Looking for advice on multiple fronts (adult beginner)

[Outbush]

For silent practice I use a Presonus Audio box so I can play along with music on my computer, YouTube’s etc. I often listen to podcasts and have a metronome going & just practice playing exact on the beat It’s a cheap way of learning that won’t upset the neighbours.

for your bass comfort is everything. Play a few, 4 and 5 strings and see what is best for you - and use your professional knowledge thinking about biomechanics as you try them out. As you can easily guess with your background, how your body wrists fingers etc are shaped will have a big impact on how you hold the instrument, whether strings should be close together or spread apart. There is actually no “ideal” position for bass unusually.

Don’t just do lessons. Listen to some easy songs with not too many chords and learn to play them by ear. And not what the bass player on the recording plays. If the chords are A, D, B E just play away on the root notes but make it sound good. Get the feel for playing, try different rhythms, play with a pick and with fingers (again there is no right or best way). Just make that song sound good.

otherwise, there is plenty of great info here!

oh, and all around the world there are bass players grooving it up on equipment worth a quarter of mine or less but I’m lucky to have had a good job in Australia. Better equipment makes you a better player but make your equipment better and save money too. Follow this link and watch it. It’s like when you learn to dive a car and they teach you how to fuel up, check the oil and water. This series is that for bass guitars. [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
(It’s 4 parts, 5 minutes each) Either with help or on your own if you are handy with tools at least check the truss rod adjustment & intonation are right. If they’re wrong the best bass is going to be hard to play and not sound good.

 

[Eli_Kyiv]

As for amp... well, it's my 5th year as a "weekend warrior" gigging musician. I still don't have amp and have no intentions to buy one. Once my band drummer gave me some cheap 10W practice amp as a birthday gift. I played with it for 5 minutes and sold it quite soon. If you have a decent stereo at home, or good computer speakers (not the cheap plastic ones), you're good, at least for a while.
As for processor, you don't essentially need one while studying bass basics, but I agree with @andruca - if you can get one cheap, why not? I use Zoom B3n, but there's really nothing wrong with Zoom B1on/Xon/Four/X Four. There are other vendors as well, like Boss, Korg, Digitech, etc., their old models also could be bought cheap (sometimes dirt cheap).
BTW, I've been to Serbia twice - once in Beograd, another time in Paracin. Nice country, good people.

 

[Ruknrole]

I would recommend starting with a 4 string and taking BassBuzz’s Beginner to Badass online course. Josh Fossgreen is an awesome teacher.

Learn How to Play Bass — Badass Bass Lessons

 

[g-dude]

@g-dude Your post made me laugh, the old war-related songs from both sided are hilarious (now). I'll tell you an interesting thing, man that is credited for inventing the genre is a bassist, his name is Miodrag Ilić, nicknamed Mile Bass. He made all the best arrangements and his band "Južni vetar" (Southern Wind) had 5 of the best singers of all time in the genre. Many of these songs have great bass lines, especially since Mile is a rocker at heart, but started playing folk music in order to make money, his family was struggling.

I’ll have to check them out.

I still remember how the wars were covered by the news over here: horribly. It’s like the news couldn’t figure out how to explain exactly what was going on, and it only got worse as the conflicts got more complicated. Meanwhile, you got this sense that bad stuff was going on, and we were just sitting there letting it happen while in other parts of the world, we would have picked a side and made them the winner.

In sharp contrast, a couple of months ago I watched a nice travel video by this guy named Rick Steves who visited Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Montenegro and you get a sense of how beautiful the whole region is…and then you see things like parks that were turned into cemeteries because the tree cover was the only way you could avoid snipers.

Pivoting back to the world of basses, the one thing I just realized you should budget for is someone who will do a proper setup of the bass. If you can find someone who will actually let you watch, and explain what they are doing, it’d be super educational. No matter the quality of the bass, making sure all the parts are working together properly is the difference between becoming famous and ending up begging for spare change. Okay, that might be an exaggeration, but it’ll certainly make you sound better which will have positive reinforcement on your playing.

 

[GreyBeard]

As a retired music educator, I recommend a method book I used to teach 25 to 50 beginners on mixed instruments over 39 years. This method teaches you how to read notes and it comes along with a play along DVD. https://www.amazon.com/Essential-El...ocphy=9009452&hvtargid=pla-564992880196&psc=1

As to 4 string vs 5 string, start with a 4 string as most if not all methods will use a 4 string.

Active or passive? It really doesn't matter all that much, you can't really go wrong with either.

 

[Jack Deth]

One thing to know, if you get an active bass (has the battery in it) don’t leave the chord plugged into it when you are not playing/practicing. That will drain the battery in no time.

