Bass Guitar Buying Guide for Beginners

Every band needs a bass player, and good ones are always in demand. Choosing a first bass is simpler than choosing a guitar, because there are fewer decisions to make.

Start with four strings

A standard bass has four strings tuned like the lowest four strings of a guitar, one octave lower. Five string basses add a lower string and are useful in some styles, but nearly every bass line you will learn in your first years fits on four.

Short scale or long scale

Scale length is the distance the string spans from nut to bridge. A long scale bass is the standard size. A short scale bass has a shorter neck with the frets closer together. It is lighter and easier to reach around, which suits younger players, smaller hands and guitarists who double on bass.

Pickups in plain terms

The split pickup found on a Precision style bass gives a round, punchy sound that sits well in almost any song. Other basses add a second pickup near the bridge for a brighter, more detailed tone. For a first bass, either works. Pick the one that feels good in your hands.

What else you need

A bass needs a bass amplifier, not a guitar amp, plus a cable, a strap and a tuner. Bass strings last a long time, but a fresh set brings back the brightness when the sound goes dull.

Set up before it ships

A bass with strings set too high is hard work for a new player. We adjust string height, neck relief and intonation on our bench in Athens, Tennessee before every bass leaves the shop.

See all of our bass guitars.