Best
Beginner Bass Guitar
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Overall: Master Tone and Volume Controls Offers Versatility
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Best Feature: Sturdy Four-Saddle Bridge Ensures Tuning Stability
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Intermediate Bass Guitar
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Overall: A Masterpiece of tonally rich and diverse instrument
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Best Feature: Hipshot Bass Bridge For Stable Tuning And Comfortable Action
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professional Bass Guitar
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Overall: Ultra-durable hardshell case for protection.
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Best Feature: Ultra Noiseless Single Coils
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TedScore™: 9/10
The bass guitar, a true gem of beauty and power, often gets ignored by many guitarists. Among string instruments, it stands out with its versatile and unique sound. Boasting a rich and deep low-end, it adds incredible depth to any music group.
Mastering the art of playing Bass Guitar requires skill, patience, and plenty of practice. I remember spending countless hours honing my technique and learning to feel the rhythm deep in my bones.
The right bass guitar brand can make a world of difference in your sound and feel. Whether you’re looking for something to shred with, something that looks cool, or just a reliable workhorse instrument, the right choice of Bass Guitar brands can take your playing to the next level.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best bass guitar brands on the market today. We’ll look at a range of instruments and styles so that you can find one that suits your playing style and budget.
Gear4music
Gear4music is a great option for beginner bassists as it provides high-quality instruments at an affordable price.
The company offers several models of electric, acoustic and bass guitars that are perfect for those just starting out.
The gear4music basses are designed to provide players with the playability and sound quality possible.
They are crafted from high quality materials and offer an excellent level of attention to detail. The basses come with die-cast bridge saddles, and sealed tuning machines, providing enhanced stability and tuning accuracy and professional hardware that makes them a great choice for beginners.
Gear4music basses also come with comfortable neck profiles and easy-to-play fretboards, making them great for those just starting out on the instrument. The company’s range of basses includes both traditional four-string models and contemporary five-string models, allowing players to find the perfect fit for their playing style.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from Gear4music
For beginner bassists, Gear4music offers the LA Series. This line of bass guitars offers a classic design with comfortable playability for players just starting out on their musical journey. The LA Series comes in a variety of colors, including Sunburst and Seafoam green.
The Chicago bass is perfect for those looking for a little more punch in their sound. It comes with a split humbucker pickup, giving it an extra layer of versatility.
Other popular bass models from Gear4Music include the Harlem, Seattle and San Francisco models. The Harlem bass offers a classic look with a modern twist, while the Seattle and San Francisco models provide players with more of a vintage vibe.
For young musicians, Gear4music also offers the Kids Series of bass guitars. These instruments come in small sizes and are perfect for those just getting started.
For players who want to get everything they need in one package, Gear4music also offers packs with accessories included. In these packs, you’ll find the bass guitar, an amplifier, a tuner, strings and a strap – all for an unbeatable price.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Full Size: 864mm
OTHER INFO: Solid maple neck
LA Bass Guitar by Gear4music, Pink
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight & comfortable
- Excellent build quality for an entry level model
- Crisp clear tone with good low end depth
- Vintage hard tail bridge
- Split coil humbucking pickup with volume and tone controls
- Easy to set-up & play
- May not sound as "full" as a more expensive model
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Comes with passive single-coil and split-coil pickups for a range of tones
OTHER INFO: Versatile single saddle bridge system with 14.25mm string spacing
Chicago Neck Thru Bass Guitar, by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Wide range of tones with two dedicated tone knobs
- Comfortable maple neck and lightweight body for easy playing
- Neck-thru design increases sustain and resonance
- Fast access to higher frets with wide cutaways
- High quality hardware ensures tuning stability and accuracy
- Gigbag, strap, jack cable, plectrums and allen keys included
- Pickups may require some adjustment to achieve desired sound
- Not suitable for advanced players looking for more complex tones
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Squier
Squier by Fender is the world’s leading manufacturer of affordable electric bass guitars.
Founded in 1890 by Victor Carroll Squier, the company quickly grew to become a renowned name in string instruments.
By 1965, Fender bought the company and used Squier to market their own lower-priced versions of electric guitars.
