a bit more understanding of what it takes to turn them into a good instrument. But, at some point, after you gain some knowledge, an SX might be a worthwhile instrument toook at. On these boards, do a search for "Essex" as the search engine won't recognize a two letter word, and you'll find all the info you could want on SX's.

This probably means I'll have to get an Epi T-bird first to start off with and as I progress (not that I'll grow out of it for quite a while) I could invest in an SX if necessary.
Thanks for the info.

Welcome to the world of bass! Bass is probably THE most powerful instrument in a band though usually not appreciated (until it stops playing!)

Completely.

Since you know nothing about bass here is how you can know all about bass for free: http://wheatsbassbook.com/

Thanks! I'll take a look at that too once I buy my bass.

The internet is your bass friend! BUT, I strongly URGE you to take at least a few lessons. If you want to learn ho to do something, the fastest and easiest way is to find someone who already knows how and have them show you! A teacher can spot your bad habits and direct you in proper technique in a few moments that could take months or years of fooling around at random by yourself. Once you get the basics down it's then mostly about practice and experience. At that point you can decide if you want to continue lessons or just put in the time on your own.

WELCOME!

Thanks!

I think there are easier to play basses than the Thunderbird, but it you're in love, go for it.
I think a Jazz would be a nice fit, or some other slim neck bass.

S

If it sounds anything like Shavo's T-bird does, I'm in.

fixed

hahaha well, all hobbies are expensive, aren't they?

That Epiphone is a great starter!

Definately get an Epiphone T-Bird.

I have one and i absolutely adore it. Great pick ups, beautifully thin neck and plays like a dream.

I've currently got it set up with thicker gauge strings (115-something, i cant remember) and dropped down to C it sounds awesome!

The perfect beginner bass for you to learn some SOAD songs.

Massive +1 to this. I joined TB In november 2010 (if i remember correctly) and since then i've learnt quite a lot, including how to do my own setups, which saves me a hell of a lot of money.

Liam

I guess the general consensus is set on a few things:

• Epiphone T-bird (I'll buy new, my budget expands in the coming months)
• KORG Pandora (the best headphone amp I could find within a reasonable price bracket)
• Hiring a tutor, which I'll be able to do and take lessons throughout the second half of the year.

How does that sound, everyone?

 

[Takt]

I called five music stores in the area, three of which don't deal in Gibson guitars and two who say they only have electric guitars but not basses.
I'll look around some more but I seriously doubt I'll be able to find an Epi T-bird.
Any alternatives from Ibanez and Yamaha?

 

[aerodyne1]

And don't play through your brothers guitar amp. You'll blow the speaker and he'll be pissed!

 

[Takt]

And don't play through your brothers guitar amp. You'll blow the speaker and he'll be pissed!

Haha yeah I suppose. Basses have a different amplifier/speaker cabinet combo right?
And what alternatives do you guys suggest (apart from Gibson, probably Ibanez or Yamaha) that would sound as close as possible to Shavo's T-bird?

 

[Legattabass]

Haha yeah I suppose. Basses have a different amplifier/speaker cabinet combo right?
And what alternatives do you guys suggest (apart from Gibson, probably Ibanez or Yamaha) that would sound as close as possible to Shavo's T-bird?

I'm told that Precision basses have a comperable tone to the thunderbird. Both are praised for "sitting in the mix" and both are accused of being "1 trick ponies."

I have a MiM (made in Mexico) P Bass, from Fender. However, Fender's liscensed knockoff company, Squier, has been doing very well with their CV (Classic Vibe) series. Guitar center carries those, to my knowledge.

If I could recommend anything to you, it'd be a precision-style bass (a single "split coil" pickup, google that for images and info) from a reputable company, a small amp or headphone amp, a "setup" from a guitar tech (to make sure the guitar is adjusted and intonated properly).

Thunderbirds are awesome sounding, chunky, iconic basses, but they have many little problems that might add up to a diminished experience for a new player. They have neck dive (the weight of the bass is centered toward the neck, so it 'dives' without modification), a difficult to use bridge (3 screws, I've heard it creates intonation/sustain issues) and a delicate neck. I have researched the topic because I have G.A.S (gear acquisition syndrome) for a Thunderbird

The rest? I'm pretty new too: Studybass.com has really helped me in the absence of a teacher. You are introduced to everything in the proper order, and the examples included are easy to play along to, enlightening, and simple. The rest I can infer from youtube demonstrations, learning to read tab diagrams, a 10 dollar scale book, etcetera.

Good luck and welcome

 

[DJS]

I'm a newer bass player myself, and it's been a pleasure. The best thing I did was find a teacher who fed me small doses of technique and theory. I went from learning one song in three weeks to learning three songs a week in less than a year.

Regarding the instrument? I still play my basic Ibanez GSR190 that came in a $300 kit. (Looking to upgrade soon - Hoping to find a MIJ Jazz bass Special from the mid 80s like Duff McKagan played in Guns and Roses)

I used a Vox headphone amp for a long time, and fed songs from my iPod into it. I'd walk around the house wireless, play in front of the TV, and generally annoy my family.

Doing it all over again, don't get a kit. Invest in a decent instrument, a tuner, and a headphone amp. Then when funds permit, get a decent amp. Above all, invest in a teacher.

 

[SevenReasons]

If you manage to get an axe in the next six weeks before I head out on tour I would be more than happy to give you a few free skype lessons to get ya pointed in the right directions. A few quick pointers can go a long way in preventing bad habbits (which are a SUPER pain to break) and avoiding unnecessary pain/health issues. Except for those calluses those you'll just have to deal with like the rest of us the old fashion way Also what country are you in? I tour all over maybe I'm coming through!

