RECOMMEND A BASS TO ME!

[VoiceOfVortex]

I want a bass under $400 that PLAYS GREAT. This is my main concern. I mean, it must sound decent, but playability is my main concern. Low action, fast neck.
I got meself a Dean Jeff Berlin Player (the cheap model), and even though the whole promo for it is about how easy it is to play, it wasn't any better than my Ibanez SRX390. In order to eliminate a SERIOUS 15th fret buzz across all 4 strings, I had to give it some relief, and raise the bridge so far up that the playability now just sucks. I'll make the store do a set up on it, but I'm inclined to just return it.
It may seem I ask for too much, but I know there's gotta be a decent one out there that will "play like buttah!"

I was looking at the Traben Attack bass. Looks good, and most reviewers at Musicians Friend commented on its fast neck.

Any suggestions???

 

[PSPookie]

Used G&L Tribute and a good setup.

You really should learn to do your own setup because while they might do a fine job at the music store they will be setting it up to some abritrary spec and not to your own personal taste.

 

[RNV]

Used G&L Tribute and a good setup.

You really should learn to do your own setup because while they might do a fine job at the music store they will be setting it up to some abritrary spec and not to your own personal taste.

+1 But don't forget a new Squire Vintage Modified.

 

[Thunderthumbs73]

I want a bass under $400 that PLAYS GREAT. This is my main concern. I mean, it must sound decent, but playability is my main concern. Low action, fast neck. Any suggestions???

As you've found out, and articulated in the original post, what you are looking for is a highly personal, indivdual thing. So, no I can't recommend a bass to you, and there's nothing any of us can tell you about that which should supercede your own judgement.

You are clearly looking for "the one" and the only way you'll find it is your (not our) search for it. It's out there! Go find it!

 

[Rick Nicak]

Peavey BXP Grind for 379 at GC, can prolly find it for 300 on the street.

 

[john_g]

I also recommend a used G&L L2000 or a Squier VM. I have both and they are fantastic basses for the money.

 

[Engagechad]

Lower end schecter (sp?) basses have wicked action..

I recommend playing as MUCH as possible and not going on someones word.. see if you can find a gem used

 

[VoiceOfVortex]

I don't like the looks of the G&L's. Yes, I guess looks are somewhat secondary, but I REALLY don't feel like it's the look for me. Thanks, though.
I was looking into ESP's as well. Most of their basses flaunt a "thin U profile neck." Most reviews I've seen remark how fast the necks are. I might get the ESP B-104.
THANKS TO ALL FOR YOUR ANSWERS!

 

[arod53]

I bought my Traben Array 5-string limited edition bass for $350 at guitar center and I absolutely love it. With the pickup configuration, the 3-band eq, I can literally get any sound I want out of it. I play it through a 1x15 paralleled 4x10 and it holds up awesome with the low tones and the highs. If you're looking for a cheap bass, Traben definitely has some good ones.

 

[Gus Borden]

You have specific needs. You are going to have to canvas the music stores around you and see what fits your needs. That's just a reality. Also, at that price point, a set up after you buy it may be a reality. But there are lots of good basses out there in that price point.

Under $400, plays great, sound decent, good playability, fast neck.

These requirements give you us a wide berth to recommend basses to you.

Low action - this is a matter of how you have the bass set up.

 

[Staccato]

You have specific needs. You are going to have to canvas the music stores around you and see what fits your needs. That's just a reality. Also, at that price point, a set up after you buy it may be a reality. But there are lots of good basses out there in that price point.

Under $400, plays great, sound decent, good playability, fast neck.

These requirements give you us a wide berth to recommend basses to you.

Low action - this is a matter of how you have the bass set up.

When you go used, you'll find better quality at your fingertips... All of the basses in my current lineup were purchased as pre-owned.
I'll take a few dents, and such to own an instrument of better quality than I can't afford-new...

 

[Gus Borden]

When you go used, you'll find better quality at your fingertips... All of the basses in my current lineup were purchased as pre-owned.
I'll take a few dents, and such to own an instrument of better quality than I can't afford-new...

+ a lot...

Used always opens up a lot more options and opportunity.

 

[Spinal Tapper]

Don't be afraid to try some used basses. I'm of the impression that anything can be made a great player with a good setup.

I've always purchased basses used, and always gotten the most for my money that way.

 

[progrmr]

Squier Classic Vibe 60's Precision in Fiesta Red - GREAT basses! And $349.

 

[Need2KnowBasses]

Hagstrom has some nice offerings around your price range and they claim to have the "fastest" necks in the business.

 

[vinxbass]

As you've found out, and articulated in the original post, what you are looking for is a highly personal, indivdual thing. So, no I can't recommend a bass to you, and there's nothing any of us can tell you about that which should supercede your own judgement.

You are clearly looking for "the one" and the only way you'll find it is your (not our) search for it. It's out there! Go find it!

Very well put!!

 

[Jo6Pak]

Squier Classic Vibe 60's Precision in Fiesta Red - GREAT basses! And $349.

↑ what he said...