12 Best Beginner Bass Guitars

To start playing bass guitar, you must purchase a beginner bass guitar to get started. The best beginner bass guitars can provide a solid foundation to learn and improve your skills. You can easily understand the basics and progress to more advanced techniques with a suitable beginner bass guitar.

Finding the best beginner bass guitars can be a challenging task due to the numerous options available in the market. Factors such as the brand, price, sound quality, and materials used can all play a significant role in determining the right beginner bass guitar for you. Additionally, it can be difficult to distinguish between the different features and technical specifications, especially if you are a novice player.

Fortunately, we have reviewed many beginner bass guitars, so we can help you select the one that best suits your needs. Our experts have carefully assessed various beginner bass guitars’ quality, playability, and value to provide a comprehensive guide. With our recommendations, you can confidently choose a high-quality beginner bass guitar to help you achieve your musical goals.

Top 12 Best Bass Guitars For Beginners

Yamaha TRBX174 DBM Agathis Electric Bass Guitar

What else can we say about Yamaha? It’s trendy in the guitar world, especially in the Bass Guitar. This particular TRBX174 comes in 19 different colors. They have basic features, but they have two or more structural changes.

The Timbers of this guitar are made of Mahogany. As you know, this is the case with Mahogany, which everyone in the music industry loves.

It produces the warmest sound of all timbres. The low register here is part of the bass resonance. You will also get a beautiful effect on your work. About the fingerboard for the guitar, it’s made of Rosewood. There are about 24 medium-sized cases, so you have better control over the pitch.

Using a guitar, this 4-string Electric Bass Guitar will have a single-coil pickup configuration and a 4-saddle retro-style bridge. This guitar has two ceramic pickups, one for the neck and one for the bridge—the two work together to produce better sound and volume from the guitar.

Pros:

• It’s very comfortable to hold.
• With precision Jazz pickup arrangement.
• Brand reputation.
• Good Electronics.
• A Sturdy Bridge contains the strings in place.
• Low Price.
• A good choice for beginners to intermediate level.

Cons:

You need to set the action because some are a little high.

At the advanced level, this is not a good choice.

Yamaha BB735A BB-Series 5-String Bass Guitar

Yamaha Corporation’s other. So, who can deny the richness and satisfaction of Yamaha guitars? This piece comes in 10 different colors, but black looks spectacular. This will increase the tenor of the guitar and make the body more robust than you expect.

The wood acts as a bridge between the neck and the body to better transmit vibrations and thus produce better sound. Then came the neck, which in turn was made of two types of wood: Maple and Mahogany.

A connector on the neck is much thinner than a conventional knob. You can guess why. If not, you can better transmit the vibration to the strings, strengthening the guitar.

Now, let’s talk about the hardware. Here, you will find a convertible bridge and a piano pillow. The strings are specially angled to 45 degrees from the bridge, rather than placed vertically, to avoid stress and tension on the lines. It also has a very lightweight tuner and an active guitar circuit.

A battery LED on the back will warn you when the power gets too low so you don’t stop singing halfway across the stage. Last but not least, it’s a long guitar with a length of 34 inches (863.6 mm).

Pros:

• Improved neck for beginners and advanced players.
• Innovative design and styling.
• Lightweight tuner.
• Satin finish.
• Excellent playback ability.
• Clear Voice.
• Professional and solid construction.

Cons:

• Some people prefer a wide neck.

Fender Vintera 50s Precision Bass

The Fender bass has been around for years and is still a classic. Guitars come in two different colors. The body of the guitar is solid wood. Use nitrocellulose paint to Polish or Polish the guitar. This is a better word to attract you to a smooth appearance.

Its fingerboard is not the usual Rosewood. It’s made from maple trees. There are 20 outstanding notes on the Board for beginners to play. The mosaics here are black dots, not the regular white dots we’ve seen. The neck of the guitar is also made of Maple.

With the C shape, you can play for hours without getting tired. The length of the guitar is longer. It is about 34 inches in length.

Regarding hardware, it is a classic-style bridge with 4 Saddles. The hardware is made of chrome. We also have a single-coil pickup for the guitar. They provide knobs and an open gear tuner for better volume and control over everything.

