10 Best Bass Guitars For Beginners (Updated 2024) | Guitar Based

An electric bass guitar is essential for almost any kind of music, even though people will still debate this somehow!

Whether you want to lay down groovy rhythms with the body-shaking boom of the low strings or chase after your favorite songs with wickedly fast licks.

There’s nothing quite like hearing a bass reverberate through a sound system and shake any room, no matter its size.

So, look no further if you’re starting your journey as a musician and looking for that perfect package that delivers both style and substance.

I’ve rounded up some of the best bass guitars for beginners that, throughout the years, I’ve seen demonstrate significant-good quality.

In this post, I’ll cover everything from basic features and electronic packages to sound quality and playability.

I’ll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions you might have while buying a new instrument.

Top 10 Best Bass Guitars For Beginners

Boasting an eye-catching new offset body design and a plethora of modern features, the Jackson Guitars Spectra Series JS2 bass is an excellent choice for entry-level players seeking performance on a budget.

Its lightweight materials make it a great value but don’t let that fool you – this four-string also packs plenty of punch in its tone.

In addition, the P/J pickup configuration allows guitarists to enjoy the versatility they’re used to while adventuring into new sonic territories thanks to a dedicated bass boost control.

Finally, the stylish finish will ensure this instrument stands out in the studio or onstage.

This impressive offering from the prolific manufacturer is certainly one to watch and may indicate even more exciting developments from Jackson in the future.

• Pros:
  • Lightweight materials.
  • P/J pickup configuration.
  • Stylish finish.

• Cons:
  • No cons.

My final verdict is that the Jackson Guitars Spectra Series JS2 bass is an excellent choice for entry-level players seeking quality performance and a great value.

Its lightweight materials, P/J pickup configuration, dedicated bass boost control, and stylish finish make it a top contender for those looking for a reliable and enjoyable bass guitar.

Few bass guitars can offer the same level of performance or versatility as the Schecter Omen 4.

This affordable model is renowned for its ability to accommodate a wide range of genres and styles, making it an excellent choice for metal fans and players who prefer a more neutral sound.

The Omen 4 provides plenty of bang for your buck with its active set of pickups, complete two-band EQ section, and sleek design that sets it apart from other models in its segment.

In addition, its dual humbucker configuration ensures a crisp sound perfect for precision work and a thick tone ideal for muddier tones.

Ultimately, this is an excellent starting point for any serious player.

• Pros:
  • Wide genre range.
  • Active pickups.
  • Dual humbucker.

• Cons:
  • No cons.

My final verdict is that the Schecter Omen 4 is an excellent choice for a bass guitar.

It offers plenty of features and performance for its price, and its versatile sound can accommodate a wide variety of genres and styles.

Its active pickups, two-band EQ section, and dual humbucker configuration provide a crisp sound and thick tone that make it an ideal starting point for serious players.

Music Man bass guitars have gained notoriety in the upper echelons of the guitar world due to their high performance and superior quality.

However, because Music Man instruments tend to come with a relatively exclusive price tag,

Sterling, as a company with a similar connection to Music Man as Squier has with Fender, offers an affordable alternative in the form of their S.U.B. Series Ray4 model.

This beginner’s bass guitar is perfect for novice players looking to hone their skills – it offers a hard-hitting, powerful tone thanks to its versatile active humbucker and two-band E.Q. that provide an expansive variety of sound styles.

Moreover, this instrument will never limit your progress even if you become an experienced guitarist, so while it may be slightly costlier than other models on the market, choosing this particular one is sure to pay off in the long run!

• Pros:
  • Powerful tone.
  • Varied sound styles.
  • No limit to progress.

• Cons:
  • Pricey for beginners.

My final verdict is that the Sterling S.U.B. Series Ray4 bass guitar is an excellent choice for novice players looking to hone their skills.

Its powerful tone, versatile active humbucker, and two-band E.Q. provide an expansive variety of sound styles.

Moreover, even experienced players won’t be limited by this instrument, making it a sound investment for the long term.

With its comfortable scale length and high-quality construction, the Ibanez GSR200M is an exceptional choice for bassists of all levels.

Its diminutive size is the ideal solution for entry-level players or those with smaller hands – a few inches off the scale length doesn’t make any difference to playability but can make all the difference in terms of comfort.

Being shorter also does not mean it compromises on sound quality either. The combination of an Agathis body and maple neck provide plenty of resonance, while the pickups offer impressive tonal range and flexibility.

All this makes it an instrument that gives plenty of bang for your buck – a true testament to why Ibanez has dominated the market share in recent times.

• Pros:
  • Comfortable scale length.
  • High-quality construction.
  • Great sound quality.

• Cons:
  • None.

