Best
Overall Bass Guitar
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Overall: Three position transformer to shape frequency response
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Best Feature: Long scale bass guitar of 34"
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Beginners Bass Guitars
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Overall: Lightweight and comfortable for extended playing/practice sessions
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Best Feature: 19 Narrow Tall frets
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Professionals Bass Guitars
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Overall: Low notes can be played in tune with ease
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Best Feature: Versatile Design
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TedScore™: 9/10
The bass guitar has had quite a journey since showing up in the mid-1900s. It started off as a must-have for making rhythm and keeping time in jazz, blues, and rock tunes. Today, it’s a **key player** in music production and writing.
From reggae to hip hop to metal, bass guitar has proven to be an essential instrument in the modern music landscape.
No matter what genre you’re playing, bass guitar is an incredibly versatile instrument with a range of styles and sounds. This guide will provide an overview of the different Bass Guitar types available, from vintage models to modern ones as well as information on their uses and playability.
By the end of this guide, you should better understand how to choose the right bass guitar for your needs.
What is a Bass Guitar?
A bass guitar is a stringed instrument that typically has four strings (though five and six-string models are becoming increasingly common). It’s tuned an octave lower than a regular guitar, meaning its notes are deeper and fuller. Bass guitars can be either acoustic or electric, though most commonly, they are electric.
The bass guitar is an electric guitar with the same general range as an acoustic guitar but with a much fuller and deeper, rich sound. The bass strings are generally thicker than those on an acoustic or electric guitar, allowing for more power when played.
Bass guitars also typically have fewer frets than regular guitars, making it easier to play lower notes.
Construction and Design of a Bass Guitar
Bass guitars have a wide variety of construction and design features that affect the sound they produce. Different woods, pickups, and hardware can all play a role in how your bass guitar sounds.
Parts of a Bass Guitar
I. Body
II. Neck
III. Fretboard
IV. Headstock
Electronics In a Bass
When it comes to bass guitars, things can get a bit more complicated than electric. You don’t need to use active pickups when you have an active preamp, which means various choices and combinations are available. You can opt for active systems, passive pickups, or blend the two together to get the ideal combination.
Preamps in Bass Guitars
For many bassists, an active EQ gives them more control and flexibility over their sound than a passive system. With an active setup, you’ll usually find at least one volume control plus a set of treble, mid and bass controls.
These controls allow you to shape your tone by boosting or cutting frequencies in different areas of the frequency spectrum. This is useful for quickly changing your sound, as it doesn’t require adjustments to the amplifier. You’ll also need a battery in an active system, which should be changed regularly to ensure it keeps working properly.
Passive systems don’t have quite as much control but can still shape the tone of your bass. Generally, you’d find one volume control and one tone control, plus a blend or additional volume knob if the bass has multiple pickups.
Many bass players prefer the natural rounded tone of this type of system for jazz, blues, and other similar styles. Passive systems don’t require a battery but can be more difficult to adjust quickly when needed.
Pickups in Bass Guitars
The bass pickups you choose are a crucial factor when it comes to the sound of your instrument. There are two main categories: active and passive, although these can also vary in size and shape. Active pickups need an added power source, such as a 9v battery, to work; this will need to be replaced every few months for optimal performance.
Generally speaking, there are three main types of bass pickups: the split-coil P-Bass style, the single coil J-Bass style and humbucker dual coil pickups.
Each type has its own distinct sound and provides a unique flavor to your playing. It pays to take the time to understand these differences so you can choose the right pickups for your bass.
How to Choose the Right Bass Guitar
When it comes to choosing the right bass guitar for your needs, there are several important factors you should consider.
First off, think about which type of sound you’re looking for and what style of music you’ll be playing. This will help narrow down your choices when it comes to body shape, neck construction, string gauge, and pickup type.
You should also consider your, as bass guitars can range from very affordable to quite expensive. Finally, don’t forget to factor in the ergonomics of the instrument, it should feel comfortable when you play it, and the hardware setup should be intuitive for your playing style.
How Many Strings Does a Bass Guitar Have?
A bass guitar typically has four strings, though sometimes five or even six strings can be found. These strings are usually tuned an octave lower than those of a regular electric guitar (EADGBE). By having these lower frequencies, the bass guitar provides a strong and powerful low-end sound in any mix.
