If you're just starting, models don't matter much. Someone recommended the Ibanez Soundgear line, and honestly I'd second it. Those feel the most comfortable. My second bass was an Ibanez Soundgear, and I held onto that thing for like eight years. It could be argued that outside of tone, weight, and cut design, that the models themselves don't really matter much, but rather the time spent with practicing and developing techniques and getting comfortable with the instrument and playing it is the thing with it.

Fender has it's own unique vintage tone. But for hard rock and metal, I personally prefer Spector.

I wanted to give my advice on the kind of bass to buy, but then I realised this thread is like 14 years old, which is longer than I’ve even been interested in music.

I wonder what did he buy, and does he still slap that bass


(Anyway, anytime and everywhere I’d go with a Fender Jazz Bass, it just feels the most versatile out of all the basses I’ve ever held in my hands. But then again I might be biased, as a 1997 japanese JB was my first ever bass, and I’ve played it now for 6 years)

The best bass is the one that works for you. You like it's tone, how it plays and the way it feels.

yeah, but nevertheless there might be guidelines on what to pick when you're just starting out.

Like even the simplest ones:

when I was buying my bass I didn't know anything about anything equipment wise, I didn't know how to play at all, and the two things I could choose were a P-bass and a jazz bass, and the guy who owned the place just asked "You want to be more like Sid Vicious or Bootsy Collins?"

And so began my love affair with my sweet Baśka

Precision Bass (P-Bass): Known for its thick and punchy tone, the P-Bass is a classic choice. It's versatile and well-suited for various genres.

Jazz Bass (J-Bass): This type of bass is known for its brighter and more articulate sound. It's also versatile and works well in different musical styles.

Music Man StingRay: Recognizable by its distinctive shape, the StingRay is known for its powerful and clear sound. It's often chosen by players in rock and funk genres.

Ibanez SR Series: Ibanez is known for producing sleek and fast-playing bass guitars. The SR Series is popular for its slim neck and a variety of tones suitable for different genres.

Fender Jazz Bass V: If you're interested in a five-string bass, the Jazz Bass V is an extension of the traditional J-Bass with an additional low B string.

Schecter Stiletto Series: Schecter offers a range of bass guitars with modern features and versatile tones. The Stiletto series is known for its sleek design and powerful pickups.

Gibson Thunderbird: Recognizable by its unique body shape, the Thunderbird offers a distinctive look and a deep, rich tone. It's often favored in rock and heavier genres.

Hofner Violin Bass: If you're a fan of the Beatles, you might be interested in the Hofner Violin Bass. It has a unique hollow-body design and a warm, vintage tone.
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