Welcome to the low end, the groove that complements every great track and forms the soul of rhythm and melody. The mighty bass guitar carves out its own melodic space in every song and is often the instrument that gets heads bopping. So, if you want a slice of that subsonic thump, we’ve got a round-up of the best bass guitars available today – with options for every kind of bassist!
Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or you’re a seasoned pro looking to add another instrument to your collection, selecting the right bass guitar is vital to getting the most out of your performance or playing time.
In this guide, we’ll go through everything from the budget to the brilliant, from the reliable workhorse to the virtuoso multi-scale marvels. Our selections are based on sound quality, build, brand reputation, and the subtle nuances that make a bass stand out in a crowd.
In a hurry?
If you’re short on time but eager to get your hands on the best bass guitars, here’s a quick snapshot of our top picks across various categories, each chosen for its unique appeal:
| Sterling Stingray Ray4 Bass | Excellent value with a vibrant finish and robust sound. | Check the current price |
| Fender Player II Precision Bass, Maple Fingerboard | Classic design with modern updates for enhanced playability. | Check the current price |
| G4M 878 Bass Guitar | Offers excellent value with good playability and a robust tone. | Check the current price |
Why we’ve chosen these bass guitars
When curating our list of the 13 best bass guitars, we considered a variety of factors to ensure we cover every type of bassist out there – from the enthusiastic beginner to the seasoned professional. Here’s why these picks stand out:
Versatility: Each bass guitar selected offers a range of tonal options, suited to different playing styles and musical genres. Whether it’s the rumbling lows of the Rickenbacker or the crisp precision of the Fender Player II P Bass, these instruments are designed to perform across multiple contexts.
Quality and build: Durability meets design in our selection. Instruments like the Music Man StingRay Special HH not only deliver stunning aesthetics in their Pacific Blue Burst finish but also ensure that quality is not compromised, featuring robust builds and high-end materials.
Value for money: Every bassist has a budget, and our list reflects models that provide the best value for their price points. From the affordable LA Bass Guitar by Gear4music to the premium Fender American Performer Precision Bass, we’ve included instruments that are worth every penny.
Innovative features: We also looked for basses that bring something unique to the table, such as the Sterling Stingray Ray4 with its vibrant Mint Green finish and active electronics, offering enhanced sound shaping capabilities for creative bassists.
Player-focused design: Comfort and playability are key. Models like the Ibanez EHB1505SMS feature an ergonomic, lightweight body that appeals to bassists who play long gigs or sessions, reducing strain without sacrificing tone.
By combining these elements, we’ve crafted a list that not only meets the diverse needs of bass players but also celebrates the broad spectrum of what modern bass guitars can offer. Whether you’re recording in a studio, performing live, or just jamming at home, there’s something here that will meet – and exceed – your expectations.
The best bass guitars
1. Sterling Stingray Ray4 Bass
Key features
- Onboard active preamp
- Low-noise ceramic humbucker
- Maple neck and fretboard
Pros
- Produces a massive, full-bodied bass sound perfect for modern music styles
- Sleek maple fretboard enhances comfort and speed, ideal for extended playing sessions
- Lightweight construction paired with high-quality hardware ensures durability and ease of use during performances
Cons
- The active preamp requires periodic battery changes, which may be inconvenient for some players
The Sterling Stingray Ray4 is a bassist’s dream, delivering a commanding presence in any musical ensemble. Equipped with a high-powered 9V preamp and a low-noise ceramic humbucker, this bass guitar offers a clean and dynamic sound that can adapt effortlessly from gentle grooves to aggressive riffs.
The sterling build quality (pun intended) includes a robust basswood body and a securely bolted maple neck, guaranteeing that it can withstand the rigours of touring and frequent performances.
Whether practising at home, recording in the studio, or rocking out on stage, the Sterling Stingray Ray4 provides unparalleled performance with a level of clarity and power that sets it apart from the crowd.
This bass ensures that every note you play is articulated perfectly, making it a perfect choice for bassists looking to elevate their musical expression with precision and style.
2. Fender Player II Precision Bass
Key features
- Alnico V split-coil pickups
- Contoured alder body
- Modern “C” neck profile
Pros
- Ergonomic body shape and smooth neck profile enhance playability and comfort
- Versatile tone suitable for a wide range of musical genres
- Stylish Aquatone Blue finish and classic Fender aesthetics
Cons
- Lacks a case or gig bag, which might be necessary for gigging musicians
The Fender Player II Precision Bass in Aquatone Blue marries classic Fender style with contemporary features for today’s bassist. The bass’s contoured alder body ensures comfort during long gigs or practice sessions, while the modern “C” neck profile with a satin urethane finish provides a smooth playing experience.