This makes the music fuller and more punchy – just what you need to make your songs stand out!
When starting out with a bass guitar, it is recommended to begin with four strings since they are easier to play, but as you progress, you may want to experiment with five or even six strings. As the number of strings increases, so does the range of notes and styles that can be played on the bass guitar.
With more strings, you can reach lower notes as well as play chords, both of which are important for experienced players.
9 Different Types of Bass Guitars
1. Electric Bass Guitars
Electric bass guitars are the most popular type of bass guitar used today. They usually have four strings but sometimes can be found with five or six strings as well. Electric basses can be played in a wide variety of musical styles and have been used to create everything from punk rock to jazz fusion.
They are usually strung with steel strings and come in both fretted and fretless variations. The fretted versions are generally easier to play, but the fretless offers a more unique, expressive sound.
Yamaha’s BB 735A 5-String Bass Guitar is a great example of an electric bass. It features a big, bold sound with ample lows and highs along with the traditional tone that Yamaha is known for. The five-string configuration provides plenty of range, and the bolt-on construction makes it easy to customize. The neck is made of five-piece maple/mahogany, while the fingerboard is rosewood.
This gives the guitar a sweet tone without sacrificing sustain and clarity.
The electronics on this bass are top-notch, featuring a VSC7b single coil bridge pickup and a VSP7n split single-coil neck pickup. These provide plenty of punch and clarity, while the onboard three-band EQ allows you to shape your sound perfectly. The included Active/Passive switch lets you choose between a more traditional sound or modern tones.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to advanced players
FEATURES: 21 Medium Frets
OTHER INFO: .045 - .130 Gauges
Yamaha BB 735A 5-String Bass Guitar, Translucent Matte 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!
- Accentuated midrange for cutting through dense mixes.
- Lusciously smooth, deep bass tones with a slight sizzle to the high end.
- Incredible stability and bright, mellow sound from the combination of maple and mahogany neck.
- Thin neck profile for improved playability.
- Lightweight tuners for better balance and aesthetics.
- Minor quality control issues that require warranty service.
- Uncertain durability and longevity
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™.
2. Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar
The Roundback electro-acoustic bass guitar is a captivating blend of traditional acoustic and electric bass guitars. One of the hollow body bass guitars, it’s reminiscent of an acoustic bass, combines with magnetic pickups for easy amplification through an amplifier or PA system.
This versatility makes it perfect for dynamic live performances and studio recording sessions.
At the core of this exceptional bass guitar is the powerful K-2T pickup, ensuring effortless projection to large audiences while preserving the authentic acoustic essence. Whether you’re jamming at home or rocking on stage, the two-band equalizer allows you to finely adjust the bass and treble frequencies, adapting your tone to any musical style or environment.
Meticulously crafted with premium tonewoods, the Roundback guarantees exceptional tonal capabilities. The spruce top resonates with a harmonious and balanced sound, while the sapele mahogany neck ensures stability and controlled midrange tones.
Additionally, the ABS body enhances the tight low-end response and provides the durability required for frequent bass playing.
Setting itself apart from conventional acoustic bass guitars, the Roundback features a unique cutaway design. With unrestricted access to the upper frets, you can effortlessly explore melodic passages and delve into higher registers.
This ergonomic innovation enhances your playing experience and contributes to a brighter and more pronounced tone by minimizing unnecessary resonance.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner players
FEATURES: Overall Length: 1220mm
OTHER INFO: Right Hand Dexterity
Roundback Electro Acoustic 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!
- Access to upper frets
- Exceptional tonal capabilities crafted with premium tonewoods.
- Premium tonewoods
- Cream 3 ply binding
- Adjustable bass and treble
- Pickups may not be suitable for all styles of music
- Limited sound options
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™.
3. Acoustic Bass Guitars
The acoustic basses are well-suited for folk and blues music, offering a warm and round sound- perfect for small ensembles or solo performances.
Cordoba Mini is crafted with a magnificent all-mahogany build; this instrument exudes timeless elegance and offers an exceptional experience playing bass.
What sets the Cordoba Mini-II Bass MH-E apart is its small size without compromising on tone. Designed with the travelling musician in mind, this bass instrument is lightweight and conveniently compact, making it effortless to transport.
