Best
Overall Bass Guitar
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Overall: Powerful bridge pickup to cut through the mix
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Best Feature: Warm neck pickup perfect for blending in with other instruments
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Beginner Bass Guitar
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Overall: Versatile tone options with the Dynamix J pickups
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Best Feature: Lightweight and comfortable design for extended playing sessions
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Professional Bass Guitar
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Overall: Quality hardware and electronics ensure reliable performance.
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Best Feature: Compact size makes it easy to carry and play for long periods.
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TedScore™: 9/10
The world of bass guitars is full of variety and excitement, just like the music they make. Exploring different types of bass guitars feels like going on a musical journey that can rock out a fantastic song, get into a funky beat, jazz up an improv, or set the tone for a country tune.
Learning about these excellent bass guitars is like choosing the best character in a video game; each bass has unique abilities, perfect for rocking out to metal, playing blues, or creating beautiful classical music.
If you’re pumped up like I am, stick around, and let’s unravel the secrets behind that powerful beat of the band together. Who’s ready to groove?
Exploring the 10 Different Types of Bass Guitars
The world of bass guitars is vast and varied, with a seemingly endless array of options to choose from. Below, we’ll explore the 10 most popular bass guitar types:
1. Electric Bass Guitar: Ibanez GSR180 GIO Bass, Black
The Ibanez GSR180 GIO Bass is a masterpiece in design and functionality. Ibanez has always been known for their exceptional craftsmanship, and this bass is no exception.
The body is constructed from poplar, which not only gives it a lightweight feel but also delivers a fantastic high-end with crisp lows and a compact mid-range.
The maple neck fits your hand like a glove, providing maximum control over the instrument with a firm but freeing grip. The neck is fronted with a New Zealand pine fretboard that provides a smooth surface to accurately play your basslines with precision and articulation.
Equipped with a pair of Dynamix J pickups at the neck and bridge, the GSR180 is incredibly versatile, delivering sweet mellow tones as well as a driven, destructive punch.
The individual volume controls for each pickup, and a shared master tone allow you to create your desired soundscape with clarity and intonation.
The Ibanez GSR180 GIO Bass is a perfect combination of looks and functionality, making it one of the most affordable electric bass guitars around.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Scale length of 34’’
OTHER INFO: 22 medium frets
Ibanez GSR180 GIO Bass
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 comfortable design for extended playing sessions
- Versatile tone options with the Dynamix J pickups
- Sleek and professional black finish
- Suitable for a wide range of musical genres
- Affordable price point for intermediate level players
- No included case or gig bag
- Passive pickups may not be suitable for players seeking a more aggressive tone
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 Bass Guitar: Roundback Electro Acoustic Bass Guitar by Gear4music, Black
The Roundback Electro Acoustic Bass Guitar by Gear4music is the perfect blend of heritage and innovation.
The first thing you’ll notice is the eye-catching black finish, complimented by a cream 3-ply binding to give it an elegant overall aesthetic. It features a cutaway design, providing you with easy access to the upper frets.
The body is made of ABS material and contains premium tonewoods, giving you a tight low-end and controlled midrange with a pronounced top-end. The K2T pickup and two-band equaliser provide great sound when playing, either amplified or unplugged.
The thermally treated, oiled poplar laminate fingerboard and bridge offer excellent playability. Finally, the regular bass chrome tuners add stability while playing. With all this in mind, the Roundback is sure to take your sound to new heights!
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Length: 1220mm
OTHER INFO: Right-handed 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!
- Affordable price point for a high-quality instrument
- Versatile and adaptable for different playing styles and environments
- Easy to play with the cutaway design and comfortable neck
- Great sound quality with premium tonewoods and pickup
- Not ideal for advanced players.
- Sound is basic compared to other models with professional quality pick-ups.