The Alnico V split-coil pickups offer a tone that’s both balanced and powerful, capable of handling everything from smooth jazz to aggressive rock with ease.
Additionally, the 9.5” radius maple fingerboard with rolled edges offers luxurious playability across all frets. Precision crafted for both novice and professional players, this bass boasts an adjustable four-saddle bridge and reliable open-gear tuners, ensuring stable tuning and precise intonation.
Whether on stage or in the studio, the Player II Precision Bass stands out not just for its striking colour and classic good looks but also for its versatile and dynamic sound.
3. G4M 878 Bass Guitar
Key features
- USA basswood body
- Dual passive soapbar pickups
- Graphtech Nubone nut
Pros
- Comfortable C-neck profile and a 34.5″ scale length make it easy to play
- Separate volume and tone controls for each pickup allow for precise sound customisation
- Stylish all-black aesthetic with a high-quality finish
Cons
- Passive pickups may not offer the output required for more modern, high-gain styles
The G4M 878 Bass Guitar is an excellent choice for bassists looking for quality without compromise. With its sleek all-black finish and robust USA Basswood body, this instrument not only looks great but also provides a balanced tonal foundation suitable for any genre, from jazz to rock.
The dual passive soapbar pickups produce a warm, rich sound, while the separate volume and tone controls ensure that you can tailor your tone to your exact preferences.
A Graphtech Nubone nut adds to the instrument’s durability and consistency, providing better intonation and increased sustain. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the G4M 878 offers a comfortable playing experience with its user-friendly C-shaped neck and easy access to all 24 frets. This bass is designed to perform and impress, making it a reliable companion for both practice and performance.
4. LA Bass Guitar by Gear4music
Key features
- Lightweight paulownia body
- Split-coil humbucking pickup
- Includes free jack cable and gig bag
Pros
- Affordable price for beginners or those on a budget
- Stylish silver finish is suitable for a wide range of players and genres
- Designed with younger or beginner players in mind, making it easy to handle and play
Cons
- Might not satisfy the needs of more experienced players looking for a broader range of sounds
The LA Bass Guitar by Gear4music is an ideal choice for beginners or younger musicians looking for a reliable, stylish, and easy-to-play instrument without breaking the bank. Constructed from lightweight paulownia wood, this bass is easy on the shoulders, allowing for extended practice sessions without discomfort.
The classic split-coil humbucking pickup ensures that the bass produces a clear and punchy tone, suitable for various music styles, from rock to jazz.
It comes with a free jack cable and gig bag, which are great additions for new players ready to start their musical journey. Although the LA Bass Guitar offers excellent features for its price, more seasoned players might find the tonal options somewhat limited. Nonetheless, this bass is a standout choice for its affordability, ease of use, and the inclusion of essential accessories, making it a fantastic starter instrument.
5. Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass MN
Key features
- Fender-designed Alnico single-coil pickups
- Maple ‘C’-shaped neck
- Vintage-style aesthetics
Pros
- Vintage sound with the reliability of modern construction
- Ergonomic design makes it easy to play for extended periods
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio, ideal for budget-conscious musicians
Cons
- May require setup adjustments out of the box for optimal playability
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jazz Bass MN transports you back to the golden era of funk and rock with its stylish vintage looks and robust sound. This bass features the revered Fender-designed Alnico single-coil pickups, known for their ability to produce a warm, rich tone that’s both clear and powerful.
Whether you’re grooving in the studio or performing live, this bass’ classic shape, natural finish, and sonic versatility make it suitable for a wide variety of styles and players.
The smooth maple ‘C’-shaped neck and maple fretboard enhance playability, offering a bright tonal character that complements the deep, resonant basslines. Equipped with quality hardware including a vintage-style bridge and tuners, this Squier Jazz Bass is built to withstand the rigors of regular use while delivering consistent performance.
6. Epiphone Viola Bass
Key features
- Maple neck and body
- NYR & NYT mini humbuckers
- Vintage aesthetic
Pros
- Unique look and sound reminiscent of the ’60s rock and roll
- Individual volume controls for each pickup allow precise tonal blending
- Compact and comfortable design, ideal for players transitioning from guitar
Cons
- Shorter scale length might not suit players used to standard or longer basses
The Epiphone Viola Bass embodies the spirit of the 1960s with its distinctive look and sound. Crafted from maple with a laminated top, this bass produces bright highs and tight lows, perfect for achieving that vintage British sound.
With a pair of NYR and NYT mini humbuckers, the bass produces warm, clear, and bright tones that cut through in any mix. Plus, its vintage sunburst finish and scroll tailpiece make it a visual standout on any stage.
