Understanding the Best Cheap Bass Guitar

In the world of bass guitars, there is a clear understanding that the cost of the equipment can significantly influence its quality and playability. However, finding a good, affordable bass guitar doesn't mean skipping all necessary features and quality. This article explores what makes a good cheap first bass guitar and provides recommendations tailored to beginners and budget-conscious players.

Current Market and Recommendations

Currently, the market is redefining what a good, affordable bass guitar looks like. New brands and vintage reissues are providing options that cater to various budget ranges and specific needs. Here are some of the best recommendations:

My Current Top Recommendations

Squier 40th-Anniversary Vintage Precision or Jazz: Recently on sale for $389.99, this is a top pick for beginners. I've been using the Jazz for four months, and despite the other basses in my collection gathering dust, I find it highly useful. It offers a great blend of quality and affordability. Used Music Man Stingray Sub4: For those looking for a slightly more advanced sound, a used Music Man Stingray Sub4 is a stellar choice. They come in around $350 for a new one, and second-hand, they can be found for as low as $230. This bass offers a humbucking pickup, larger frets, and an active EQ, making it versatile and modern sounding.

Vintage Finds and DIY Solutions

Some of the best budget bass guitars can be found through vintage or used stores. eBay, charity shops, and pawn shops are excellent sources for deals. Personally, I've been fortunate enough to find some fantastic deals:

A 1977 Antoria Jazz bass, which is a factory rebadged Ibanez, for only ￡50. A Vox Pathfinder 10 bass for ￡10, still in production at 10 times the price. Both are excellent finds, especially considering their original retail prices.

Bundles for Savings

Certain bundles can significantly save you money without compromising quality. Squier bundles or Ibanez Harley Benton are great options. They offer a complete setup at a lower cost, eliminating the need to buy individual components. This approach is especially attractive if you aren't familiar with bass guitars.

Why 100 Dollars May Not Be Enough

It is important to note that a bass guitar under $100 often comes with significant drawbacks. Such instruments frequently have noticeable flaws that make them unsuitable for everyday use. Here are some common issues:

Fret Sprout: Over time, frets can wear down, causing sharp edges that may hurt your fingers. This can be fixed but at a cost that often exceeds the value of the guitar. Neck Pocket Gap: With affordable solid-body electrics, you are likely to encounter a bolt-on neck, which can lead to shifting and tuning issues. While a shim can fix this, the cost of the shim may exceed the initial cost of the guitar. Other Quality Control Flaws: Cheaply machined parts like saddle bridges and string trees can be sharp and cause issues. These defects can be addressed, but the cost to fix them might exceed what you paid for the guitar.

Unless you are meticulously skilled in fixing these issues, spending less than $100 will inevitably result in a low-quality instrument. Jumping to the $300 range, you will see a significant improvement in playability and sound quality.

Conclusion

The quest for a good, cheap bass guitar is a journey that requires careful consideration of your needs and budget. While it is important to save money, it is crucial not to compromise on quality. By understanding the limitations and benefits of both end ranges of the price spectrum, you can make a more informed decision. Whether you opt for a bundle, a vintage find, or a specific model like the Squier or Music Man, ensure that the guitar you choose aligns with your playing style and expectations.