What to Know When Buying a Bass Guitar
Since its inception almost 60 years ago, the electric bass has found its way into nearly every form of popular music. If you're looking to buy your first bass or upgrade from your current one, there are a few things to consider.
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Budget
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Basses run from a couple hundred dollars to several thousand for custom models. Don't buy a bass simply because it's cheap or expensive; buy it because it feels good in your hands and pleases your ear.
Celebrities
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Although many artist-endorsed models are fine instruments, often the manufacturer will include extra custom work not available on their mass-produced models.
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Size
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Typical scale length for a bass neck runs around 34 inches. Some can stretch as far as 35. The longer scale may be difficult for those with shorter arms. Short-scale basses (30 to 32 inches) may be the solution.
Weight
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Materials contribute to overall body weight. Older or traditional "vintage" models are usually made of maple or ash, which are heftier than other woods (bubinga, walnut or the cheaper basswood).
Strings
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Basses come with four, five, six or even seven strings. More strings doesn't equal a better player. Choose which feels more comfortable to your hands.
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