Bass vs Guitar Which Should You Learn First
Everybody picks up a guitar. Far fewer pick up a bass, which is exactly why bass players never struggle to find a band. Here is how the two compare for someone starting from zero.
What each one does
The guitar plays chords and melodies and sits out front. The bass plays one note at a time, locks in with the drummer and holds the whole band together. In a room full of players, the bass is the one you feel in your chest.
Which is easier to start
Bass is usually faster to get playing in a band. Four strings, one note at a time, and simple root note lines are enough for real songs on day one. Guitar takes longer to make chords sound clean. Both take years to master, but the first month on bass is kinder.
Hands and size
Bass strings are thick and the frets are far apart, which can be a stretch for smaller hands. A short scale bass fixes that. See the bass guitar buying guide.
Cost to start
Both need an amplifier and a cable. Bass amps are built for low notes and cost about the same as a guitar amp of similar size. Strings cost more for bass but last much longer. Over the first year the two come out close.
Playing alone
This is the honest difference. A guitar is a complete instrument on the couch. A bass alone is a rhythm part looking for a band. If you mostly want to play by yourself, guitar gives more. If you want to be in a band soon, bass gets you there faster.
Can you switch later
Yes, and many players do. Fretboard knowledge, rhythm and ear training carry over. Plenty of great bass players started on guitar and plenty of guitarists keep a bass for recording.
Our take
Want to join a band? Bass. Want to sing and play at home? Guitar. Cannot decide? Guitar first, bass second, because the skills move across. Every instrument we ship is set up by hand on our bench in Athens, Tennessee first. Read what a guitar setup is to see what that covers.
Browse bass guitars and electric guitars. Questions? Call the shop at (423) 462-1894 and a real person will help you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bass easier than guitar?
Bass is faster to get playing in a band because simple root note lines fit real songs. Both take years to master.
Can I learn bass without learning guitar first?
Yes. Bass is its own instrument and many players start there.
Do I need a special amp for bass?
Yes. A bass amp is built to handle low notes. A guitar amp can be damaged by them.
Is a short scale bass good for a beginner?
Yes especially for smaller hands and younger players. The frets are closer together and it weighs less.