Now, Squier offers a range of models, including classic four-string designs, modern five-string configurations, as well as short-scale basses. No matter what style of playing you’re into, there is a Squier bass to fit your needs.
The company uses high-quality materials and components in its instruments, giving them excellent sound quality and playability. The necks are expertly crafted from maple or rosewood and feature comfortable profile shapes for easy playing.
The basses also feature high-output pickups with humbucking and single-coil options. The pickups are designed to provide a range of tonal possibilities, allowing players to dial in the perfect sound for their style of playing.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from (Squier)
The brand offers an impressive range of models from its factories in Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico, China, India, and the United States – all designed with modern features to give you great sound and playability.
One of the most popular models is the Squier Sonic Bronco Bass MN, Arctic White. This instrument features a slim C-shaped neck with a smooth satin finish for comfortable playing. It also has ceramic single-coil pickups, giving you bright and articulate tones that are perfect for blues or country styles of music.
Another great model is the Squier 40th Anniversary Precision Bass, Satin Dakota Red. The instrument features a classic Precision Bass shape with a comfortable maple neck and fingerboard. The pickups are split-coil designs for big, warm tones, perfect for funk and soul styles of music.
Both of these models offer the perfect balance between quality, sound, and price. With Squier Basses, you can be sure that you’re getting an instrument that looks great, sounds amazing and is built to last.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner and Intermediate Players
FEATURES: Ceramic Single-Coil Pickup
OTHER INFO: .045-.105 string gauges
Squier Sonic Bronco Bass MN, Arctic White
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Natural Feel with C Shaped Neck Profile
- Quality Chrome Hardware
- Sturdy Four-Saddle Bridge Ensures Tuning Stability
- Master Tone and Volume Controls Offers Versatility
- Could use better tuners.
- Heavy, may not suit all players.
- Distracting, may interfere with productivity.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Have Fender designed alnico split single coil pickup
OTHER INFO: Nyatoh body
Squier 40th Anniversary Precision Bass, Satin Dakota Red
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Split Coil produces a punchy P bass sound
- Smooth and glassy maple fretboard with narrow tall frets is easy to play on
- Satin urethane finish on neck enables slick riffs and rapid manoeuvring
- Graphite nut maximises resonance and string support
- Aged chrome hardware gives the bass an authentic retro style
- Expensive for Squier basses.
- Alder bodies would have been better than Nyatoh.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender
Fender is one of the most iconic brands in the music industry, known for producing some of the highest-quality basses in the world.
Leo Fender’s innovative electric instruments and amplifiers revolutionized the way music was created and performed.
The Telecaster, Stratocaster, Precision Bass (P Bass), Jazzmaster and Jaguar were all designed to meet the ever-changing needs of musicians while still maintaining a high level of quality.
Fender basses are renowned for their construction, craftsmanship and sound quality. Each Fender instrument is carefully designed with features like a one-piece maple neck for increased stability, an adjustable truss rod to customize the feel of the neck, and precision pickups to capture every nuance of each note. All these elements combine to create an instrument that is both durable and sonically pleasing.
Known for its iconic sound, Fender instruments offer a wide range of sonic capabilities. From the warm, vintage tones of classic Jazz Bass to the growling power of a P-Bass, Fender basses are capable of producing any style of music you can imagine. The wide range of pickups available makes it easy to customize the sound of your instrument, from single coils for clean, articulate tones to humbuckers for rich, punchy low-end.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from (Fender)
Fender offers a wide range of basses for players of all styles and skill levels, from beginner to professional. Whether you are looking for a classic Jazz Bass or a modern Precision Bass, Fender is sure to have the perfect bass for you. Below are some of Fender’s most popular bass models:
The American Professional Jazz Bass offers authentic Fender sound and style with modern upgrades such as a slim “C” neck profile, N3 Noiseless pickups, and a HiMass bridge.
The American Professional Precision Bass combines classic Fender tone with modern features such as a slimmer body shape, custom-designed American Vintage pickups, and improved ergonomics.
The Fender Jazz Bass is a great choice for the budget-conscious player, with a classic Fender tone and updated looks. It features powerful Alnico pickups, chrome hardware, and a slim “C” neck profile.
