i need a cheap bass for recording!

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Bobcat102122

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I'm working on my first album, and I need to find a CHEAP (like pref. around a hundred bucks) to record direct. I'm a guitarist so I know how to play, and what sounds good, but I've never spent any time in the bass market. Any idea where I could score something cheap that wont sound like trash? and are there any specific instruments or brands to look for? I play sort of john mayer-ish acoustic/ light electric rock. thanks!

Bob
 
You really are looking for a cheap bass....

For $100 bucks you'll probably have to look for something used, otherwise about $179 might be the bottom line for anything playable or that sounds any good....
 
I would recommend a cheap Fender P-Bass. Mine has held up for over two years. Put some Ernie Ball Super Slinkies on it and you're set.
 
I am a guitar player, but got a Japanese G&L for recording. It is almost as good as an American Fender to play and soundwise perhaps even better (great punch, both P- and J-bass sound), but half price. Be careful about cheap basses, I started with a $300 one, but it lacked punch. In that case midi bass may be just as good, if you have a program to create it. Particularly, if like me, you are not a bass player.
 
At $100 you have few options and no decent options at all - unless you get lucky in the used market.

I haven't priced in several months - but when I was looking for a "cheap" bass for laying tracks (I'm a drummer with some guitar/bass chops) I priced Fender Jazz & P-Bass (Mexican), some low cost Yamaha's (all around $200).

I thought the Yamaha's played and sounded better (more punch, better attack) - but I ended up better a Jazz bass (I though the trade value would be better). Candidly, I wish I would have gotten the Yamaha.

If I was you (and I ain't) I would try to commit about $300 to get something that I actually didn't mind having in my hands.
 
I found my bass in the garbage next store. The neck was borken so my friend just gave me a not borken one and there you go! It might not be amazing but i just really fool around with it.

My suggestion to you:
check the garbage... maybe even garage sales.
 
I bought a used (they don't make them anymore...) Peavey T-40 on eBay for $200 including hardshell case. I've seen them as low as $150 - $175.

It's built like a tank in the USA. It has great tonal flexibility and it's excellent for recording, although probably too heavy on the shoulder for live gigs. Check out the reviews at http://www.harmony-central.com/Bass/Data4/Peavey/T-40-01.html

Without menaing to sound condescending, I doubt you'll find a descent instrument for $100 (new or used).
 
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