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. Semi-Hollow Bass Guitar: Epiphone Jack Casady Bass, Metallic Gold
The next bass guitar in our lineup is the Epiphone Jack Casady semi-hollow bass guitar. With its vintage ivory finish, this instrument not only looks beautiful but has some amazing technical features to offer.
The body of the Epiphone Jack Casady is composed of mahogany and a Basswood top, both of which contribute to its unique tone. The neck is made from maple, a tonewood that has been thermally treated for improved stability and tone.
It also features a Laurel-oiled fingerboard which makes it incredibly smooth and perfect for long sessions.
The pickups of the Epiphone Jack Casady are designed to be ideal for semi-hollow construction, offering a rich and balanced tone. They are also equipped with two volume knobs and a tone knob, allowing you to control your sound easily.
The Epiphone Jack Casady is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a guitar that performs well live. It has also been finished with high-quality chrome hardware, which makes it an aesthetically pleasing instrument as well.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: Scale Length: 34
OTHER INFO: Strings Gauges: 10-46
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!
- Finishing touches include body binding and Jack's signature
- Rich and balanced tone from pickups
- Smooth and sustainable fingerboard
- High-quality chrome hardware
- Not suitable for more extreme styles of music.
- May require bit of extra time to adjust to the strings.
- Noisy when played with higher levels of distortion or fuzz.
- Neck pickup could be improved in terms of clarity.
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. Fretless Bass Guitar: Fender Player Jazz Bass Fretless PF, 3-Tone Sunburst
Fretless bass guitars have been around for many years, but few could match the quality and craftsmanship of the Fender Player Jazz Bass Fretless.
The body is made from Alder and painted in a beautiful distressed 3-Tone Sunburst color that looks like it’s spent days out in the sun.
The neck of this instrument is constructed with hard maple wood and is topped with a Pau Ferro fingerboard. It has a scale of 34″ and a nut width of 1.5, perfect for those who want to explore the fretless sound.
The Player Series hardware and pickups give this bass an unbeatable tone that will have you playing for hours. The detailed pattern scaring and weathered hardware make this bass an eye-catching instrument.
Trev made sure to include Inlaid Fret Line Markers along the neck as markers and inlays which makes it a true classic that is accessible to everyone.
For those looking for an instrument that stands out, the Fender Player Jazz Bass Fretless is perfect. Its quality and craftsmanship makes it a great choice for any level of bass player!
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate
FEATURES: Modern ''C'' profile
OTHER INFO: Alder body
Fender Player Jazz Bass Fretless PF, 3-Tone 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 sound that excels in any genre
- Fretless fingerboard allows for smooth slides and glissandos
- High-quality construction and materials at an affordable price
- Modern "C" profile neck with satin finish for comfortable playing
- Inlaid fret line markers for precise playing
- Iconic Jazz Bass design with a rich history
- Fretless fingerboard may not be suitable for all players
- Some may prefer a different pickup configuration or additional controls
- Case not included
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. Extended Range Bass Guitar: Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3QV, Purple Phaze
When you’re looking for a bass guitar with power, definition and a wide-ranging sound, the Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3QV in Purple Phaze is your go-to. This stunning extended-range bass is loaded with powerful pickups that provide plenty of vibrance and phenomenal low-end tones.
The Jackson Medium-Output humbucker in the bridge has a colorful, balanced tone perfect for driving rhythms and creating sharp, precision sounds.
When you switch to the Medium-Output humbucker in the neck, you’ll experience a slightly warmer and softer sound that still carries plenty of character.
The three band EQ on this bass allows you to further shape your sound so you can find the perfect tone for your style. There’s even a push/pull volume knob that switches between active and passive voices, giving you access to a variety of different sounds.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: 24, Jumbo Frets
OTHER INFO: .045-.130 Gauges
Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3QV, Purple Phaze
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!