The American Performer Precision Bass brings modern touches to one of Fender’s most iconic basses. It features an all-new split single-coil pickup, redesigned electronics, and a new classic neck profile.
Fender bass guitars provide great sound and style at any budget. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, Fender has the perfect bass for your playing style.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate and professional bass players
FEATURES: Scale length of 30 inches
OTHER INFO: 9.5 inch radius fingerboard with 19 medium jumbo frets.
Fender Limited Edition Player Mustang Bass PJ
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Unique Canary yellow color adds a bold statement to any stage.
- Versatile tone options with PJ pickup configuration.
- Short scale length makes it easier to play for beginners and those with smaller hands.
- Lightweight alder body for comfortable playing during long sets.
- Limited edition model for collectors and enthusiasts.
- Fender quality and craftsmanship.
- Harder to find and more expensive than standard models.
- Some players may prefer a longer scale length for a different feel and tone.
- Yellow finish may not be to everyone's taste.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Experienced and advanced players
FEATURES: Ultra Noiseless single coils
OTHER INFO: Modern "D"-shaped neck
Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass MN, Texas Tea
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Excellent playability.
- Precision tuning.
- Ultra-durable hardshell case for protection.
- Superb sound quality.
- Passive and active modes.
- Versatile range of tones
- High price point
- Control placement may feel awkward for some players
- Neck shape may not be suitable for players who prefer a more classic or slim profile
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gibson
Gibson ’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and quality makes them one of the top bass guitar brands in the world. Founded in 1894, the company has been producing some of the most iconic and beloved instruments for over a century.
Gibson has an impressive portfolio of brands, including Steinberger, Kramer, MESA/Boogie, KRK Systems and Epiphone.
Gibson bass guitars ranges are dedicated to delivering the highest quality instruments for musicians and music lovers alike so that generations to come can continue to experience the timeless sound created by Gibson guitars.
Gibson basses are known for their bold designs and heavy tonal capabilities, making them ideal for rock and metal players. The company’s selection of pickups offers a range of sonic options to explore and create the perfect sound. The neck-through body construction and sleek curves offer maximum comfort for long hours of playing.
Whether you prefer the classic feel of a P-Bass or the modern styling of a Thunderbird, Gibson basses are sure to exceed expectations.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from (Gibson)
Gibson offers a wide selection of bass models, all designed to give you the classic Gibson sound. The Thunderbird and EB Bass are just two popular examples, both offering a vintage look and punchy sound perfect for rock.
For players looking for modern styling, there is the Les Paul Standard Bass with its sleek curves and versatile pickups. They also offer signature models, such as the Rex Brown Thunderbird and SG Standard Bass, featuring distinct designs that capture the essence of Gibson sound.
The Rex Brown Thunderbird truly captured the essence of Gibson sound, providing me with a unique and inspiring playing experience.
The combination of modern styling, versatile pickups, and distinctive designs truly made this Gibson bass guitar stand out from other intermediate models in this list, providing me with a level of playability and sonic flexibility that exceeded my expectations.
The Gibson bass guitars stand out for their superior craftsmanship and exceptional tone, despite being priced higher than some competitors. However, the investment is worthwhile for serious musicians seeking long-term reliability and an elevated playing experience.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Dual Rhythm and Lead pickups for a fuller sound
OTHER INFO: Grover shamrock tuners for precise tuning
Gibson SG Standard Bass, Heritage Cherry
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Stylish SG body shape with double cutaway access to the top of the scale
- Exceptional clarity at high volume levels thanks to noise eliminating properties
- Highly adjustable bridge for perfect intonation
- Class leading pickups for unparalleled bass power
- Hard shell case to keep your bass safe when travelling
- Not suitable for those who prefer lighter or brighter tones
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Rounded profile neck
OTHER INFO: Hipshot bass bridge for stable tuning and comfortable action
Gibson Rex Brown Thunderbird, Ebony
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Hand-crafted by some of the world's greatest guitar makers
- Developed with bass legend Rex Brown for signature sound
- Timeless retro design with gold hardware and black finish
- Includes Modern Series hardshell case and Gibson Accessory Kit
- Two volume and master tone knobs for easy tone shaping
- Push/pull feature for active/passive switching
- Limited availability
- Not recommended for beginners
- Not as portable as some other bass guitars
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ibanez
The Ibanez brand needs no introduction. It has been providing amazing quality bass guitars for decades and continues to be one of the best electric bass guitar brands on the market.
