What to Look for When Buying Your First Electric Bass Guitar

So you've decided to take up the bass guitar-or your kid has decided to play bass in the school band class-but you don't really have any idea what to look for when going in search of one to purchase. What should you do? What should you do? Is it better to buy a high quality used bass guitar or a lower quality one for a better price? Did you make this decision based on what a particular rock star plays? Do you go for the regular four-string bass or the six string? What about one of those freaky twelve string basses? All good questions and I really wish I could help but, but I can't.

Just kidding, of course. First things first. How much are you willing to spend? The price range for a bass guitar is majestic; anything from a dollar plus shipping on eBay to several thousand dollars. Since you're just starting out, you can probably go ahead and forget the four-figure bass guitars, even if it is autographed. Once you've figured out how much you are willing to spend, it's time to consider what you want. You can probably find a good deal on eBay for either a new or used guitar, but you won't know what you're really getting until the mailman arrives. Or, you can walk into a music store and not only actually see what you might want to buy, but even play it to make sure it's good the sound you want. Another thing to consider when going to the music store is that you may be able to get a better guitar by paying in installments. And, if this bass guitar is going to your kid for band at school, most music stores offer a return or replacement policy upgrade. True, there will be interest to think about and that can double the price over the long term, but most will allow you to pay off the principal in full any time.

After considering price and the method of purchase, it's time to think about style and brands. Bass guitars come in a vast variety of sizes and shapes and you want to make sure you get one that is comfortable rather than merely cool. Therefore, it's best to actually shop around and try out different styles, as well as different brands. Some will be heavier than others, and there may also be a significant difference in the balance when you hold it. If you are going to be standing up when you play it, try it out standing up. If the bass guitar will be spend mainly in the lap of a kid in a band course at school, make sure if feels comfortable in that position.

The main thing to remember when buying your first bass guitar is that it is an introductory. You may be tempted to buy the more expensive Yamaha because that's what your favorite bassist plays, but it's not going to sound the same in your inexperienced hands. If price is the primary consideration, you can't go wrong with some of the amazing eBay deals. If the sound and the comfort factor is the ultimate arbiter of your decision, you'll want to buy a bass guitar you've actually played.