 

[bassliner50]

Versatility comes from the player not the instrument. I know you may not have confidence in this statement at this point, but time and experience will prove this to be true. An electronically complex active bass will just be a distraction and unnecessary layor of thought. Passive will do everything in the right hands. Solid simple gear will serve you well in the long run. Don't get caught up in bells and whistles. Buy used. Learn to do proper set ups. Learn to evaluate used instruments.

 

[AlexMYS]

Hey guys, I have an update.

I spoke with a guy who sells many high and mid end instruments, his recommendation was a Marcus Miller V7 Alder-4 TS 2nd Gen, he has one that's almost brand new for 380E/440$. He can also set it up for me. New in store is 580E/673$, which is probably overpriced. I didn't put the ad link, since I don't know if it's allowed. I will be able to test this one, so that's a big plus.

What do you guys think about that? I have to be honest, I like a more aggressive look, but that's not the most important thing. This might be a laughable question, but would I be able to have proper tone, for example, Faith No More, Tool, SOAD, Pantera?

I also found a Cort GB75, all set up with flatwound strings, sanded frets and 2 additional pick guards (probably irrelevant) for 400E/465$ and I could get a Zoom B2.1u processor for a good price as well. I didn't find much info about this one.

Again, thank you so much for helping me out, I really appreciate it.

 

[BlueTalon]

When I said my budget, I meant only for the instrument, so I'll have money to buy a proper amp, but I have to say honestly, I'm a bit confused. What's the role of these processors? Is it like a preamp with effects? Maybe it's better to get a passive bass + processor + amp, than going active + amp or am I completely missing the point?

As for the 4 vs 5 string issue, my conclusion is that I should try and get the best deal possible, especially since I'm buying used and that the feel of the instrument should be the deciding factor. Trouble is that most of these used instruments aren't that close to me, but they are mostly within a 100 km radius. But I really like that Ibanez.

Active or passive - I'm still not sure about that, especially since I'm unsure how the whole processor-amp-setup side of things work.

The most basic system is a bass + amp + cabinet. And often, the amp + cabinet are combined in one unit called a combo. (There are many good combos.)

The amp consists of a preamp section and a power section. The preamp shapes the tone, and the power section amplifies the signal to a level that's adequate to drive the speakers. (In some cases, the preamp and power section are separate units, but that is a choice for people with much more experience, and it is relatively rare.)

And active bass also has a preamp on it, but it does NOT replace the preamp in an amp. Bass amps are designed to work with passive basses AND active basses. You can get whatever bass you want, and it will work with any fully functional bass amp. You don't need to worry about effects or processors until later.

I advise you to get the best bass you can afford. I also advise that if you eventually plan to play a 5-string, that you start on a 5-string. They usually aren't much more expensive than a 4-string, and it doesn't take any longer to learn how to play. However, if you start on a 4-string and get used to that, learning a 5-string is another transition that takes more time and more effort. It's not an automatic switch.

 

[Outbush]

Hey guys, I have an update.

I spoke with a guy who sells many high and mid end instruments, his recommendation was a Marcus Miller V7 Alder-4 TS 2nd Gen, he has one that's almost brand new for 380E/440$. He can also set it up for me. New in store is 580E/673$, which is probably overpriced. I didn't put the ad link, since I don't know if it's allowed. I will be able to test this one, so that's a big plus.

What do you guys think about that? I have to be honest, I like a more aggressive look, but that's not the most important thing. This might be a laughable question, but would I be able to have proper tone, for example, Faith No More, Tool, SOAD, Pantera?

I also found a Cort GB75, all set up with flatwound strings, sanded frets and 2 additional pick guards (probably irrelevant) for 400E/465$ and I could get a Zoom B2.1u processor for a good price as well. I didn't find much info about this one.

Again, thank you so much for helping me out, I really appreciate it.

Both basses will be able to do a lot of tones.

Having the guy set up the Sire for you is a real plus; so long as the bass is compfortable sitting down and on a strap Sires have a great reputation.

 

[Eli_Kyiv]

I could get a Zoom B2.1u processor for a good price as well. I didn't find much info about this one.

If the price is south of €50, take it. This multieffect pedal is obsolete, but still quite good for beginner. When you outgrow it, you'll probably be able to sell it for the same kind of money.

 

[AlexMYS]

The most basic system is a bass + amp + cabinet. And often, the amp + cabinet are combined in one unit called a combo. (There are many good combos.)

The amp consists of a preamp section and a power section. The preamp shapes the tone, and the power section amplifies the signal to a level that's adequate to drive the speakers. (In some cases, the preamp and power section are separate units, but that is a choice for people with much more experience, and it is relatively rare.)