The most spectacular part of the hardware may be the smallest, but it is the most dramatic. Its gold-like finish gives it a retro feel and accentuates the guitar’s overall appearance.

Pros:

• Classic Bayse.
• It looks spectacular.
• First-rate playback.
• The Truss bar adjustment on the body of the harp.
• Excellent construction and tone.

Cons:

• The neck is too wide for some clients.

Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass

The Squier Affinity Precision is a top choice for beginners due to its excellent blend of affordability and quality. It offers a genuine Precision Bass experience and a legendary design. It provides an ideal entry point for aspiring bassists looking for a reliable and cost-effective instrument.

Classic Precision Bass Sound: The Affinity Precision delivers the iconic, deep, and punchy tone synonymous with Precision Bass guitars. This timeless sound is perfect for various musical styles and offers versatility for beginners.

Comfortable Playability: With a comfortable C-shaped neck profile and a well-balanced body, this bass ensures easy play. Beginners can quickly adapt to the instrument, making the learning process smoother.

Affordable Quality: Squier is known for producing budget-friendly yet high-quality instruments. This bass guitar combines affordability with a solid build, making it an excellent investment for beginners.

The Squier Affinity Precision is ideal for anyone new to bass playing or on a budget. It’s highly recommended for those seeking an authentic bass experience without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• Classic Precision Bass sound
• Comfortable playability
• Affordable quality
• Versatile for different musical styles
• Well-balanced and easy to handle

Cons:

• Limited tonal variety
• Basic features compared to more advanced models

Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4 Bass Guitar

The Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray4 is an exceptional choice for beginners due to its heritage and quality. It’s inspired by the iconic Music Man StingRay, providing an authentic playing experience at an affordable price.

StingRay Sound: This bass guitar emulates the signature StingRay sound, known for its bright and punchy tones. Beginners will appreciate the broad tonal palette, making it suitable for various musical genres. Product Website

Comfortable Neck: The Ray4 features a slender neck profile, ensuring comfortable playability for extended practice sessions. It’s an excellent choice for those new to bass playing.

Affordable Craftsmanship: Sterling by Music Man maintains high craftsmanship standards while keeping the price accessible. This bass offers a blend of quality and affordability.

The Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray4 is recommended for beginners who want a bass guitar that echoes the legacy of the StingRay, known for its superb sound. It’s an excellent choice for a versatile and cost-effective instrument.

Pros:

• Authentic StingRay sound
• Comfortable neck for beginners
• Quality craftsmanship
• Versatile tonal options
• Affordably priced

Cons:

• Limited finish options
• Heavier compared to some other beginner basses

Squier Bullet Bronco Bass

The Squier Bronco Bass is among the best beginner guitars for its simplicity and affordability. Designed with beginners in mind, it offers a comfortable and straightforward entry into the world of bass playing.

Compact Design: The Bronco Bass features a short-scale design, making it easy to handle for beginners and those with smaller hands. This design enhances playability, reducing finger strain during practice.

Single-Pickup Simplicity: It’s equipped with a single pickup, ensuring straightforward sound control for newcomers. This simplicity allows beginners to focus on mastering the basics without overwhelming settings.

Affordability: As a budget-friendly option, the Bronco Bass doesn’t sacrifice quality. It provides a solid foundation for beginners without a hefty price tag, making it an attractive choice for new bassists. Product Website

The Squier Bronco Bass is a perfect choice for young learners, beginners, or those with smaller hands. It’s recommended for those seeking a user-friendly and budget-conscious bass guitar to kick-start their musical journey.

Pros:

• Short-scale design for easy playability
• Simple single-pickup configuration
• Budget-friendly
• Ideal for young or beginner players
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons:

• Limited tonal variety
• It may not suit advanced players

Yamaha TRBX174 BL 4 String Bass Guitar

The Yamaha TRBX174 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its balanced features and reliable performance. It offers a versatile and affordable instrument for newcomers to explore their musical potential.

Versatile Pickup Configuration: The TRBX174 features a P/J pickup configuration, combining the precision of a split-coil pickup and the punch of a jazz-style pickup. This versatility allows beginners to experiment with various tones and playing styles.