With a slightly extended scale length and greater body depth, this bass offers a powerful sound that defies its size. Tuned perfectly to Standard E, you can elevate your music wherever your journey leads.
Equipped with Cordoba electronics, this bass allows you to effortlessly plug in and play, retaining the sparkling acoustic goodness of its sound. The EQ controls enable you to shape your tone precisely, while the convenient onboard tuner ensures you always sound impeccable on stage or in the studio.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Pau ferro fretboard for a smooth and luscious playing experience
OTHER INFO: .037 - .090 gauges
Cordoba Mini-II Bass MH-E
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 and compact design for easy travel
- Extended scale length and greater body depth for powerful sound
- Precise EQ controls and onboard tuner for effortless tone shaping
- Premium-quality craftsmanship for a truly professional feel
- Heavenly aging process enhances tonal focus over time
- Limited range of tones
- Need to be careful with string tension
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™.
4. Semi-hollow and Hollowbody Bass Guitars
Step on stage and let the Epiphone Jack Casady Bass in Metallic Gold take you on a sonic journey like no other. This stunning instrument embodies the spirit and soul of one of the 60s era’s most legendary bassists, Jack Casady.
Known for his distinctive tone and groundbreaking performances with Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, Casady’s collaboration with Epiphone brings his timeless sound to the hands of today’s bassists.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this semi-hollow beauty boasts a maple hollow-body construction with a resonant mahogany center-block. The result? A tone that will captivate your audience with its warm and resonant qualities, rivalling even the most iconic solid-body designs.
Thanks to its hollow construction and classic F-holes, you’ll experience a pure, resonant bass tone that will leave a lasting impression.
Equipped with a JCB-1 low-impedance humbucker pickup, the Jack Casady Bass delivers a pure and resonant sound that active electronics simply cannot replicate. Finished off with a classic style 19:1 ratio machine heads and nickel hardware for added vintage charm, this premium bass guitar looks as good as it sounds.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Long scale bass guitar of 34"
OTHER INFO: Three position transformer to shape frequency response
Epiphone Jack Casady Bass, Metallic Gold
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!
- Vintage-inspired design resembling the Gibson Les Paul
- Lightweight and comfortable hollow-body construction
- Signature Jack Casady sound and tone
- Striking metallic gold finish
- Excellent playability and balance
- Limited pickup control and sound shaping options
- Higher price point than some competitors
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™.
5. Fretless Bass Guitars
Fretless bass guitars are quite rare and only for the most experienced players. It requires a precise sense of pitch and technique from the player to be able to follow directions accurately and play in tune.
Fretless bass guitars offer a unique sound that can be difficult to achieve on other types of instruments and allow for more expressive solos and melodic lines.
Ibenez’s EHB1005F Bass is a great example of a quality fretless bass guitar. The Arctic Ocean Matte finish is stunning, and the body is made from American Basswood, ensuring a durable and reliable instrument. The neck of this bass guitar is made with 9-piece Panga Panga/Walnut construction with graphite reinforcement rods for extra strength.
The fretboard of the EHB1005F has no frets but an abalone offset dot on the 12th and 24th frets, making it easier to distinguish notes. When it comes to pickups, this bass guitar features Bartolini BH2 pickups with a Vari-Mid 3-band EQ and EQ Bypass Switch. This allows for greater control of the sound when adjusting for different musical genres or styles.
The Ibanez EHB1005F is a remarkable fretless bass guitar with amazing sound and craftsmanship. Perfect for experienced players, it allows you to explore new sonic possibilities and gives you greater control of your instrument’s tone.
PERFECT FOR: intermediate to advanced players
FEATURES: Tuning: 1G, 2D, 3A, 4E
OTHER INFO: 045/.065/.085/.105
Ibanez EHB1005F Bass Workshop Fretless, Arctic Ocean Matte
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!
- Superb playability in the fretless design
- Lightweight body makes it comfortable to play onstage
- String locks and luminescent side dots for added reliability and visibility on the fretboard
- Gig bag included for safe transportation
- Finding the correct notes can be a bit tricky
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™.
6. Multi-scale or Fanned Fret Basses
Multi-scale or fanned fret basses, such as the Ibanez SRC6MS in Black Stained Burst Low Gloss, are a unique type of bass guitar designed with varying scale lengths for each string.