 

[Takt]

I'm told that Precision basses have a comperable tone to the thunderbird. Both are praised for "sitting in the mix" and both are accused of being "1 trick ponies."

I have a MiM (made in Mexico) P Bass, from Fender. However, Fender's liscensed knockoff company, Squier, has been doing very well with their CV (Classic Vibe) series. Guitar center carries those, to my knowledge.

If I could recommend anything to you, it'd be a precision-style bass (a single "split coil" pickup, google that for images and info) from a reputable company, a small amp or headphone amp, a "setup" from a guitar tech (to make sure the guitar is adjusted and intonated properly).

Thunderbirds are awesome sounding, chunky, iconic basses, but they have many little problems that might add up to a diminished experience for a new player. They have neck dive (the weight of the bass is centered toward the neck, so it 'dives' without modification), a difficult to use bridge (3 screws, I've heard it creates intonation/sustain issues) and a delicate neck. I have researched the topic because I have G.A.S (gear acquisition syndrome) for a Thunderbird

The rest? I'm pretty new too: Studybass.com has really helped me in the absence of a teacher. You are introduced to everything in the proper order, and the examples included are easy to play along to, enlightening, and simple. The rest I can infer from youtube demonstrations, learning to read tab diagrams, a 10 dollar scale book, etcetera.

Good luck and welcome

I googled for pictures of a single split-coil pickup, and you suggest if I buy an Ibanez or Yamaha that if it's a split coil pickup it's okay?
I want it to sound like the T-bird but the acquisition of one of those seems increasingly unlikely, I'm paying a visit to a local music store in a couple hours so I'll take a look at what's available there.
I'm supposed to watch out for kits and suspect equipment?
And I'm not sure what a P bass is, to be quite honest

So a Squier CV series is a good choice too?

I'm a newer bass player myself, and it's been a pleasure. The best thing I did was find a teacher who fed me small doses of technique and theory. I went from learning one song in three weeks to learning three songs a week in less than a year.

Regarding the instrument? I still play my basic Ibanez GSR190 that came in a $300 kit. (Looking to upgrade soon - Hoping to find a MIJ Jazz bass Special from the mid 80s like Duff McKagan played in Guns and Roses)

I used a Vox headphone amp for a long time, and fed songs from my iPod into it. I'd walk around the house wireless, play in front of the TV, and generally annoy my family.

Doing it all over again, don't get a kit. Invest in a decent instrument, a tuner, and a headphone amp. Then when funds permit, get a decent amp. Above all, invest in a teacher.

Yep, I get it. I've found a teacher who seems capable, I'm going to visit him and he'll help me choose a bass I believe, if I can't find one with everyone's help here on TB.

All I want for it, as I've mentioned, to sound like a T-bird.

 

[Takt]

If you manage to get an axe in the next six weeks before I head out on tour I would be more than happy to give you a few free skype lessons to get ya pointed in the right directions. A few quick pointers can go a long way in preventing bad habbits (which are a SUPER pain to break) and avoiding unnecessary pain/health issues. Except for those calluses those you'll just have to deal with like the rest of us the old fashion way Also what country are you in? I tour all over maybe I'm coming through!

Damn that's a great opportunity I'm missing out on. :/
And I move around a lot, in Pakistan for the next couple years, which is why it's so difficult to get a decent axe here. I'm waiting till the next few months until I have a teacher and some spare time to buy an axe so I guess I'll miss out.
What band are you in anyway?

 

[SevenReasons]

Haha which ever one is paying the most at the time. lol. I freelance as my "day job" so I'm kind of all over the place musically and location wise. Going with your new potential bass teacher to pick out a bass is great idea. As much advise as the many knowledgable members of TBers can give, it will be no match for having an experience bassist there with you to try them out first hand and make sure you don't get a lemon. There are some great playing basses in your price range and a seasoned player should be able to help ya pick it out of the bunch! Good luck and happy playing!!

 

[Legattabass]

I googled for pictures of a single split-coil pickup, and you suggest if I buy an Ibanez or Yamaha that if it's a split coil pickup it's okay?
I want it to sound like the T-bird but the acquisition of one of those seems increasingly unlikely, I'm paying a visit to a local music store in a couple hours so I'll take a look at what's available there.
I'm supposed to watch out for kits and suspect equipment?
And I'm not sure what a P bass is, to be quite honest

So a Squier CV series is a good choice too?

The single coil split pickup with a set of round-wound strings is what makes that sort of iconic, "growly" rock tone for bass. So yes, I suppose that pickup in an ibanez or Yamaha would be fine.

Here is the wikipedia link for the precision bass: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fender_Precision_Bass

I only suggest fender or squier because they're probably the largest manufacturers of basses, and the parts are more common/techs probably have the most experience with them. People have different opinions on Ibanez; some love them, some hate them. I can't pick one up without feeling as if it's cheap, poorly finished and weak-necked. Other people really like them, and they're oftentimes the most cost effective bass in their category. Yamaha's I find to be more boring (looking and sounding) than oatmeal, but I'm told that the right models are superb working-man instruments. Plus, I'm new to this; what do I know?

I was told to stay away from kits because the quality tends to be lower on them. Even though they can seem like a really good deal financially, crackly, crappy little amps and poorly set up basses are a recipe for giving up quickly. The extra money you spend on making sure what you buy is playable, comfortable and suitable will mean you'll have fewer subconscious excuses to quit.