- Great sound with plenty of definition each note
- Wide range of tonal options for any genre
- Smooth playability on the fretboard
- Sturdy hardware for reliable playing
- Limited tonal options compared to more advanced basses
- Active/passive options may require some experimentation for the desired sound
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. Double Bass Guitars: LA Double Neck Bass + Guitar by Gear4music, Sunburst
Double bass guitars are the ideal companion for any guitarist, providing an extra layer of depth to their sound. The LA Double Neck Bass + Guitar by Gear4music offers a unique combination of both bass and guitar capabilities in one instrument.
The top neck features four strings in a linear split humbucker configuration giving you access to warm, throbbing bass tones that you can use to layer and drive your rhythm section. The lower six-string neck is blessed with three single coil pickups, giving you access to soaring lead guitar lines or chunky, powerful riffs.
The versatility of this instrument also extends to the tremolo bridge, which allows for a huge range of dynamic playing styles, from subtle vibrato to daring, creating a wide variety of textures.
Whether you’re busking or recording in the studio, the double-neck guitar has everything you need for an effortless performance.
From jazz fusion to metal, LA Double Neck Bass + Guitar by Gear4music is ready for any style. Switch effortlessly between bass and guitar with one instrument and add dynamic character to your performance, unleashing new possibilities for your sound.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Scale Length Guitar: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: Scale Length Bass: 34"
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!
- Easily switch between guitar and bass sounds
- Tremolo bridge adds extra tonal possibilities
- Two necks provide plenty of space to experiment with technique and composition
- Durable construction and bolt-on neck for easy maintenance
- Tuners are sealed die-cast for accurate tuning
- Not the best choice for low action as the extra necks can be bulky
- Requires extra practice to become comfortable
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. 12-string Bass Guitars: Schecter dUg Pinnick DP-12 12-string Bass Guitar - Satin Black
The Schecter dUg Pinnick DP-12 12-string Bass Guitar is the ultimate instrument for making your music sound epic. This bass has an incredible 4 sets of 3 octaved strings to give the natural chorus effect.
It also features a Seymour Duncan Pro Active APB-1 split-coil pickup for punch and clarity in your sound. With a Thin ‘C’ shape neck and an ebony fingerboard with 16″ radius, the dUg Pinnick DP-12 will be easy to handle even with all those strings.
The body is made from mahogany and has a satin black finish. Other elements include Luminlay glow in the dark side dots, metal knurled knobs, and a diamond custom bass bridge. This is the perfect bass for anyone who wants to create an epic sound with a unique instrument.
PERFECT FOR: Advance Player
FEATURES: Ebony fingerboard with 16" radius.
OTHER INFO: .050, .050, .095/ .040, .040, .070/.030, .030, .060/ .018, .018, .040
Schecter dUg Pinnick DP-12 12-string Bass Guitar
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!
- Epic sound thanks to the natural chorus effect of the string sets.
- Punch and clarity provided by the Seymour Duncan pickup.
- Reliable construction with a carbon fiber-reinforced maple neck.
- Classic look with a Satin Black finish.
- Luminlay glow in the dark side dots make fret positions easier to find on stage.
- Can be difficult to keep all 12 strings in tune, especially when playing live.
- May take some time to get used to the unique sound.
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. Multi-Scale Bass Guitar: Ibanez SRMS805 Bass Workshop, Tropical Seafloor
Meet the Ibanez SRMS805 Bass Workshop in Tropical Seafloor – your gateway to tonal bliss. This multi-masterpiece is designed with sheer playability and an extensive range of tones in mind, allowing you to explore sounds beyond what’s possible on traditional basses.
The body is crafted from a stunning combination of Okoume wood and poplar burl top, giving the bass a beautiful look that’s sure to grab admirers. It’s then balanced perfectly by the 5pc jatoba/walnut neck with multi-scale fretboard, which offers outstanding comfort for those long studio sessions.
For tone, you can rely on the legendary Bartolini BH2 pickups – a powerful bridge pickup and warm neck pickup that provide an incredible range of sounds. You also tailor your tone further with Ibanez Custom Electronics three band EQ, plus the active-way mid-frequency focus switch.