And active bass also has a preamp on it, but it does NOT replace the preamp in an amp. Bass amps are designed to work with passive basses AND active basses. You can get whatever bass you want, and it will work with any fully functional bass amp. You don't need to worry about effects or processors until later.

I advise you to get the best bass you can afford. I also advise that if you eventually plan to play a 5-string, that you start on a 5-string. They usually aren't much more expensive than a 4-string, and it doesn't take any longer to learn how to play. However, if you start on a 4-string and get used to that, learning a 5-string is another transition that takes more time and more effort. It's not an automatic switch.

Thanks for the explanation man, I did some research as well, it's clearer to me now. I will aim for a 5 string, but I'm limited by the offerings on the market, since I won't buy new, the prices are straight up unfair.

 

[MrLenny1]

4 string passive will do. Don't worry about the callouses.
As a beginner I will highly recommend you start lessons.
Don't worry about active 5's yet.

 

[BroDon]

Hi Alex, you can learn in silent mode with headphones. At some point you will want to play with others, then you need an amp/speaker. When you get to that stage go for the most power you can. 10W is only bedroom, with a group aim for 100w or more. If you have a loud drummer then 250w is minimum, 400-500w preferred. A Fender Rumble 500 (350w without an extension speaker. Add a 8 ohm speaker cabinet and it puts out 500w) is a very versatile, roadworthy, lightweight and cheaper than many others.

For continued silent learning/playing just look for devices that have an Aux input and a headphone out. Even the Rumble 500 has them. You plug your bass in a 1/4 inch input and send a signal to the Aux input and listen with the headphones.

I like devices like the Zoom because you plug in your guitar and use the the Zoom's Aux in for radio/mp3 player/computer, then listen to the mix through your headphones from the Zoom. Here you can listen to the radio and hear your bass through your headphones together. Adjust the bass and the radio/mp3 player/computer output to balance your mix. Use a 1/8 cable from the device headphone out jack.

Something like this:

Bass - 1/4 instrument cord - Zoom 1/4 input. Mp3/computer headphone out - 1/8 cord - Zoom Aux in - Zoom Headphone out

I like things like the Zoom as you can experiment with all kinds of amplifier and speaker simulations, along with distortion and effect simulations. There is much debate over how well well these simulations match the real instruments, but they will give you an idea of what various equipment sounds like. For many the Ampeg B15 is the gold standard amp for clean sounds (ala James Jamerson and Motown).

As for your fingers, flatwounds are more gentle as they have no ridges. Set a growth schedule where you play 5-15 minutes a day. If you feel your finger tips starting to burn, stop for the day, note the time duration, and repeat after the next 24 hours. When you can do 30 minutes per session, go to 15 minutes 2x per day, say morning and evening. Then add 5 more minutes per session. Keep expanding until you can do a hour at a time 2x per day.

In my case, I never did get callouses, but my finger tips did get thicker. Now on a 6 string guitar you do similar and you will develop callouses. Either way, the process can take 2-6 weeks.

I learn best from books and recommend the Mel Bay beginner series by Roger-Filiberto.
https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Bas...1635042560&sprefix=mel+bay+bass,aps,73&sr=8-4

Series 1 and 2 will give you a firm foundation from which you can launch out from.

Always play with a metronome. No matter how long or short the session. Be ruthless with your adherence to it. This will develop your ear and your fingers. When you play with others you are the rhythm section, for that your timing cannot be controlled by your technique. If you do not develop solid timing, only your mother will enjoy your playing. So with others, all of you learn to work with the metronome click track.

The Zoom has a metronome and drum loops. Resist the drum loops as you need to develop timing without all the drum clues to the beat. Get proficient with the metronome click, then add in drum loops.

God bless and stay focused.

 

[AlexMYS]

I have an update guys!

I bought a Cort B4 plus (4 string) and received it on Tuesday, yesterday I bought a Zoom B3N processor, since I'm gonna play with headphones until I learn the basics.

I love the tone in passive mode, and the instrument is very comfortable, light and beautiful!

Currently I'm practicing proper plucking technique, muting and fretting, using StudyBass website. It's going great, I'm already playing some melodies, which sound like actual music

As for my concerns for finger abrasion/calluses - it seems like the years of massage therapy already made my fingertips very tough, since I don't feel any issues, nor there's any tenderness and I play 45 minutes to an hour since I got the instrument.

I'm splitting my practice into 2-3 sessions per day, since it's a new activity and my fingers and wrists need to adapt.

Thank you all for your advice and help, it meant a lot.