My final verdict is that the Ibanez GSR200M is an outstanding choice for bassists of any level, offering great playability, comfort, sound quality, tonal range, and flexibility at an incredibly reasonable price.

Offering an unbeatable combination of affordability, comfort, and versatility, the Yamaha TRBX174EW is an ideal option for bassists at the start of their musical journey.

Its contemporary design is undoubtedly one of its greatest assets – from the exotic mango top to the mahogany body and easy-playing bolt-on maple neck.

In addition, some extreme attention has gone into crafting a great-looking instrument.

And it doesn’t stop there – performance-wise, the 24 frets provide plenty of range while a split Precision single-coil and Jazz single-coil, with tone and volume controls, ensure superior versatility.

Taking all these features into account, it’s clear that this entry-level bass packs quite a punch when it comes to craftsmanship and quality.

• Pros:
  • Affordable price.
  • Comfortable design.
  • Versatile sound.

• Cons:
  • None.

My final verdict is that the Yamaha TRBX174EW is an excellent option for beginning bassists, offering an unbeatable combination of affordability, comfort, and versatility.

Its contemporary design, 24 frets, split Precision single-coil and Jazz single-coil, and tone and volume controls make it a great-looking, high-performing instrument.

Offering unbeatable value for money, this starter pack from Davison is the ideal solution for bassists on a budget.

Featuring an affordable bass with a split-coil pickup and set of basic controls, as well as a small amplifier, a strap, a lead, and a soft gig bag, it’s everything you need to get started – all at the price of one!

The bass is excellent for beginners who are just beginning: though it might be simple in its design, it’s still capable.

Moreover, it performs well enough to learn how to play without sacrificing tone or quality.

The included amp is equally useable and user-friendly – perfect for those who want an all-in-one package to get them going.

• Pros:
  • Affordable package.
  • Split-coil pickup.
  • Good for beginners.

• Cons:
  • Basic controls.

My final verdict is that the Davison starter pack is an excellent value for money, providing all the necessary essentials for beginner bassists.

The bass is simple and easy to use, but still offers good quality and tone, while the included amp is also user-friendly and reliable.

The Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar Special SS is the perfect choice for small-handed beginners looking to learn the basics of bass without breaking the bank.

Sporting a 30″ scale length, this incredibly affordable electric bass is made with a classic Jaguar-style body crafted from Agathis and features a bolt-on maple neck and rosewood fretboard.

Though its pickups aren’t the most powerful, they still do exactly what you need them to at this price point – offering up a split single-coil Precision Bass pickup at the middle position and a single-coil Jazz Bass pickup at the bridge.

That’s controlled by two volume knobs and a master tone control, so you can tweak your sound until it’s just right.

• Pros:
  • Small-handed friendly.
  • Affordable price.
  • Split P/J pickups.

• Cons:
  • Low-powered pickups.
  • No active electronics.

My final verdict is that the Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar Special SS is an excellent choice for beginners looking for an affordable, quality electric bass with a classic Jaguar-style body and all the basic features needed to learn the basics.

The Ibanez GSR200 may come with an affordable price tag, but its robust construction and impressive features are worth more.

It is made from Agathis, a tonewood known for producing warm solid tones with plenty of sustain.

The neck is crafted from maple, strengthening durability and stability over time.

On the fretboard lies rosewood, one of the most used materials on higher-end instruments, due to its cost efficiency and quality. It also contains 22 medium frets for ease of use.

For hardware, it includes a dependable B10 bridge along with a synthetic nut that can withstand higher tensions from thicker strings when playing.

Die-cast tuners ensure they can keep the guitar in tune despite intensive playing sessions.

Players will also benefit from the active pickups installed in the guitar—a Dynamic P split coil precision model at the neck and a single-coil Jazz Bass pickup on the bridge.

Volume knobs are included for each pickup, plus there is a tone knob as well that provides extra sound options beyond what players usually get with passive pickups found on other instruments.

Overall, it’s clear that Ibanez has put their thought into making this reasonably priced bass look and sound like something much more expensive than it is!

• Pros:
  • Robust construction.
  • Impressive features.
  • Warm solid tones.

• Cons:
  • None.

My final verdict is that the Ibanez GSR200 is an excellent choice for bass players who are looking for a high-quality instrument at an affordable price.

Its combination of robust construction, impressive features, and active pickups make it a great value for the money.

The ESP LTD B-205SM bass guitar is a fairly affordable, high-quality instrument with great looks and excellent sound, I would say.

Built from Swamp Ash body wood, said body features a sleek double-cutaway shape with a glossy finish, giving it a classic yet modern look that’s perfect for live performances.

The neck is constructed from maple/jatoba and topped with a comfortable rosewood fingerboard dressed in white position markers.

It offers a thin and fast profile, allowing musicians to play even complex riffs or solos easily.

