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What bass should i purchase for $800

#41
Like some have already said, it really comes down to the tone you want, and how each bass feels to you. Even if you buy a brand new, high quality bass that others rave about, it might not feel right to you. So you really need to just try out as many as you can. Also keep in mind that nice basses might feel and sound terrible if they're not properly set up, and cheap basses can be great if they are. If you find a bass that feels great, you can always upgrade the electronics if you don't like the tone.
 
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#45
Scott madonia said:
I want to buy an active electric bass for around $800. I'm currently looking at the fender deluxe active jazz and the sterling ray34 active. Which bass is nicer, if not these then please suggest some others.
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There is a used EBMM Sterling for that much in the classifieds right now, they can definitely be had around that price range. I can't think of a bass I'd rather have for that amount of money.

EDIT - I should have read the thread first, a lot of others have made this suggestion too! Really, you can't beat a used EBMM instrument for that price, and it'll remain at that price for as long as you keep it too. Used is the way to go!
 
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#46
I can't speak for the EBMMs .. but the Laklands are nice.. I preferred a 55-01 to a 55-02.. Kingston KZs are pretty nice too.. Brubaker Brutes are also very nice basses.. Not very well known.. at least from what I have seen.. outside of here, but great basses.. I took mine out on 3 occasions and each time I had folks come up to me asking me about my Brute..
 
#47
Another vote for used. Another vote for Lakland. I'd suggest a passive bass, imo they are better than active basses in this price range.

Also, I'd have that Mex P-bass of yours checked... Not sure how it is sounding thin/not pure...the P-bass is the epitome of a pure fat sound!! (that is, if it's in full working condition). Make sure it's working properly, and setup properly, and has good strings on it. In fact, I suggest you fully explore the limits of that P-bass before making another purchase, because chances are you don't need another bass.
 
#51
There's a like new Fender American Standard Jazz Bass in the TB classified now for $795 (I think its still there). Has S1 switching for more tonal variety too. Buying used gets you a lot more bang for the buck, but be sure to go with someone with good feedback (here or ebay). Guitar Center's used selection is a mixed bag. Good luck.
 
#52
Listen to my words, young skywalker.. Aria Pro Super Bass Series.
Vintage Matsumoku Golden Era, Id recommend an R60/80 or an SB700/900
Heres a SB900 (not that pics can do them justice):
DSC_0209.jpg



Heres an SB Elite II:
aria_pro_2-onside3.jpg


Go on and be great, you will..
 
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#54
mmbongo said:
Check this one:
For Sale - Lakland Skyline 44-02 | TalkBass.com

Don't worry about Laklands being 'Indonesian made', as they have the USA electronics and are fully Plek'd.
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This would be where my money went.

Ibanez are good but they are a much different playing bass than a Fender so be prepared for a learning curve.

I you are going the MM route, I would wait and by a used EB from the 90's. They can be for just under 1k. It's worth saving the extra 100 bucks or so IMO.
 
#55
If you are looking used, check out MTD Kingstons also...the Artist is much like a MM, Heir also but adds the jazz pickup in the neck, and the Zs have soap-bars - they can be had for $400 - $800 range depending on model used. The passive basses can be had as well...CRB and Saratoga...think pbass and jbass...

I have 2 Heirs, a 4 and a 5 string (with Barts), and both are easy playing, great sounding basses...and wont kill your back.

Just my two cents...

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My Heir5 w/ Bartolini pickups and preamp (low run trans-black finish):

KH5_004.jpg
 
#57
Scott madonia said:
I want to buy an active electric bass for around $800. I'm currently looking at the fender deluxe active jazz and the sterling ray34 active. Which bass is nicer, if not these then please suggest some others.
Click to expand...

Instead of asking on some internet forum, why not go out and actually lay your hands on the instruments you are considering and actually try them out... Remember, even within the same make / model there are huge variations between individual instruments. Especially where setup is concerned.

For that money, you could easily pick up half a dozen SX Ursa 2's if that's what you like, or one Fender MIM Jazz... Again just depends on what you like...
 
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#60
Mikey F said:
Scott,
I am a bit of a Warwick nut, but I think the German made Corvette Std's are pretty BA. Bubinga body with ovangkol necks. You can usually get them used between 600-750. They are high quality instruments with a killer slap tone. Pure beef.
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Definitely! They also have the FNA series which is the Warwick version of a Stingray. I have one for sale now but it is a 5 string. But the 4s come up pretty regularly and they are very sweet. Also the Masterman series and the Streamer pro M. All MM style basses and very cool- they sound great and they are lots of fun to play. If you take the time you can really dial in the Warwick action too!

Good call!
 

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