This design allows for optimized string tension and improved intonation across the instrument. The fanned frets, or multi-scale design, allow bassists to explore various playing styles and take advantage of the added tonal possibilities.
The Ibanez SRC6MS, in particular, has an Okoume body, 5pc Jatoba/Walnut neck, and Rosewood fretboard. It features a pair of Bartolini pickups that deliver an explosive and versatile sound. The bridge pickup offers raw power and presence, perfect for cutting through any mix with its impactful punchy sound.
Meanwhile, the neck pickup provides a warmer and smoother tone, ideal for blending harmoniously with other instruments and adding fatness to your riffs.
When it comes to hardware, the SRC6MS excels in reliability and strength. It features the Mono-rail bridge, which keeps your strings securely in place and ensures exceptional intonation. This means you can take this bass anywhere, confident that it will deliver consistent performance.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Frets : 24
OTHER INFO: .024/.034/.044/.056/.072/.084 Gauges
Ibanez SRC6MS, Black Stained Burst Low Gloss
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 playing experience
- Low notes can be played in tune with ease
- Maximum sound quality and clarity
- Versatile design
- Non-standard strings
- Difficult to find replacement parts
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™.
7. Upright or Double Bass Guitars
Unleash your musical prowess with the ultimate double-neck guitar, joining the ranks of legendary musicians like Mike Rutherford, Jimmy Page, and Michael Angelo Batio.
This exceptional LA model offers unparalleled versatility and sonic power, allowing you to effortlessly switch between a four-string bass and a six-string guitar.
The upper neck boasts a four-string bass with a linear split humbucker, enabling you to find your groove and lay down a solid foundation. Meanwhile, the lower neck houses a six-string guitar equipped with three single-coil pickups, eagerly awaiting your riffs, licks, and rhythmic chords.
Crafted with precision, the double-neck guitar features a Paulownia body with a captivating sunburst front, complemented by a sleek black back and sides. The maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional playability, while the C-profile and medium-jumbo frets ensure comfort and control.
The 22-fret guitar and 20-fret bass allow for a wide range of musical expression, further enhanced by the elegant black dot inlays on the fretboard.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Features three single-coil pickups for guitar and a powerful splitcoil pickup in for bass.
OTHER INFO: Comes with gigbag, jack cable, strap, plectrums, and a tremolo arm.
LA Double Neck Bass + Guitar by Gear4music, Sunburst
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!
- Versatile instrument for seamless bass and guitar playing
- Ideal for tracking, looping, and solo performances
- Sleek sunburst design with black finish
- Comfortable playability with C-profile neck and medium-jumbo frets
- Requires setup for individual preferences
- Double-neck design is heavier and takes getting used to
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™.
8. U-bass or Ukulele Bass
The U-bass, also known as the ukulele bass, is a unique and fascinating instrument that combines the portability and playability of a ukulele with the deep, rich tones of a bass guitar.
One notable example of this instrument is the Harley Benton Solid UkeBass Mahogany, which has gained popularity among musicians for its exceptional sound and affordable price.
The Harley Benton Solid UkeBass Mahogany is constructed with a solid mahogany body, providing a warm and resonant tone. Mahogany is a popular tonewood choice for bass guitars because it produces a rich low-end response. This tonal characteristic makes the instrument perfect for genres such as jazz, blues, and folk, where a deep and mellow bass sound is desired.
The UkeBass features a compact size, making it extremely portable and convenient for musicians on the go. Its short scale length, typically around 20 inches, allows for comfortable playing and easy manoeuvrability, especially for players with smaller hands or those transitioning from the ukulele.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner bassists
FEATURES: HB Piezo pickup
OTHER INFO: Scale: 512 mm
Harley Benton Solid UkeBass Mahogany
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 tag
- Smaller size makes it ideal for travel or cramped stages
- Stylistically unique sound
- Easy to learn and play
- Not as powerful or bassy as a regular bass guitar
- Limited range compared to longer scale instruments
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™.
9. Piccolo Bass Guitars
The Squier Sonic Bronco Bass in Black is a powerful and versatile instrument designed to make you the star of the show. Equipped with a ceramic pickup, this bass delivers a sparkling tone reminiscent of classic rock ‘n’ roll, ensuring you’ll be heard loud and clear in any musical setting.
