How To Buy A Bass Guitar Guide

Aim for a bass around 9 lbs or lighter. Your shoulders will thank you during long sessions.

Stick to 4 strings initially. It’s the standard for almost every genre and keeps the neck narrow and manageable. 3. Essential Gear List

Buying your first bass is a rite of passage. While it’s hard to find a "bad" instrument today thanks to high manufacturing standards, finding the right one for you makes all the difference in staying motivated. 1. Choose Your "Vibe" (Body & Sound) how to buy a bass guitar

Standard "long scale" is 34 inches. If that feels like too much of a stretch, look for a short-scale bass (30 inches), which is lighter and easier on the hands.

A hybrid that gives you the punch of a P-bass with the clarity of a J-bass. Aim for a bass around 9 lbs or lighter

A decent 10ft instrument cable to connect the bass to the amp.

One pickup, two knobs. It produces a "thumpy," punchy, classic rock/soul sound that sits perfectly in a mix. It’s the standard for almost every genre and

Start with a passive bass. They don't require batteries for their electronics, making them simpler and more reliable for new players. 2. Comfort Check