Solid Build: Yamaha is renowned for quality craftsmanship, and the TRBX174 is no exception. It offers a durable and comfortable instrument that can withstand the rigors of practice and performance.

Affordable Quality: Despite its quality build and versatile features, the TRBX174 remains budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those just starting their bass-playing journey. Product Website

The Yamaha TRBX174 is recommended for beginners looking for a well-rounded bass guitar with a broad tonal range. It’s ideal for those who want to explore different playing styles and genres without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• Versatile P/J pickup configuration
• Quality craftsmanship
• Affordable price
• Suitable for various playing styles
• Comfortable and durable

Cons:

• Heavier compared to some beginner basses
• Gig bag not included

Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass

The Squier Affinity Jazz Bass is among the best beginner bass guitars due to its affordability and classic jazz bass sound. It’s a fantastic entry point for beginners who appreciate the iconic tones of jazz bass guitars.

Classic Jazz Bass Sound: The Affinity Jazz Bass delivers the legendary, smooth, warm tones associated with jazz basses. This versatile sound is perfect for various musical genres and allows beginners to explore their style.

Comfortable Playability: With a comfortable C-shaped neck and a well-balanced body, this bass ensures easy play. Beginners can quickly adapt to the instrument, making the learning process smoother.

Budget-Friendly: Squier is known for producing budget-friendly yet high-quality instruments. The Affinity Jazz Bass combines affordability with a solid build, making it an excellent investment for beginners.

Who Should Use it and Is it Recommended: The Squier Affinity Jazz Bass is ideal for beginners seeking the classic jazz bass sound. It’s highly recommended for those who want to explore a wide range of musical genres and require a budget-friendly option.

Pros:

• Classic jazz bass sound
• Comfortable playability
• Affordable quality
• Versatile for different musical styles
• Well-balanced and easy to handle

Cons:

• Limited tonal variety
• Basic features compared to more advanced models

Ibanez SR Gio GSR200 Electric Bass Guitar

The Ibanez Gio GSR200 earns its place among the best beginner bass guitars for several reasons. It offers a well-balanced blend of affordability, quality, and versatile features that cater to novice bassists.

Active Phat II EQ: The GSR200 features an active Phat II EQ, enhancing the bass and treble frequencies. This feature allows beginners to shape their desired tones, from deep and booming to bright and punchy, offering versatility for different musical styles.

Slim Neck Profile: With a slim neck profile, this bass ensures comfortable playability for beginners. It’s well-suited for bass players with smaller hands, making the learning process more enjoyable.

Sturdy Build: Ibanez is known for its quality craftsmanship, and the GSR200 is no exception. Its solid construction ensures durability and reliability, essential for beginners who want an instrument that can withstand the learning curve.

The Ibanez Gio GSR200 is recommended for beginners looking for a budget-friendly bass guitar with versatile tone-shaping capabilities. It’s suitable for those who want to explore different playing styles and genres, making it a valuable choice for newcomers.

Pros:

• Active Phat II EQ for versatile tones
• Comfortable slim neck profile
• Affordable with good quality
• Ideal for different musical styles
• Durable and reliable

Cons:

• It may require adjustments for optimal setup
• Heavier than some other beginner basses

Epiphone EB3 Electric Bass Guitar Cherry

The Epiphone EB-3 is a top choice for beginners because it provides a smooth entry into the world of bass playing at an affordable price. It’s designed to help new bassists quickly build their skills and confidence.

Short-Scale Design: The EB-3 features a short-scale design, making it exceptionally easy for beginners to handle. This design ensures comfortable playability and minimizes finger strain, facilitating smooth and enjoyable practice.

Single Sidewinder Humbucker Pickup: Equipped with a single sidewinder humbucker pickup, this bass guitar offers simplicity and a distinctive, punchy sound. Beginners can easily dial in their desired tone without the complexity of multiple pickups.

Affordable Entry: Epiphone’s reputation for producing quality instruments at accessible prices makes the EB-0 ideal for new bassists who want a reliable and budget-conscious instrument to start their musical journey.

The Epiphone EB-3 is recommended for beginners, especially those with smaller hands or younger learners. It’s ideal for those seeking an uncomplicated and affordable bass guitar to begin their musical exploration.

