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Recommend me a 4-string bass for sub $400

I'd suggest Ibanez, Traben, Esp Ltd, Peavey as main brands to check out in that price range. For some the epiphone ebo bass would be good choice too. It and others by brands listed are gettable new thru internet stores for less then $350. Its going to come down to most playable best sounding to you out of those. Also check your local stores used dept, might find something really nice in your price range there that couldnt afford otherwise.
 
I have to get on the Yamaha BB414 bandwagon, I picked one up here in the for sale forum and it is an amazing value. Even at new on eBay $340 shipped it is worth it. I paid less than that, but the bass is a great value period. I have to admit it is fighting my USA Fender Jazz for playing time at the moment! I wanted a bass i could travel with that I wouldn't care if I lost it or it got stolen ($230) and I feel like i bought a $500 or $600 bass. On top of that i have a very nostalgic fondness for the bass as it reminds me of some great 80's bass players .
 
Well my trip to GC was a fail. :(

They didn't have any of the good Squiers except the CV Jazz but I think i like P-basses better.

They had one bass that sounded and played real nice. It was a midnight blue/gold pickguard MIM P-Bass Deluxe. I couldn't stand the look of it and they wanted $400 for it used so I passed.

They also had a nice used Yamaha BB614 for $320 but it was fretless. I like fretless but I would rather start out with frets.

The search is still on. Tomorrow I will hit a few other local shops.