The saying, "Bass is the instrument you notice when it's not there," perfectly captures the importance of this instrument in music. While it might not always be the most prominent element in a song, bass guitars are like a glue holding the rhythm and melody together. If you already have a sense of rhythm and timing, the bass guitar could be the perfect instrument for you. The same thing goes if you're a seasoned musician looking to spice up their repertoire with a new addition. Either way, the bass offers an incredible way to let your musical creativity shine.
Finding the right bass guitar is a personal journey, and thankfully Australia offers a great selection to kickstart your musical journey or maybe spice up your repertoire. Once you've found the one that feels and sounds just right, you'll be ready to dive into the world of bass playing in no time. When shopping for bass guitars AU wide, here are some tips to help you find the perfect match.
Types of Bass Guitars
Just like most instruments, bass guitars come in several varieties, from electric to acoustic options. Each type has its own distinct features and is designed for a particular type of music.
The acoustic bass is very similar to a classic acoustic guitar. That’s because they both have a hollow body and a sound hole. However, in terms of sound, the acoustic bass produces a softer, mellow sound that is ideal for more laid-back genres where the base isn't a key element, such as folk and world music.
The electric bass guitar, on the other hand, produces a deep, rich, full-bodied tone that serves as the foundation of a song’s harmony and rhythm.
Number of Strings
The bass guitar usually has four strings tuned to E-A-D-G, which makes it easier for novices to learn than its more complicated six-string sibling, the guitar. However, some advanced players use basses with five or even six strings. This was started by virtuosos such as Anthony Jackson in the late 1970s. A five-string bass guitar usually has a low B string, while a six-string model adds a high C string.
Some musicians even use basses with seven or more strings. These instruments are called ERBs (extended range basses). However, regardless of how much sense such instruments may seem to some players, a four-string bass is usually the preferred choice for beginners. Many famous musicians including Flea and Jeff Berlin have played four-string basses and still do to this day.
The Bass Body
The body is the first thing you’ll notice on any bass guitar. The body shape of a bass guitar significantly influences its comfort, aesthetics, and tonal characteristics. Every brand has its own body shape but you can really break them up into two main categories. Whether you’re in the market for your first or fifth bass, you may be torn between two iconic solid body bass designs, Precision and Jazz Basses.
The Precision Bass (P-Bass) shape is iconic for its contoured, ergonomic design. Introduced by Leo Fender back in 1951, it was the first mass-produced electric bass guitar, and its design has remained a benchmark for comfort and playability. The P-Bass is most associated with Rock and punk but is also widely used in dub bass styles like Reggae.
The Jazz Bass (J-Bass) shape, introduced by Fender in 1960, is a sleeker and more refined evolution of the Precision Bass (P-Bass). Its offset waist design provides excellent balance and comfort, particularly when played in a seated position, making it a favourite for many bassists.
New Vs Old
Another thing to keep in mind when buying a bass guitar in AU is whether to choose a new or used musical instrument. And to do that, you’ll need to weigh down the pros and cons.
When purchasing a new one, for instance, you may rest easy knowing that no one else has used it. It will probably last you a very long time and is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Purchasing a used bass has the benefit of being less expensive, however, you can't be certain of its quality or how long it will last. For novices, purchasing a used instrument can be the ideal option because they are fresh to the world of bass playing and may decide to try a different instrument instead.
Budget
Last but not least, your budget will also play a major role in determining which bass guitar is right for you. Finding a balance between price and quality is important. While sometimes you might be tempted to choose a cheaper option, buying a higher-quality bass will pay off in the long run.
After all, 'The bass guitar you choose is an extension of your personality. It should resonate with who you are as a musician.
