which $250 short-scale bass ???

[istrum]

A while ago I had a line on a couple short-scales off Craigslist. Was never able to meet with the seller so I ended up with an Ibanez SR400. Nice bass, but didn't care for the long-scale. So, the Ibanez is sold and I'm back looking for a nice, low-cost shortie.

Which $250 short-scale bass would you go for?

a. new Gretsch Jr Jet from the local GC?

b. used Squier Vista MusicMaster off Craigslist?

 

[Zapp]

i dunno, but if someone has a convincing answer I want to hear. i need one in my stash

 

[rfclef]

I have played a gretsch several times and liked it. A music store here had one for $170, used... It was pretty beat up, cosmetically, and I offered $125 and he wanted $160, so I passed. I did like the feel of the Gretsch though... Never played the music master, but I did like the Broncos I played. I jsut scored a used SX shorty jazz for $99, shipped w.gig bag... just got here today...

 

[Andy Brown]

I'd hit the Gretsch.

 

[hdracer]

I'd hit the Gretsch.

+1 Sweet bass for the money.

 

[RedemptionBass]

I've heard that the "Vista Tone" pickup in that model of Musicmaster is flippin' sweet.....

And it looks WAY better than the Gretsch.

 

[michael_atw]

Get a late 70's Fender Musicmaster. You can probably find one for $300, if you wanna put a few more 10's down on something.

 

[istrum]

There is a late 70s MusicMaster on local CraigsList too. Asking $550 though.
Based on what I'm reading it sounds like the Gretsch is hot and well worth the $'s.

Not to be all over the board, but also looking to see if anyone has thoughts on the Brice HVB-600 at Rondo. Also in the $250 range shortscale ballpark. Maybe the comparo should be between the Brice and the Gretsch? I know... Apples and oranges.

Scott

 

[gm2_in_co]

The one I lust after is an EB2. But realistically, I'm thinking a Waterstone Indra. I do tend to favor hollow/semi hollows though. The Epi Rumble Cat (I think that's the name?) was a MAJOR disappointment though.

 

[jallenbass]

Try a Cort Action Jr.

 

[IPA]

Gretsch for sure. Vista are overrated IMO, they are cool in a way but don't seem to be built that great.