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 bass guitar is the backbone of modern music. Its rich, deep tones define genres and set the groove for any song.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore your musical passion or an experienced musician seeking new challenges, there’s a type of bass guitar that can fit every need.
From classic upright acoustic models to modern electric basses, the range of options can be overwhelming.
To make it easier to find the perfect one for you, let’s take a look at some of the different types of bass guitars available.
A Brief History of Bass Guitar
The history of the bass guitar is a groovy tale that dates back to the 1930s. It all started when the mighty double bass, also known as the upright bass, was the go-to instrument for bassists. But as music styles evolved and the need for a more portable and versatile bass arose, a new kind of instrument was born.
In the 1930s, the first electric bass guitar prototype was developed by a man named Paul Tutmarc. It was a fretted instrument that resembled a guitar but with a longer neck and thicker strings tuned an octave lower.
Tutmarc named it the “Audiovox 736 Bass Fiddle” and it quickly caught the attention of musicians.

However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the bass guitar truly took off. The iconic Fender Precision Bass was introduced in 1951, and it quickly became the standard for bassists all over the world. With its sleek design and ability to produce a consistent sound, it was a game-changer.
As rock and roll began to dominate the music scene, bassists played an increasingly important role in bands. They were no longer just in the background but were a driving force in the music.
Bassists like James Jamerson, Jaco Pastorius, and Flea helped push the boundaries of what the bass guitar was capable of, introducing new techniques and sounds.
Today, the bass guitar continues to play a vital role in all kinds of music genres, from jazz to metal. It’s the foundation of the rhythm section, the backbone of the band, and a source of soulful grooves that make people want to dance.
The Role of Bass Guitar
in Music
The bass guitar is an essential instrument in any music ensemble, providing the foundation for the rhythm section. It is responsible for creating the groove and setting the tempo for the rest of the band to follow.
The bass guitar is particularly important in genres such as funk, soul, and jazz, where it often takes on a more prominent role in the music.
In addition to providing low-end frequencies, the bass guitar can also serve as a melodic instrument, playing complex and intricate lines that add depth and texture to the music.
Who Should Play the
Bass Guitar?
The bass guitar is an indispensable tool for any musician. It can fill out the rhythm section of a band and keep the tempo steady. Even if you’re not in a full band, the low frequencies of the bass can add some extra oomph to your tracks.
Whether you want to flesh out your rockabilly duo or take charge of the rhythm section of your jazz ensemble, the bass is a great way to do it.
The bass can also be a great solo instrument. With its wide range of tones, it can be used to create intricate melodies and lively grooves. It can even take the lead role in a band, providing the driving force behind everyone else’s playing.
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.
Electronics in a Bass Guitar
When it comes to creating the right sound for a bass guitar, the electronics play a crucial role. In particular, preamps and pickups are essential components that shape the tone and output of the instrument.
Preamps
Preamps are electronic circuits that amplify the signal from the bass guitar’s pickups. They are often built into the instrument itself and can be either active or passive.
Active preamps require a power source like a battery to function and provide a stronger, clearer signal.
Passive preamps, on the other hand, do not require power and may produce a more natural, organic tone.
One advantage of using a preamp is that it allows for greater control over the bass guitar’s sound. For example, some preamps may include tone controls, volume knobs, or even built-in effects like distortion or compression.
Additionally, preamps can help compensate for the loss of high-end frequencies that can occur when using long cables or other equipment in the signal chain.
Pickups
Pickups are the devices that capture the vibrations of the bass guitar’s strings and convert them into an electrical signal that can be amplified. They typically consist of one or more magnets wrapped in coils of wire. When the strings vibrate, they create a fluctuating magnetic field that induces an electrical current in the coils, which is then sent to the preamp.
Different types of pickups can produce different tones and responses. For example, single-coil pickups tend to have a brighter, more articulate sound, while humbucker pickups produce a warmer, more rounded tone.
Some bass guitars may even have multiple pickups, allowing the player to blend different sounds together.
Bass Guitar Sizes
The size of a bass guitar can affect the sound, playability and comfort of playing. There are two main categories of bass guitars: long scale and short scale.
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.
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 types of bass guitars:
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. Its maple neck offers comfort for hours of playing, and its pau ferro fretboard offers a deep, warm resonance for true musical expression.
The four-saddle bridge and Fender vintage-style tuning machines add stability and reliability, while the synthetic bone nut helps to keep your resonance strong. 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™.
Different Types Of Bass Guitars
Summary
The bass guitar is one of the most important instruments in any musician’s repertoire. With a rich history, multiple types and styles, as well as an incredible range of tones, it’s no surprise that the bass guitar has become iconic across genres.
From electric basses to acoustic basses, fretless to fretted models, each instrument offers unique benefits and capabilities.
No matter your playing style, there is a bass guitar that can provide the sound and feel you’re looking for.
So, which type of bass guitar do you prefer, and why? Share your opinion in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation about the world of bass guitars!
FAQ's
There are several types of bass guitars, including electric, acoustic, fretless, five-string, six-string, upright, short-scale, and extended-range bass guitars. Each type of bass guitar offers its own unique set of sound characteristics and playing styles, making them popular options for many different genres.
The four main bass instruments that are widely used in music today are the string bass, the bass guitar, the tuba (also known as a bass horn), and the bassoon (a type of woodwind instrument).
These four bass instruments are capable of producing low-pitched sound that resonates with listeners and allows them to feel the beat of the music. This depth of sound is often described as having a thumping driving force behind it and can help propel a piece of music to new heights.
The choice between a P bass (Precision bass) and a J bass (Jazz bass) ultimately comes down to personal preference and the musical style you are playing. P-style basses generally produce more mid-range tones that are suitable for genres like rock, funk, and blues.
Meanwhile, J-style basses have a powerful low-end tone with bright treble tones that are ideal for slap bass styles. If you’re playing many different types of music, then it’s worth considering both P and J style acoustic bass guitars as they can both be used for a wide variety of genres.
A four string bass is generally considered to be better suited for most styles of music than a five string bass. This is due to the fact that a four string has tighter, punchier sounds and can provide more power and clarity when playing.
Additionally, with fewer strings, it’s easier to make accurate notes on the fretboard and develop good intonation skills. The lack of a fifth string also allows for easier fretting and better control of natural harmonics.
Finally, four strings are lighter and typically more comfortable to play on stage or in the studio. All these aspects make the four string bass an ideal choice for many styles of music.
If you’re a beginner looking to learn how to play the bass, it’s best to start with an acoustic basses or electric bass guitar. These types of basses allow for easy volume and tone adjustments as you learn. Acoustic bass guitars offer a warmer, more subtle sound, which is great for beginners.
The size of the instrument is important to consider, especially if you have smaller hands or want a more portable option. In this case, short-scale electric bass guitars or travel acoustic bass guitars may be the way to go.
A bass guitar typically measures around 4 feet in length and has a scale length of around 34 inches. It is larger than a regular guitar and has a deeper, lower sound due to its longer strings and lower tuning.