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Needs suggestions for a beginner bass

C

coolchickmom

Dec 17, 2008
6
0
Atlanta, Georgia
#1
Hi Everyone. I just started playing a couple of months ago. A kind friend loaned me his old long-scale Harmony bass, circa late '70s. It's a bit too big and uncomfortable for me. I am a 5' 8" tall woman, but I have small hands, so I need some recommendations for a comfortable bass, especially one with a smaller neck. Someone suggested the Danelectro short scale (which is what my friend has as a replacement for his Harmony), but I am just not "sold" on that model. I like the "look" of the Ibanez SR400. That is basically the style I'm looking for.

I would greatly appreciate any assistance!

Cheers!
 
#2
depends on budget: Folks here seem to really like the SX basses for beginners - they sell a number of short-scale basses.

Other short scales include old gibsons (my first was a 32" scale EB-1), fender Bronco's or Mustangs...

It really depends on what you want to spend. Those SX short scales are around $120; a nice gibson EB0 with a 32" neck will set you back a lot more.
 
#4
You might want to look into an Ibanez GSRM20, which is a short-scale that goes for $170 on Musician's Friend - well within your budget. The short scale should be very comfortable, and it bears a resemblance to the SR400 you like.

I definitely understand your desire for a short-scale - I'm about 5'6ish myself (although male) with short fingers, so while I play a long-scale bass right now, I'd like to pick up a short-scale to take on vacations and for variety. In fact, the GSRM20 in white may be calling my name . . .
 
#6
Great! I am seriously thinking about Ibanez GSRM20 or the SR400. The prices are well within budget. I am basically playing for fun - post-grad school confidence or something inspired me to pick up the bass - so I do not need to spend a lot of cash. The Harmony I have is just NOT working for me. I actually think the size (and discomfort) is an impediment to my progress, and I can't really play everything the way my instructor is teaching me!

Thanks for the suggestions. I greatly appreciate it!
 
#9
Or, perhaps I just really stink at this and that's why this bass isn't working out! Only time will tell and I have an open mind. If this doesn't work out, I'll move on to the next endeavor. At least for now I can play my favorite Ramones tunes (as "un-challenging" as that may seem to some). And for that, it has all been worth it so far!
 

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