Two passive ESP-designed SB-5 pickups handle the electronics on this bass.

With their combination of warmth and clarity, they can provide players with tones suitable for any musical style they want to explore.

Furthermore, a volume knob and tone knob allow players to tweak those tones to their precise liking.

As far as construction is concerned, it has a 34″ scale length and a secure 4-bolt neck attachment system that adds sustain and stability.

Its bridge also offers adjustments in intonation and action, making it very easy to customize according to player preferences.

Finally, its tuners are reliable and ensure that your strings stay ideally in tune even during intensive jamming sessions.

• Pros:
  • Great looks.
  • Excellent sound.
  • Thin profile.

• Cons:
  • None.

My final verdict is that the ESP LTD B-205SM bass guitar is an excellent, high-quality instrument with great features and sound quality.

It is a great choice for live performances, providing a classic yet modern look, comfortable neck, and versatile electronics.

Its construction is solid, with a secure neck attachment, adjustable bridge, and reliable tuners, making it very easy to customize.

Overall, it is an excellent bass guitar for any musical style.

For more than 50 years, the Yamaha BB Series of bass guitars has been revered globally as one of the best instruments in its class.

With 2017 came a revitalization of this classic range, with models spanning from entry-level to premium. Today, we look at the lower end of this range and explore the BB234, a quality instrument that comes in under $300.

The BB234 is smaller than its predecessors and sports an attractive curvaceous double-cutaway shape, coupled with an alder body that is finished off with either a glossy urethane coating or a natural satin finish.

Players can choose between several colors black, white, and red – or go for an all-out classic style with the satin option.

To ensure outstanding balance despite its reduced size, the BB234 is equipped with lightweight open-gear chrome tuners on its headstock – a modern addition to this vintage design.

But it does not just look that makes this bass so desirable – it sounds great too!

The duo of Custom V3 Pickups offers up a solid low end while also providing plenty of clarity across all frequencies, perfect for everything from heavy rock to blues and jazz.

• Pros:
  • Attractive design.
  • Lightweight tuners.
  • Good sound clarity.

• Cons:
  • Smaller size.
  • Limited colors.

My final verdict is that the Yamaha BB234 bass guitar is an excellent option for anyone in the market for a quality instrument at an affordable price.

It has a classic, attractive design, lightweight open-gear chrome tuners, and a pair of Custom V3 Pickups that offer up a solid low end with plenty of clarity across all frequencies.

In addition to reading this post, we suggest you watch this video:

How to Choose Your First Bass | #MyFirstInstrument | Thomann

Here you will learn everything you need to buy the bass you need.

What to look for when buying a bass guitar for a beginner?

Finding the right bass guitar for your musical needs is often a straightforward process, but sometimes there are numerous variables to consider.

So before you make a hasty decision that could leave you with a bass that isn’t suited to your requirements, there are a few things to consider:

Comfort while playing

When learning to play bass guitar, expect to feel some uncomfortable growing pains when starting out.

This is especially true because the scale length of a bass is much longer than that of an electric guitar, forcing you to have to stretch and spread your fingers further.

While everyone must adapt to this over time, for those who find it too difficult, there is always the option of buying a short-scale model.

Additionally, pay attention to not just the body’s size but also the instrument’s balance when selecting an appropriate model; cheaper models may be prone to imbalance issues, making them difficult or even painful to play.

Finding a bass that fits comfortably in your hands should be a priority.

If you’re smaller in stature or shopping for a teenager, then opting for a shorter scale could be beneficial, so keep this in mind when making your purchase.

Budget / How much do you want to spend?

When it comes to the budget for a bass guitar, there is no limit.

If you want a rare vintage Rickenbacker model from 1967, then be prepared to pay $23,000, but I mean, that isn’t necessary!

For most people starting their musical journey, a bass guitar can be acquired between the $150-$400 range and will provide great features and excellent quality.

The benefit of learning on an instrument of higher quality is that it will usually be more comfortable to play and give access to more tonal and power options as you develop your skills.

Any amount beyond $500 may not be feasible at first, but if your funds are abundant and you’d like to purchase a starter bass worth up to $2,000 – feel free! Ultimately, spend only as much as you can afford for your first bass.

Number of strings

Bass guitars are traditionally made with four strings, although more advanced models with five and six strings have become increasingly popular.

For those just starting on bass, a four-string model should be sufficient for mastering the basics, allowing you to acclimate to the instrument at your own pace before expanding.

However, it’s worth noting that as your skillset grows and you explore new styles, a 5-string or 6-string bass may offer greater possibilities – but wait to jump into something like this!

Even renowned musicians such as Flea have proven that a basic 4-string bass can provide all the range necessary to express yourself creatively without compromise.