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Number Of Frets : 24
OTHER INFO: .045/.065/.080/.100/.130 gauges
Ibanez SRMS805 Bass Workshop, Tropical Seafloor
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!
- Incredible playability for complex runs and licks
- Punchy bass sound with a wide tonal range
- Powerful bridge pickup to cut through the mix
- Warm neck pickup perfect for blending in with other instruments
- Active three-band EQ control section lets you dial in your perfect tone
- Mono-rail bridge for reliable, strong string performance
- High price tag
- Not suitable for amateurs
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. Five-String Bass Guitar: Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass MN, Black
For players who are ready to take their sound to the next level, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass is sure to deliver. This classic instrument is equipped with powerful Fender-designed alnico single-coil humbucking pickups, giving it a loud and full-bodied tone that can easily fill any track.
The bridge pickup provides a higher-output, crisp sound that will explode with chunkiness and fatness, while the neck pickup is slightly warmer, allowing you to add softer dynamics and tones to your basslines.
The comfortable maple neck fits snugly in the palm of your hand, and its C-shape makes it easy to play. On the maple fretboard, you’ll find 20 narrow frets that give you complete freedom to improvise at will. On top of all that, the nickel hardware and glossy polythane finish add a touch of vintage charm to complete the look.
Whether you’re into jazz or rock, this powerful 5-string bass is sure to give you the sound you need.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Scale Length: 34"
OTHER INFO: Dimensions: 4.00x15.50x52.00 Inch
Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass MN, 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!
- Classic vintage vibe look and feel
- High quality build with durable hardware
- Powerful single coil alnico pickups for a bright, fat sound
- Full bodied low end tone with excellent sustain
- Precise intonation due to string through body bridge design
- Limited tonal controls
- Lack of pickup switching
- Tuners may require occasional adjustments
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™.
10. Piccolo Bass Guitar: Fender Player Mustang Bass PJ PF, Aged Natural
Piccolo bass guitar? That sounds like something that belongs in an orchestra, not at a rock concert! But this Fender Player Mustang Bass PJ PF isn’t your average bass.
It packs all the power and punch of a P-bass and J-bass pickups into one compact package to let you unleash sonic explosions with your music – making it an epic bass guitar that stands out in this list. Its maple neck offers comfort for hours of playing, and its pau ferro fretboard offers a deep, warm resonance for true musical expression.
While the FENDER PLAYER MUSTANG BASS PJ PF may have limited color options, its versatile tone, comfortable playability, and solid build quality make it a worthwhile investment for bass players.
The four-saddle bridge and Fender vintage-style tuning machines provide stability and reliability, and I’ve noticed that the synthetic bone nut helps to maintain strong resonance. This bass is truly a stage-ready package that will make your sound soar!
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Scale Length: 30"
OTHER INFO: Gauges .045 - .105
Fender Player Mustang Bass PJ PF, Aged Natural
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!
- Compact size makes it easy to carry and play for long periods.
- Versatile PJ pickup configuration offers a wide range of tonal options.
- Quality hardware and electronics ensure reliable performance.
- Limited tonal options compared to full-scale 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™.
Active vs Passive Bass Guitar
The two main categories of bass guitars are active and passive. Below is a breakdown of their differences:
Active Bass Guitar
An active bass guitar is an instrument that incorporates a preamp circuit within the body. This preamp is powered by a battery and is responsible for boosting the signal of the bass pickups, allowing for a stronger and more consistent sound.
One of the primary benefits of an active bass guitar is its ability to produce a stronger, more defined sound with less noise and interference. This is especially useful in situations where the bass player needs to cut through a mix or play in a loud, noisy environment.
Additionally, the tone shaping controls allow for a wide range of tonal possibilities, making the active bass guitar a versatile instrument for a variety of musical styles.
However, active bass guitars do require a battery to operate, which can be a hassle if the battery dies during a performance. Some players may prefer the more natural, organic sound of a passive bass guitar.
