Best Bass Guitars for Every Musical Situation: A Complete Guide.
The bass guitar is an integral part of any modern musical arrangement. Sure, you might be rockin’ a full-fledged electric guitar, but without the low-end rumble of a bass guitar, it just won’t sound the same. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of bass guitar models to choose from, with a wide array of specs, sounds, and shapes to fit your individual playing style and any musical situation you might find yourself in.
To help you choose the best bass guitar for your needs, we’ve put together this guide of the top bass guitar models, along with some advice on what to look for when buying a bass guitar. Whether you’re just getting started with your musical journey or you’re an experienced professional, there’s something here for everyone.
First, a few terms you should know when shopping for a bass guitar. A four-string (standard) bass typically features a neck (or fretboard) between 34–36 inches long and has a scale length of 34 inches, meaning that each note is spaced out in a 34-inch pattern from the nut to the bridge. The strings of a bass guitar are generally heavier than those on an electric guitar, due to the lower notes they are intended to produce.
Because of its size and weight, the most popular bass guitar design has traditionally been the Fender Precision Bass. The P-Bass is a classic design, with a solid-body, two humbucking pickups, and a 34-inch scale length. It’s a great choice for rock and funk, but it can be limited in range in comparison to other models on the market.
A five-string (extended-range) bass adds an extra low-B string to the guitar’s standard four-string lineup. This expanded range gives you access to notes that aren’t available with a 4-string bass and allows for more creative use of the instrument. And, of course, if you’re feelin’ really adventurous, there are a handful of 6 and 7-string basses on the market, with some models even featuring up to 8 strings!
There’s also the Fender Jazz Bass, which has a shorter neck (30-inches) than the P-Bass, two single-coil pickups, and a wider range of tones. This model is popular among jazz and blues players, as well as those who want a more defined, sharper sound out of their instrument.
If you’re looking for something more versatile, a hybrid 5-string bass might be right for you. Hybrid basses tend to feature a longer (34-inch) scale length combined with active electronics and are great for players who want a guitar that can cover a wide range of genres while still retaining a distinct character.
Finally, there’s the acoustic bass guitar. Surprisingly, there isn’t much difference between an acoustic and electric bass in terms of sound and construction, aside from the obvious difference in amplification. Acoustic basses are a great choice for those who want to be able to play without having to plug in and generate noise in the middle of a performance.
No matter what style of music you play or what sound you’re going for, there’s a bass guitar out there that’s perfect for you. Now that you know the basics of what to look for in a bass guitar, you’re ready to find the best option for your individual sound.