 

[vindibona1]

I'm a little late to the party, and haven't read all the previous responses so forgive me if I duplicate any and hope you and everyone else forgives me if I contradict previous advice.

First the learning portion... I am a STRONG believer in personal, face to face lessons, especially in the beginning. Having taught instrumental music for 48 years, the one thing I've seen is a lot of people quitting before becoming proficient. What I tell everyone starting off at the beginning is; GO AS FAR AS YOU CAN AS FAST AS YOU CAN BEFORE THE ENTHUSIASM FADES. As far as learning content goes, I would say there is a 25% chance that a new player can direct his own learning, at least if wanting rapid advancement. Also, it only takes 20 minutes of playing with a bad habit to ingrain it to the point where it can take months or years to undo. I've seen it in. I've lived it. Trust me. Do not go down that road. With in-person lessons you get immediate feedback from the instructor who will show you basic technique or help you find what's best for you so you can practice in consistent manner. He can also direct you as to how to get over humps that you can never get from online lessons. Once you have a foundation you can dial back the in-person lessons because you can then scan content for what you want to learn. IMO, self teaching at the beginning is slow at best and possibly self defeating at worst. You can take my advice or not.

Basses? As pointed out, Ibanez makes basses above their price point as does Yamaha. Personally, while I play 5 string basses almost exclusively now, I think 4 string is probably a good way to start. As a beginner you will not need the extra lower notes. 99% of the stuff you'll want to learn can be accomplished on a 4 string. Since you're on a budget now, buy that inexpensive used bass, but the Ibanez BTB bass looks interesting. I don't know that there is a negative going to a 5 string, but I can't say as I started playing bass before 5 string basses existed. However, switching from 4 to 5 was more of a challenge than it would seem and took me a year to become fully comfortable and natural on a 5 string. So that's the flip side of that. I can't help you make that decision, brother.

As someone else suggested, you're going to need a bass amp, so leave some budget for that.

Callouses and finger pain? It won't be that bad unless you overdo it. I think it will be less of a problem than you're anticipating. It shouldn't take more than two weeks to get your fingers fully acclimated to playing.

Anyway... Good luck. Keep us posted with your progress.

 

[A9X]

For learning, I HIGHLY recommend the Beginner to Badass course at bassbuzz.com (I have no affiliation, just a satisfied customer). The way it's taught, structured, and presented is fantastic.

Agreed. I just signed up recently as I'm about to move to the country where I know there isn't an instructor in my town. Face to face is best, but you have to do what you have to do.

Even if you just need a "coach" or someone to bounce ideas/questions off of, I am offering my assistance.

That's very cool of you. Bless.

I bought a Cort B4 plus (4 string) and received it on Tuesday, yesterday I bought a Zoom B3N processor, since I'm gonna play with headphones until I learn the basics.

Very nice, underrated bass and the B3n is great. I have one and love it. Bought it new in box for about EU50.

One last piece of advice; avoid gadgets and GAS and learn some music theory to help with your playing. There are plenty of excellent resources on YT for this such as Rick Beato, Gracie Terzian and lots more for guitar and piano. Plus there are plenty of people offering free lessons like Luke's Become a Bassist, SBL, TalkingBass etc. Watching others sometimes outside of a structured lesson format can often give insights that might take longer to get otherwise.

Enjoy the low end.

 

[AlexMYS]

@vindibona1 Check my post above yours, I bought the guitar and a processor, I'll get the amp a bit later, when I get trough the basics.

About in-person lessons, I probably will get a couple lessons, once I get the very basics under my belt. I've learned many things on my own, trough online resources, I'm very meticulous and detail-oriented, so it works out fine, but some things need to be evaluated by others.

@A9X I hope you meant 150 euros, since I paid mine that much new I'm learning theory and technique in 1:1 ratio, since I seem to be one of the rare people who actually enjoy learning music theory

I'm learning using StudyBass, but I might sign up for the "Beginner to badass" course, I've heard great things about it.

Thank you both.

 

[Eli_Kyiv]

I hope you meant 150 euros, since I paid mine that much new

I've bought my B3n for €130 last spring, used but like new. Now they seem to be a little more expensive.

 

[A9X]

@A9X I hope you meant 150 euros, since I paid mine that much new

Sorry, no, it was $A100 which isn't EU50, but EU64 (just did a conversion). It was an epay listing that ended on NY day morning when no one was around to bid, so I got it at the start price.

I'm learning theory and technique in 1:1 ratio, since I seem to be one of the rare people who actually enjoy learning music theory

I do to now, but I wish I did when I was younger. My late wife was a classical pianist and wanted to teach me but back then I think I would have rather had dental surgery.