Newbie needing direction

[Bass_Bear]

So I'm not gonna lie, I'm new here, and to the bass world in general. I've just spent the better part of 2 hours browsing the forums and looking for information, learning and trying to soak it all in. At this point my question is, what should I be looking for for a starting bass.

I have no prvious instrument experience, I have a basic knowledge of the theory behind music, can read tab, know how to hold a bass, but thats about it. Basically what I'm asking is, within a relatively low price range (university students are poor), what kind of bass should I be looking at? Precision vs Jazz, 4 string vs 5 string, and everything else in between. As far as sound is concerned, I don't really have any direction, punk, blues, jazz, rock, etc. consider me an unmolded newbie.

I realise this is asking alot of information but I figured what better place to ask than the gurus of bass.

Thanks,
Jason

 

[Insanity^2]

There is a LOT to discuss here, a good place to start would be http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=69903
But IMO, as a beginner I'd be looking at an SX (good reputation round these parts, can be upgraded over time http://www.google.com/custom?domain...;S:http://www.talkbass.com;LP:1;FORID:1&hl=en), or a MIM Fender.
Depending on your income & level of commitment, you might wanna do a bit more research, shell out a 'bit' more cash and start out on a bass that'll last you, but that's up to you to decide.
Pickup configuration is generally down to personal preference of tone, which will matter to you later on but generally not until you get gigging/recording - go to your local bass shop and try out anything, the feel will be most important at your stage.

Welcome to Talkbass

Edit: And don't be worried about taking advice from me, I'm a lurker here and this is basically an echo of what the more experienced members suggest

 

[fetfet]

Alright, before you ask for advice on buying a bass, go to your local music store, and try out a Squier, or an Epiphone, or an SX, and see whic one sounds the best. even if you don't have anything to play in the way of songs or riffs, just fiddle around with the controls, ask the clerk to make sure it's in tune, and just play the open strings. it's what I did, and I am now perfectly content with my bass.

Also, if you don't like the feel of the bass, ask how long it's been there, and see if you can try a newer one.

A Squier VM Precision, which gets awesome reviews, will run about $249.99 CAN.

 

[Bass_Bear]

Thanks a bunch for the replies, 300$ sounds about right in my price range for a starter. I'm very aware that prices go much much higher than that, and should I actually like it, get good, and get into it, I definatly plan on upgrading.