The master tone control allows you to shape the sound to your liking, giving you the flexibility to adapt to any style of performance.
Its sleek maple neck with a comfortable C-shaped profile feels natural in your hands, allowing you to express your creativity effortlessly. The ergonomic design eliminates strain, making it perfect for long rehearsals and live performances.
Built with reliability in mind, this bass features a four-saddle bridge that ensures your strings stay in place and provides enhanced tuning stability. The high-quality chrome hardware adds a touch of elegance and makes you stand out on stage.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: 19 Narrow Tall frets
OTHER INFO: .045-.105 Gauges
Squier Sonic Bronco Bass LRL, 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!
- Excellent quality for the price
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended playing/practice sessions
- Stylish vintage design
- Easy to adjust for optimal setup
- Could benefit from improved tuners
- May not appeal to players seeking a heavier bass feel
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™.
What Size Bass Guitar Should You Get?
When deciding on the size of a bass guitar, there are two main options: short-scale basses and long-scale bass guitars.
1. Short Scale Bass Guitars
Short-scale bass guitars are typically shorter than standard-sized guitars and usually between 24″ to 30″. These guitars provide easy access to the upper frets, making them ideal for smaller hands.
They produce a softer sound due to their shorter string tension, allowing for more dexterity when playing faster rhythms.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Scale Length: 30''
OTHER INFO: Frets: 20
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang Bass LRL, Olympic 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!
- Vintage look and sound with a shorter scale length
- Classic Mustang design provides great intonation and playability
- Affordable price for what you get in terms of quality and sound
- Lightweight body makes it comfortable to hold
- Limited tonal range
- String buzz can be an issue with lower action settings
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™.
2. Long Scale Bass Guitars
Long-scale bass guitars are typically between 34″ to 36″ in length and offer a much punchier tone. Their longer strings require more force when playing, giving the player a heavier sound.
The longer scale length allows more notes to be played in a single octave, making the instrument easier. Long-scale bass guitars also have more sustain than short-scale instruments and are great for jazz and rock music.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to advanced players
FEATURES: Fender USA NPS strings in gauges .045 - .105
OTHER INFO: 20 Medium Jumbo Frets
Fender Player Precision Bass MN, Buttercream
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!
- Modern style with vintage touches
- Smooth playing maple neck
- Lightweight alder body
- High output split single-coil Precision bass pickup
- Saddle may move slightly out of place
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™.
Bass Guitar Types
Summary
Bass guitars come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each suited for different musical styles and performance needs. From the classic jazz tones of the Fender Jazz Bass to the shorter scale of a U-bass or ukulele bass, the world of bass guitars has something for everyone.
Whether you’re starting out or looking to upgrade your sound, consider all the options and pick what’s right for you.
So there you have it: a brief overview of different types of bass guitars and their unique characteristics. Now that you know more about the available types, what kind will you choose?
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Let’s get the conversation started. Happy playing!
FAQ's
Several types of bass guitars are based on their shape, sound, and construction. Common types include electric bass, acoustic bass, upright bass, fretless bass, and extended-range bass. Each type offers a unique sound and playing experience.
The three main types of basses are electric, acoustic, and upright. Electric bass guitars are the most popular type of bass and have a distinct sound produced by electrical pickups. Acoustic basses also have a unique tone but use strings to vibrate its body instead of electricity. Upright basses are typically used in jazz and classical genres and require specialized techniques to play.
The differences in bass guitars include the number of strings, body shape and material, neck profile, scale length, pickup configuration, and electronics. These factors can affect the tone, playability, and versatility of the instrument.
The two main types of bass guitars are electric and acoustic. Electric bass guitars use magnetic pickups to amplify the sound, while acoustic basses rely solely on their body shape to create a bigger sound with more resonance. Both types of instruments have their own unique features and benefit from different playing styles.
A 4-string bass is generally considered to be better for beginners because it is easier to learn and has fewer strings to focus on. It also offers a more direct sound, with more clarity in the low-end range and less muddiness. The 5-string bass offers more flexibility and an extended range, making it better suited for experienced players who want to explore different styles and techniques. This versatility comes at the cost of complexity, so those who are just starting out may find it easier, to begin with a 4-string bass.