With a ton of choices in the J Bass range and many other models, Ibanez basses provide players with options that can fit any need.
The necks are designed for fast playing and the sound is often punchy and clear.
Many modern metal bands use these basses as well as jazz, pop, funk and even blues players, who all have something to appreciate about the Ibanez bass guitars.
Ibanez also offers a ton of options when it comes to body and pickup choices. You can find everything from vintage-style jazz basses to modern active pickups and all the way to the heavier 7-string bass guitars that are becoming increasingly popular in metal music today.
Ibanez is one of those iconic brands that will always be well regarded and appreciated by bass players of all genres.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from (Ibanez)
The IbanezSR series is a must-have for those who are searching for an instrument that can handle rigorous playing and still provide quality sound and performance.
These basses come with great maple fretboards, solid mahogany bodies, and some of the best electronics and pickups on the market. Whether you’re playing classic rock, blues, jazz or metal, the SR series has it all.
The GSR180 GIO Bass is a great choice for beginners who are looking for an affordable instrument that has good sound and quality. This bass has a neck-through design, making it easy to play and providing great sustain and tone. It also comes with some of the best hardware on the market, making it durable and reliable.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Maple Neck with New Zealand Pine Fingerboard
OTHER INFO: Standard Dynamix J Pickups (Passive)
Ibanez GSR180 GIO Bass, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Affordable price point for a high-quality bass guitar.
- Durable and comfortable construction
- Powerful tone with plenty of articulation
- Versatile Dynamix pickups with individual volume controls and a master tone
- Lightweight and easy to play
- Chrome Tuner Hardware
- May require some setup adjustments out of the box
- Tuning stability can be an issue at times.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Experienced players and professionals alike
FEATURES: Three-band EQ with bypass switch for maximum control
OTHER INFO: Big Single pickups
Ibanez SR2600 Premium, Cerulean Blue Burst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Titanium reinforced Atlas-4 15-piece neck with panga panga fingerboard
- Stunning cerulean blue burst finish
- Versatile and unique sound capabilities
- Gold hardware may not be to everyone's taste.
- Can be difficult for beginners to master
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Epiphone
Epiphone is a well-known and highly respected brand when it comes to guitars.
For beginners and experts alike, Epiphone offers quality instruments that are perfect for playing any kind of genre, from blues and jazz to rock and metal.
The company has deep roots, having been founded in 1873 by Anastasios Stathopoulos in the Ottoman Empire.
In 1928, Epaminondas Stathopoulos named his father’s business “Epiphone,” combining his nickname “Epi” with “-phone” (from Greek phon-, meaning “voice”).
In 1957, the company was purchased by Gibson, its main rival in the archtop guitar market. Gibson then moved Epiphone’s manufacturing operations to their own factory in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Epiphone is still used as a brand for the Gibson company today but also produces its own exclusive models. Aside from guitars, Epiphone also manufactures double basses, banjos, other string instruments and amplifiers.
The company is well known for producing quality instruments and accessories that are perfect for any musician, regardless of their experience or genre.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from (Epiphone)
Epiphone is renowned for its wide range of bass guitars. Popular models include the Thunderbird Classic-IV, the Jack Casady Bass and the SG Standard EB. Each model has its own unique sound, giving you a great choice when it comes to finding your perfect instrument.
The Thunderbird Classic-IV is a classic rock bass guitar with four strings and a short-scale neck. It has two humbucker pickups, giving it an unmistakable tone that’s perfect for playing any kind of rock or metal music.
