I am looking at getting a new bass (I currently play a Squier Jazz) and have a couple of options in mind, but my GC is poorly stocked which makes playing some of these an issue. I am looking at: ESP Viper 414 Schecter Stiletto Studio BC Rich Mockingbird Traben Chaos Core 4 What I really need is some info from owners of these. Any suggestions would also be appreciated!
This is for a church band and so flexibility is a big deal. We do everything from hard rock to smooth jazz type stuff and everything in between.
Anything wrong with the Squier? Can the bass handle the whole repertoire of stuff you guys play? If everything seems to be fine, why upgrade? If the replacement axe just gives the same set of performance/features than the existing Squier (or worse, less performance/features) then the coin could have been better spent in other areas that would give more bang-for-the-buck, or better yet saved for something really needed down the line.
The G&L 2K is awesome! Soundbytes indicate good flexibility. How much would a G&L 2000 with the carved top run? I really don't want to pay much more than 700 dollars, maybe 800 at the absolute most. As for the Squire it doe basically what I need it to, but only barely. I have been in GC enough times to know that the action, neck and especially the pickups could be a LOT better. It will do until I can get a better bass. Thanks for the advice and ideas. There are alot of smaller guitar shops that offer really good stuff, you just have to know about them heh heh...
+1 on both counts and this is coming from someone who has owned both Also consider looking at used intruments here on TB. For the same amount that you would spend on a new Schecter you could pick up a used MIA Fender or G&L or something else of similar quality.
There's a used Us L2k running at 650 in the classifieds if it hasn't been sold yet, i suggest you to take a look edit: couldn't find it back, sorry it was a see blue-trough l2k
Thats used, which may be an option, but what would a 2K with the Flame Maple Top cost new if I was to buy it in a shop? (I like brand new basses, just something about wood thats never been played on before)
Cant help ya on this one. But a New USA G&l L2000 is about 1,275.00 (that's stock, not burl top,quilt top or anything) New Tribute (Indonesia) $699.00 I've never saw a carved flame maple top on a tribute, so it might not fit your budget. (not that what i saw or didn't means something)
I wouldn't want any of those basses either, but that's just me. Trade up to a USA jazz, then keep your squire as a backup. Shouldn't cost more than $700-800 for a like new used one. G&L's are good quality too, and I'd want a USA one of those too. They're a little harder to sell, so you might find one cheaper than a USA Fender. Don't discount used. The best deals are used.