Pros:

• Short-scale design for easy handling
• Distinctive single sidewinder humbucker pickup
• Affordable and accessible
• Comfortable playability
• Great for younger or smaller-handed players

Cons:

• Limited tonal options
• Basic features compared to more advanced models

Product Website

Jackson Concert JS3 Bass Guitar

The Jackson Concert JS3 is an exceptional choice for beginners due to its sleek design, comfortable playability, and budget-friendly pricing. It’s designed to provide a solid foundation for those starting their bass journey.

Attractive Design: The Concert JS3 features a visually appealing design with a poplar body and quilt maple top. This aesthetic appeal can inspire beginners to pick up the bass and start playing with enthusiasm.

Comfortable Playability: With a slim neck profile and a well-balanced body, this bass ensures comfortable playability. It’s an excellent choice for newcomers, allowing them to focus on honing their skills without discomfort.

Affordable Quality: Jackson offers quality craftsmanship at a budget-friendly price. The JS3 is a testament to this commitment, providing beginners with a reliable and cost-effective instrument to begin their musical journey.

The Jackson Concert JS3 is recommended for beginners who prioritize an attractive design, comfortable playability, and affordability. It’s suitable for those who want a reliable instrument to embark on their bass-playing adventure.

Pros:

• Visually appealing design
• Comfortable slim neck profile
• Affordable quality
• Ideal for beginners
• Attractive price point

Cons:

• Limited tonal variety
• Heavier compared to some other beginner basses

Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II Short-Scale 4-String Guitar

The Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II is an excellent choice for beginners due to its short-scale design and comfortable playability. It’s designed to make the learning process enjoyable and accessible.

Short-Scale Design: The G2220 features a short-scale design, making it perfect for beginners and those with smaller hands. This design ensures easy play, reduced finger strain, and a comfortable learning experience.

Sidewinder Humbucking Pickup: Equipped with a single sidewinder humbucking pickup, this bass offers a straightforward approach to tone. Beginners can quickly dial in their preferred sound without the complexity of multiple pickups, making it easy to start playing.

Affordable and Reliable: Gretsch provides a well-crafted, budget-friendly bass guitar for beginners. The G2220 ensures new bassists can access a quality instrument without a significant financial commitment.

The Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II is recommended for beginners, prioritizing a comfortable, short-scale design and straightforward tone control. It’s suitable for those seeking an accessible and reliable bass to begin their musical journey.

Pros:

• Easy-to-play short-scale Design
• Simple and punchy sidewinder humbucking pickup
• Affordable and reliable
• Comfortable for beginners
• Suitable for smaller hands

Cons:

• Limited tonal variety
• Basic features compared to higher-end models

Things Need to Know Before Buying the Best Beginners Bass Guitar

If you’re a bass guitar beginner, buy a sturdy, well-made Bayse to inspire you. Here are a few things to watch out for:

What’s its size?

The scale or string length will determine the bass guitar’s size. The bass has long and short scales; matching it to the size of Bayse’s hands is essential.

Is the guitar consistent?

Bass tuning problems are rare compared to guitars; larger strings are more stable. Even so, it’s a good idea to play for a while and check that your bass tuning is stable. Staying consistent will make learning more accessible and more fun.

How’s the guitar motion?

Movement refers to the height of the string relative to the neck fingerboard. High motion makes playing more challenging. If you move too low, the strings will hum unpleasantly. Usually, you want the action to be high enough to make the strings sound natural, and you can press the lines quickly.

Are the electronics in good condition?

Test the bass with an amplifier for electric bass, and the volume and tone controls can be adjusted for sound. Listen for any crackling, as this may indicate a malfunction in some electronic equipment or a loose internal connection.

Is it tasteful?

Check that the strings are level and that the notes above and below the neck of each line sound good. Uneven bars can cause wrong messages in different parts of the neck. Move Your Hand Up and down the neck; the strands should feel even and smooth.

What’s the neck width?

When you check the bass, check the neck width of the guitar. Some bass guitars have wider necks than others, and younger players can benefit from a narrower neck, slightly less challenging to handle.