The Jack Casady Bass is a signature model designed by the legendary Jack Casady. It has a single humbucker pickup and a 3-way rotary impedance selector switch, allowing you to shape your tone perfectly. Finally, the SG Standard EB is an iconic bass guitar that offers plenty of sustain and power.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Professional Bassists
FEATURES: ProBucker Bass 760 pickups
OTHER INFO: Mahogany neck and Indian Laurel fretboard
Epiphone Embassy Bass, Sparkling Burgundy
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Delivers a jaw-dropping sound in any environment.
- Vintage aesthetics combined with modern enhancements.
- Incredible playability and balance.
- Solid mahogany body with a longer upper horn for better balance and comfort.
- Durable and robust construction.
- Tone may be perceived as overly courteous or lacking in energy.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advanced Level Bass Players
FEATURES: 3-Point Adjustable Bridge
OTHER INFO: 2x Volume Knobs, 1x Master Tone Knob
Epiphone Allen Woody Rumblekat Bass, Wine Red
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Classic vintage tones with excellent focus and clarity
- Good sustain and depth for heavier styles of music
- Classy retro appearance with labeled tortoise-shell style control plate
- Enhanced tonal range and brightness with the maple top
- The mahogany neck may be too heavy for some players
- The pau ferro fingerboard may require periodic maintenance to keep it looking and feeling its best
- The wine red finish may not appeal to all players
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha
Yamaha has been producing basses for more than 40 years, and their instruments are highly sought after due to their great sound, superior construction and affordability.
Yamaha basses are known for their excellent balance between the highs and lows, with a tight low end and clear treble.
They also have a wide range of models to choose from, ranging from classic vintage-style basses to more modern designs. Yamaha’s attention to detail is evident in its use of high-grade materials, as well as its advanced electronics and custom pickups.
Despite their relative affordability, Yamaha bass guitars are still considered professional-level instruments that can be used in a variety of musical styles.
Popular Bass Guitar Models from (Yamaha)
Yamaha’s BB Series, TRBX Series, and the iconic RBX Series all boast great playability and affordability. The BB Series is perfect for those who want a classic vintage look but don’t want to compromise on modern features. The TRBX line is designed for modern bassists who want a mix of vintage and modern tones.
The RBX Series has some of the best playability on the market, with models featuring neck-through construction and custom pickups to give you that signature Yamaha sound. All three series are built to last and offer excellent value for money.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner To Intermediate
FEATURES: Classic pickup layout with a middle split-coil and a single-coil at the bridge
OTHER INFO: Master tone control to adjust overall resonance
Yamaha TRBX174 Bass Guitar, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Quality materials including lightweight solid alder body and sleek double cutaway design
- Easy access to all 24 frets
- Bolt-on, fast-action maple neck with snorkelling fingerboard for natural feel
- Not suitable for advanced players
- Does not come with a case or gig bag
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Features: YGD H5 Double-Coil pickups with alnico 5 magnets for powerful, hard-hitting output and articulate tone
OTHER INFO: String Gauges: 0.045 - 0.130
Yamaha TRBX605FM 5-String Bass, Matte Amber
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Powerful, articulate tone with beefy bass and well-defined highs
- Active/passive circuitry and 3-band EQ for versatile tonal shaping
- Smooth and responsive playability with a comfortable neck and fretboard
- Sleek and stylish design with a flamed maple veneer top
- 5th string expands the range and versatility of the instrument
- Great value for the price
- No included case
- Some players may prefer a narrower nut width
- Matte finish may show fingerprints and smudges more easily
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Does the Brand Really Matter?
When it comes to choosing a bass brands, many people are tempted to go for the most expensive option, believing that higher price tags equate to better quality. But does brand really matter when it comes to buying musical instruments?
The answer is yes and no. It’s true that some brands have earned a reputation for making top-notch instruments and that higher prices usually mean better quality. However, it’s important to remember that you don’t necessarily need the most expensive option in order to get a great-sounding bass.
Regarding the best bass brands, names like Fender, Music Man, and Ibanez are often at the top for their exceptional craftsmanship and versatile sound. These bass brands are recognized for their high-quality instruments and are popular among players of all levels.
When choosing the right bass brand, set a budget and stick to it. Try out a few bass guitars and buy the best one that fits your budget.