Electronics

There are two main types of pickups for bass guitars:

• Passive
• Active.

Passive pickups are standard on beginner models, as they are generally cheaper to manufacture and do not require a battery power source.

This pickup type provides more expressive tones with less added coloration from the electronics.

On the other hand, active pickups boast powerful and articulate output but require an external battery to work and tend to be pricier than their passive counterparts.

A beginner should be fine with the nuances of different electronics at first, as passive pickups will be fine until you develop a more sophisticated taste for tone.

Then, you can assess whether a passive or active setup works best for your individual needs.

At first, I wouldn’t bother too much about this, but I think it’s still good to know when you’re starting out.

Pickup layout

When navigating the different models of bass guitars, familiarizing yourself with the standard pickup layouts is essential.

Perhaps most recognizable is the Precision layout, which consists of one split-coil pickup at the neck position, providing a fatter tone and excellent reliability, often at a lower cost.

On the other hand, the Jazz layout is another popular choice, made up of two single-coil pickups.

Which are one at the bridge and one at the neck.

This offers more versatility and clarity than the Precision but lacks some growl, in my opinion.

Next is the P/J configuration – probably the most common among beginner bassists – which mixes both Precision and Jazz pickups: a split-coil pickup at either side gives you a balanced ‘best of both worlds’ sound.

There are also double pickup options that can be two single coils or two humbuckers, depending on your model; this pairs great clarity with a robust sound that a lot of people seem to like somehow.

Choosing between these four will come down to personal preference – as someone just starting on their journey with bass guitars, don’t be afraid to experiment at first.

What do you need to play bass guitar?

You’ve made a wise investment in purchasing a bass – great work, but what do you do now?

Well, now it’s time to consider all the other items you’ll need to get up and run.

First is an amplifier – pick up one simultaneously as you buy your bass to practice with feedback and gain familiarity with good playing habits.

The amp’s wattage will depend on where and why you perform, but a 10-40 watt practice amp should be more than enough for most people.

You’ll also need an instrument cable, which works for both guitar and bass, which costs between $10-$20 for quality, and some plectrums or picks if desired (metal, punk, or rock music may benefit from more defined sound).

For some people, what’s missing is purchasing a guitar tuner (to help tune up) and finding a suitable case/gig bag to store and transport your instrument; we have several guides covering such items.

I would say that nowadays, you can opt not to buy the tuner at all and use a guitar tuner app, but if you’re looking for accuracy, then having it is a must.

In this video, you will learn everything related to this topic. Do not miss it:

The Top 10 Bass Gadgets for EVERY Bassist (NOT gimmicks)

What is the easiest type of bass guitar to play?

4-string basses are the best instruments to learn, but even though 5-string and 6-string models have grown in popularity, they add an unnecessary layer of complexity that can be difficult for a beginner to comprehend.

Four-string basses offer a narrower neck, making them easier to handle

Additionally, many songs won’t require those extra strings, so having them becomes a bit pointless for the big majority of us.

For those with a specific genre in mind that uses the additional strings, like maybe modern metal or heavy metal, we’d recommend learning on a 4-string before jumping up – it’s always important to find your footing first.

No matter which instrument you choose, it is vital to set up correctly and appropriately to keep string action nice and low – this will allow the bass to be played more easily.

You can follow how-to videos or visit a local professional if you need more clarification on any of this.

Should you buy a used bass instead?

If you’re looking for an affordable option and considering something from the used market, one thing to act cautiously on is damaged or faulty electrics.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to recognize signs of such issues (especially if you don’t have a very experienced player helping you out), so it’s essential to take any potentially used instrument out for a test run through an amplifier before partaking in the purchase.

On the other hand, going for a brand-new bass guitar from a trusted marketplace will eliminate any concerns about condition, especially when you have a warranty and returns policy that gives you peace of mind.

It’s worth noting, however, that while it may result in a good deal – there are commonly more duds than real bargains in this area!

And I’m saying that from real personal experience! 🙂

How much should you pay for a beginner bass guitar?

Knowing which bass to buy can be tricky, especially for beginners who might need to learn the details of what’s available in the market.

While it is undoubtedly true that investing in a very high-end instrument with a good sonic appeal will likely encourage you to practice more, it is by no means necessary (or even standard) for beginners to splurge on an expensive model.

Depending on your budget, you can easily find a bass that plugs into an amp, has decent tonal qualities and plays relatively well without breaking the bank.

I would say this will typically be somewhere within the “$100-$300” range.

This provides the perfect starting point and is an excellent option if you are still trying to figure out whether this is the right instrument.

On the other hand, if you have grand plans of landing on stage one day, then getting something slightly higher end may well be worthwhile.

However, even then, it’s essential not to break your budget too much as instruments constantly evolve and new models always come out.