How To Choose The Best Beginner Bass Guitars

When choosing a beginner bass guitar, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you’re getting the right instrument for your needs. In this article, we’ll cover the key points to consider when selecting the best beginner bass guitar.

1. Type of bass guitar

There are different types of bass guitars, such as electric bass, acoustic bass, and semi-acoustic bass. Each has its unique features and sound, so it’s essential to determine which type best suits your style of music.

2. Budget

Determining how much you will spend on a bass guitar is essential. Beginner bass guitars can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, so knowing your budget can help narrow your options.

3. Size and weight

The size and weight of a bass guitar can impact playability and comfort. Choosing a bass guitar that feels comfortable to play and won’t cause strain during extended playing sessions is essential.

4. Scale length

The scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge of the bass guitar. A longer scale length provides more tension and results in a brighter, punchier sound, while a shorter one offers a warmer tone.

5. Neck shape and width

The shape and width of the neck can affect how comfortable it is to play. Choosing a neck shape and width that feels comfortable in your hands and allows easy movement across the fretboard is essential.

6. Pickups

The type and quality of pickups can significantly impact the sound of a bass guitar. Single-coil pickups offer a bright and clear sound, while humbucker pickups provide a warmer, thicker tone.

7. Brand Reputation

The brand’s reputation can be a good indicator of the quality of the bass guitar. Choosing a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality instruments is essential.

8. Accessories

When purchasing a beginner bass guitar, it’s essential to consider accessories such as an amplifier, cables, and a case. Some beginner bass guitar packages may include these accessories, making them a more cost-effective option.

Choosing the best beginner bass guitar requires careful consideration of several factors: the bass guitar, budget, size and weight, scale length, neck shape and width, pickups, brand reputation, and accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner Bass Guitars

If you’re starting out playing bass guitar, you might have many questions about what instrument to get, how to care for it, and more. This article will address some of the most common questions about beginner bass guitars.

1. What is a beginner bass guitar?

A beginner bass guitar is an instrument that is designed for people who are just starting to learn how to play bass. These guitars are usually less expensive and more straightforward in design than advanced bass guitars, but they still provide a solid foundation for learning and practicing.

2. What should I look for in a beginner bass guitar?

When choosing a beginner bass guitar, it’s essential to consider factors like the quality of construction, the type of pickups and strings, and the overall sound and feel of the instrument. You’ll also want to think about factors like the size and weight of the guitar, as well as its aesthetic appeal.

3. Should I buy a four-string or five-string bass guitar?

A four-string bass guitar is the best choice for most beginner bass players. Five-string bass guitars can be more challenging and unnecessary for someone just starting. However, if you’re interested in playing certain styles of music that require a five-string bass, it may be worth considering.

4. What amplifier should I use with my beginner bass guitar?

When choosing an amplifier for your beginner bass guitar, it’s essential to choose one designed specifically for bass guitars. Look for an amplifier that is at least 30 watts and has a 10-inch speaker. You’ll also want to consider factors like the portability of the amplifier and any additional features it may have.

5. How often should I change the strings on my beginner bass guitar?

Changing the strings on your beginner bass guitar every three to six months is a good idea, depending on how frequently you play. This will help keep your instrument’s sound fresh and bright and prevent the strings from becoming too worn or dirty.

6. How do I care for my beginner bass guitar?

To care for your beginner bass guitar, keep it clean and dry and store it safely and securely when you’re not using it. It would be best to wipe down the strings after each use to prevent them from becoming corroded.

7. Can I use guitar strings on my bass guitar?

No, it would be best not to use guitar strings on your bass guitar. Bass strings are thicker and have a lower pitch than guitar strings, and using guitar strings on a bass guitar can cause damage to the instrument and will result in an inferior sound.

8. Do I need to take lessons to learn how to play the bass guitar?

While learning how to play the bass guitar independently is possible, taking lessons from a qualified teacher can be very helpful. A teacher can help you develop proper techniques, understand music theory, and provide feedback and guidance as you progress.

Choosing the right beginner bass guitar is essential for anyone who wants to start playing bass. By considering the factors we’ve discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and find an instrument that will be enjoyable to play and help you progress as a musician.