Keep it simple by looking for a classic four-string bass with frets. Starting with the basics is the best way to learn, even though fretless or 5- and 6-string basses may seem impressive.
Benefits of Playing the Bass
The bass guitar provides a full, round and balanced sound that complements the other instruments in an ensemble. It can be used to play melodies, rhythm lines or both at the same time. Bass players provide a driving force for any music group and offer an interesting musical perspective. Here are just a few of the benefits of playing the bass:
1. It adds depth and range to your music. The booming sound of a bass guitar fills out any genre of music, creating an immense soundscape that’s sure to amaze listeners. With its low-frequency range, it helps create a foundation for other instruments, giving songs more depth and range.
2. It’s easy to learn. Compared to other instruments, the bass is relatively easy to pick up and start playing quickly. Just a few basic chords, scales and techniques are required to start playing the bass.
3. It’s an important part of any band or orchestra. The bass is essential for any group performance; it provides the backbone and lays down the foundation upon which other instruments can build upon. Without it, there would be no structure and rhythm.
4. You can play a variety of different styles. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, pop or reggae, the bass guitar is one of the most versatile instruments out there and can be used in any genre of music.
Why Should You Play the Bass?
Playing the bass is a great way to express yourself musically, and it’s a lot of fun too! The different styles and techniques used in playing the bass make it an interesting instrument to learn. Plus, you get to enjoy all the benefits listed above.
Learning to play the bass can also help you develop important skills such as coordination, improvisation and creativity. Bass players often practice techniques like walking-bass lines, soloing and playing syncopated rhythms. This requires a great deal of dexterity and precision that will help you become a better all-around musician.
The bass is an important instrument in any music group, so having a good bass player makes a huge difference. Whether you’re part of a rock band or an orchestra, the bassist will always be the one providing the groove and helping to keep everyone together.
Finally, playing the bass can open up whole new avenues for you musically. It can help you explore new genres and styles or even compose your own unique pieces of music.
A History of Bass Guitars
Bass guitars have a long and illustrious history. Dating back to the early twentieth century, the bass guitar was developed as an accompaniment to stringed instruments such as the banjo and ukulele. Over time, the bass guitar was refined and improved to become the electric instrument we know today.
The first electric bass guitar was invented by Leo Fender in 1951, revolutionizing music with its low tones that could compete with the sound of the electric guitar.
In the late 1950s, jazz bassist Monk Montgomery showcased the electric bass guitar in his performances. This was quickly followed by Rickenbacker’s 4001 model, which Paul McCartney famously used in The Beatles. The ensuing decades saw the rise of genres like funk and hip-hop, which incorporated the sound of the bass guitar into their sound. Artists everywhere were finding new ways to use this instrument, and it became a staple of many genres, from jazz to rock.
Today, the bass guitar is an essential part of any band or ensemble. Jazz and rock bands began to adopt the electric version of the instrument, replacing their double bassists with electric versions.
The tone variations that the bass guitar allowed for were unprecedented and music was changed forever. From funk to hip hop, metal to pop, the bass guitar has become an essential ingredient for creating great music.
Bass Guitar Brands
Summary
From classic vintage vibes to modern and contemporary tones, the wide range of bass guitar brands out there offer something for every style and preference.
Fender, Music Man, and Ibanez are esteemed bass guitar companies known for their wide range of instruments that cater to diverse genres and skill levels, making them popular choices among bass players globally due to their craftsmanship and innovation.
Some notable Bass guitar manufacturers include:
- Fender: known for iconic models like the Precision and Jazz Bass.
- Music Man: celebrated for their innovative designs and high-quality instruments.
- Ibanez: great choice for contemporary musicians looking for an advantage.
- Yamaha: excellent choice for those who want a well-rounded instrument that is both affordable and reliable
- Rickenbacker: known for producing a wide range of bass guitars catering to different playing styles and preferences.
We hope this list of good bass guitar brands helped you narrow down your choices and the only way to truly find out which bass is right for you is to play them! So if you’re in the market for a new bass, take the time to explore the different good bass brands and models available.
Who knows – maybe your dream bass guitar awaits. Let us know which one you chose!
