I'm planning on buying a bass guitar soon, and though I've done a bit of research and somewhat narrowed my choice down, I'm still curious as to what potential bassists here on Notebook would recommend?
For clarity, I'm currently looking at the Squier Affinity and Classic Vibe Jaguar. Both are Fender, and I know professionals that have used the latter and been super happy with it, so that's what I'm leaning towards.
But I'm open minded. Still debating on whether a five string would be a good fit, not to mention I know next to nothing about amps or what to look for.
And if you're someone who doesn't know anything about that kind of stuff, do you have any song recommendations for me to learn? I've already got my eyes on songs by RHCP, FOB, TØP, and IDKHOW, to name a few.
First question: are you experienced in any way? If the answer is no, I'd recommend the Squier Affinity to start out, and a four string option. I've heard the frets are easier to play on and it's a nicer bass guitar option.
Also, throw in a really nice amp. We have an Orange Crush amp, and I recommend it a lot despite its price. A nice amp is an important tool for the journey in playing bass lol
I've played acoustic guitar for a couple of years now, so I'd like to think I'd know my way around a four or potentially five-string instrument. Plus I learned to play a bunch of bass lines on acoustic when I got bored, so there's that lol.
I've heard the Orange Crush brand has a great reputation for sound responsiveness, which I'm definitely willing to invest in. That said, would you recommend it over a Fender amplifier if the guitar I'm getting is also Fender? Or would the compatibility be the same for virtually any guitar and amp pairing?
Hm maybe @MJs-headin-to-Kool-Aid-hell knows a bit more than me.
I don't think itd be smart starting off on a five string just based on a musical standpoint because bass and guitar aren't played the same way you know?
I'd definitely recommend it over Fender amps– I put more trust in a company who specializes in amps and I myself play on an orange crush. But that's what I recommend ^^
jazz basses are the best to start out with. I've been playing one for…. close to a year now and mine's been pretty good to me. But I am going to buy me a new fretless one soon because they're neato. As for the amp, I've just been using a Squier SP-15. I don't really know though, I've been using the same gear since I started playing and haven't really tried anything else.
And yes, definitely start on a 4-string.
And learn scales and theory before you learn any song.
Also don't forget to learn the dropbass tuning because it's badass.
Thank you both so much for your input! I'm definitely leaning towards an Orange Crush for the amp and either the Jaguar or a jazz bass.
And as for scales and theory, do you know of any good sites/channels online I could learn from? I'll find something on my own, for sure, if not.
Man, I know I'm super late to the conversation, but a Mexican Fender Jazz Bass is an excellent starting one. I've had one for over six years now and she's never let me down. Very versatile for whatever technique you use, be it fingers, picking, slap, etc., and the right amps can change the tone to be whatever you want. Also, if you plan to save for another (admittedly way more expensive one), I'd recommend the Joe Dart Signature Ernie Ball bass. Vulfpeck put out a video demonstrating it and it sounds incredible for being a pretty simple design with flatwound strings.