Passive Bass Guitar
A passive bass guitar is an instrument that does not have any built-in electronics or preamp. Instead, the signal from the pickups is sent directly to the amp, resulting in a raw, unfiltered sound.
While this may seem like a disadvantage compared to active bass guitars, there are many benefits to choosing a passive bass guitar. For one, they tend to be less expensive than their active counterparts, making them a great option for beginner or budget-conscious players.
Passive bass guitars also have a warmer, more natural tone than active bass guitars. The lack of built-in electronics means that the sound is not altered in any way, allowing you to fully embrace the natural sound of the wood and pickups.
Lastly, passive bass guitars are often lighter and simpler in design than active bass guitars. This makes them easier to play for extended periods of time and can be a great option for those who prefer a more traditional, stripped-down approach to playing.
Bass Guitar Sizes
Long Scale Bass Guitar
Long scale basses offer a full range of tones and they’re often used in professional settings. The strings are longer than on short scale models, giving them more tension and a warmer sound.
They can also be strung with heavier gauge strings to give them more punch and sustain. Long scale basses are versatile enough for many different styles, from rock to funk and jazz to metal. A long scale bass guitar typically has a scale length of 34 inches or more.
Short Scale Bass Guitar
Short scale bass guitars usually have a scale length of 30 inches or less. This makes it easier to play, and they produce a slightly brighter sound. They’re often used in punk, rockabilly and other genres where an edgier tone is desired.
Short scale basses also great for beginners, as the smaller neck allows more comfortable playing.
Different Types Of Bass Guitars
Summary
I’ve had a blast exploring the world of bass guitars with you! From the classic 4-string basses that have been rocking for years to the powerful 5- and 6-string models, there’s something for every style. Those extra strings bring out the deep sounds, don’t they?
Let’s not forget the acoustic basses with their natural sound and the cool fretless basses that slide between notes. They seem to have a personality of their own! Then there are the upright basses—big instruments that grab your attention with their strong presence and rich tones.
Here’s a cheeky peek into what we’ve discovered:
- 4-String Basses: Your go-to for classic lines and straightforward grooves.
- 5-String and 6-String Basses: Expanding horizons with extra low-end rumbles.
- Fretless Basses: For the jazz cats who love a smooth, gliding sound.
- Upright Basses: A nod to tradition with a powerful acoustic punch.
Whether you’re just starting or you’re a pro, there’s a bass guitar that suits your style. So, here’s to these fantastic four-string (and sometimes more!) instruments. Cheers to the bass guitar, the heartbeat of our beloved tunes!
man, this list is solid. got me looking at semi-hollow basses like the Epiphone Jack Casady, which is super cool. didn’t know much ’bout them before but now i’m tempted. they’ve gotta have a unique sound with that body type, right? anyone here got experience playing one?
Absolutely, the semi-hollow body on the Epiphone delivers a warm and resonant tone that’s perfect for jazz and blues. It’s quite versatile too, so you’ll enjoy exploring its range. Definitely a unique sound compared to solid bodies.
Very interesting breakdown of active vs passive basses, Robert Emery. However, I believe there’s a slight misconception about the power dynamics and signal noise in passive bass guitars that wasn’t fully addressed. Passive basses, while simpler in design, can achieve a wide range of tones through the right combination of pedals and amps without necessarily being inferior to active ones in terms of quality. It’s all about how you use them.
Well I didn’t write the article, but thanks for supporting Ted’s List anyway!
Hey there! I’ve been playing bass on and off for a few years but always stuck to what felt comfortable, you know? Reading about all these different types of bass guitars in your article, especially the part about piccolo bass guitars, got me thinking. How does the sound of a piccolo bass match up to a standard one in a band setting? Does it blend well or stand out too much? Really keen to try one but don’t wanna sink the money in without knowing it’ll fit with my garage band’s vibe. Cheers!