As mentioned, go the secondhand route here in the TB classifieds. I'm kinda partial towards the Peavey Millennium 4's I've seen lately. US made, top-notch construction, and well under $500.
Riis
Riis
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Suggestions for 4 string under $500??
- Thread starter EricLBC
- Start date
I also recommend Squier. I had a Vintage Modified Jazz 77 and it was a good solid bass that had excellent intonation and stayed in tune. For $299 it is hard to beat. I know professional bass players who swear by Squier as their go to gig bass. Definitely worth a look. 
Ibanez SR500, best sub- $600 bass on the market IMHO. Can be found for much less used. Fast thin neck, great electronics, perfect balance.
I also recommend Squier. I had a Vintage Modified Jazz 77 and it was a good solid bass that had excellent intonation and stayed in tune. For $299 it is hard to beat. I know professional bass players who swear by Squier as their go to gig bass. Definitely worth a look.
+ 1 on above statement. I love my Squier VM Jazz 70`s. Sounds awesome.
Perhaps we can all just summarize it like this; New or used, any well put-together Squier will fit your bill. It'd just be a matter of finding one that delivers the sound you're looking for.
Squier Vintage Modified, SX, it's hard to go wrong with either and they re both well under $500.
Are you kidding?! You can get both brand-new and still have some pocket change left over!
I'll second the Black Top Jazz - new or used its in your budget, says Fender on the headstock and has the aggressive sound needed for a lot of Punk music. You won't find a lot of people recommending them because not many have tried them, I have and was very very impressed. It's a unique sounding bass that delivers grit and grind in spades.
GBass just reminded me; Eric, if the Blacktop is catching your attention, but you want more first-hand accounts, go to the club in my signature below.
Doner Designs
Steve Doner
- Jun 2, 2012
- 5,784
- 6,819
- Disclosures
- Doner Designs is an alias for Steve Doner
With a $500 budget there is a mind-boggling plethora of choices available, both new and used.
Choices galore. Maybe time for a "decision tree"?
Choices galore. Maybe time for a "decision tree"?
Whoa almost forgot, the Fender Blacktop Jazz is only $500. brand new. Alnico pickups, alder body, U.S. pots and caps. I don't think there is a better deal out there.
Fender Squire Matt Freeman P-bass is a tremendous deal. Comes with Fender's high-mass bridge with brass saddles. The new Classic Vibe is similar. Both are $380.00 new.
Ibanez's are always a good buy but they feel different. Schecter's OMEN Extreme bass is a great rock bass, great looking too. Music Man's new affordable line are quite good for around 300 bucks.
