When it comes to choosing between bass guitars, there are a number of things to consider. The ideal bass will have characteristics that match your preferences and may be found at the best price, size, and more. Here’s what you should look for when purchasing a bass:
Price
A bass guitar’s price can vary significantly, from less than $150 to over $1,500. Keep your budget in mind while selecting a bass guitar; after all, you may spend as much as you like. There are several excellent beginner bass guitars available for beneath $200, and many of these lower-priced alternatives are still high-quality instruments.
Body Style
When it comes to bass guitars, there are two distinct body types: solid body and semi-hollow.
- The majority of electric bass guitars are constructed of a solid wood body, similar to that of an electric guitar. Because they’re designed with amplification in mind, they produce a deeper and meatier sound.
- However, there are also semi-hollow basses that produce a sound more comparable to acoustic bass. A semi-hollow bass may still be used with an amplifier, but it allows you greater control over the tone by allowing you to switch between a solid body’s full-on amplified style and the resonance of an acoustic bass.
Neck
Another thing to think about is the neck of your bass guitar. Necks come in a few different shapes and sizes. Certain neck forms may make it simpler to travel across the fretboard, depending on your taste and playing style.
- U-shaped – Bass guitars with U-shaped necks are often called “baseball bat” necks because they resemble a baseball bat. The neck is thick and rounded, and it resembles a U.
- V-shaped – There are two distinct types of v-shaped necks: a “soft” V and a pointer “hard” V. The soft V-neck is more rounded, while the hard V-neck is typically regarded as more comfortable for players.
- C-shaped – The neck of the C-shaped guitar is commonly oval, but it can also be more like the “modern c,” which has a flat oval form. The neck of the C-shaped guitar is versatile and adaptable to most playing techniques.
Scale length
Long-scale and short-scale basses exist. A typical (or long-scale) bass is 34″ long, while a short-scale bass is only 30″. Short-scale basses are more suited for players with smaller hands since there is less space between the frets.
Tonewood
You may not have considered the tonewood when selecting your bass. The sound, tone, and even the weight of the guitar are all affected by different varieties of wood. (Later in this chapter, we’ll look at the many types of bass tonewoods and help you decide!)
Style of Music You Want to Play
What was the band or artist that compelled you to pick up the bass? The type of bass you choose may be influenced by the music genre and style that you are drawn to. Rock, metal, jazz, and funk are often associated with different types of solid body bass guitars. That isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, however. Some genres, such as the blues and some more experimental styles, sometimes favour a semi-hollow body design. There are many options when it comes to solid body guitars; therefore, trying out each one to discover your perfect tone is part of the fun of shopping!