A slightly shorter 30.5” scale length provides ease of playability, especially for those who might find standard basses too cumbersome. Additionally, the separate volume controls for each pickup, along with a master tone control, allow you to fine-tune your sound to perfect clarity.
7. Yamaha TRBX 504 Bass
Key features
- Yamaha H5 pickups
- Three-band EQ
- Solid mahogany body
Pros
- Versatile sound suitable for various musical styles
- Built-in active/passive preamp for tonal flexibility
- Comfortable five-piece maple and mahogany neck enhances playability
Cons
- May require some setup for optimal playability out of the box
The Yamaha TRBX 504 Bass showcases a blend of robust construction and refined electronics that give it a balanced, rich sound profile. The advanced H5 pickups amplify your playing’s true character, while the comprehensive three-band EQ lets you tailor your tone to perfection, from deep, groovy lines to bright, cutting solos.
With a mahogany body and sleek design, the bass is comfortable to play and has the durability to handle powerful basslines, gig after gig.
8. Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4 Bass Guitar
Key features
- Schecter Diamond bass pickups
- Mahogany body with quilted maple top
- Active two-band EQ
Pros
- Stunning see-thru black finish with quilted maple top catches the eye
- Versatile sound capabilities, perfect for players who cover multiple styles
- Robust build quality with high-end materials like a Graph Tech nut and black chrome hardware
Cons
- The active electronics may require regular battery changes
The Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4 Bass Guitar combines striking aesthetics with exceptional sound versatility. Crafted from mahogany with a visually stunning quilted maple top, this bass offers not only durability but also a rich, warm tonal foundation that complements any musical setting. The bolt-on maple neck and rosewood fretboard enhance the bass’s bright characteristics, bringing clarity to its highs and solidifying its lows.
Equipped with Schecter’s own Diamond bass pickups and an active two-band EQ, the Stiletto Extreme-4 allows you to dial in your desired sound with precision, whether you’re laying down grooves in a jazz ensemble or driving the rhythm in a metal band.
With its black chrome hardware and sleek see-thru black finish, this bass is sure to stand out on stage both visually and sonically. The combination of premium materials and versatile electronics makes it an ideal choice for serious bassists looking for a mainstay instrument in their arsenal.
9. Fender Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass
Key features
- Classic Geddy Lee tone with dual American vintage single-coil Jazz Bass pickups
- High-mass bridge
- Vintage ’70s aesthetic with stamped open-gear tuners
Pros
- Delivers iconic, rich, and versatile tones ideal for various musical genres
- Includes a padded gig bag for safe and easy transportation
- Lightweight alder body ensures comfort during extended playing sessions
Cons
- Limited to a vintage sound which may not suit all modern playing styles
Any Rush fans in the house? Yes? No? To be honest, it doesn’t really matter whether you are or not, because Fender’s Geddy Lee Jazz Bass Signature is a whole lotta guitar for the money. Featuring vintage Jazz Bass style and aesthetic appointments and a few Geddy tweaks, it’s a solid option for any bassist who needs a quality, reliable performer that can handle anything from prog rock to smooth blues.
Crafted with an alder body, this bass is both light and resonant, ensuring a comfortable play across multiple settings from the studio to the stage. Its dual American vintage single-coil pickups offer the quintessential Jazz Bass sound – punchy, clear, and robust, allowing you to dial in tones from deep growls to articulate highs effortlessly.
The high-mass bridge not only augments sustain but also enhances the overall tuning stability of the instrument. Styled with a classic black finish and featuring vintage ’70s stamped open gear tuners, this bass exudes a retro vibe paired with modern playability.
The maple neck with its sleek “C” profile and the smooth maple fingerboard add to the comfort and speed Geddy Lee is known for. Whether you’re covering Rush’s intricate basslines or forging your own path, this signature Jazz Bass delivers a performance worthy of its namesake.
10. Steinberger Spirit XT-2 Standard Bass Outfit
Key features
- Compact, headless design
- Steinberger HP pickups
- Deluxe gigbag included
Pros
- Ultra-portable design without sacrificing sound quality
- Ergonomic body shape and neck profile for comfortable playability
- Versatile tone settings with dedicated volume control for each pickup
Cons
- The unique design might require some adjustment for players used to traditional bass guitars.
This one is slightly out of leftfield, as Steinberger’s compact bass is far from the usual. But if you’re a bassist who’s constantly on the move, then a super-slim instrument might be the perfect solution – as we’re all too familiar with the bulky awkwardness of transporting a full-size model.
The Spirit XT-2 serves up a bevvy of features to make it lightweight and easy to move, without compromising tone or performance. Its headless construction carries the dual purpose of decreased weight and better balance, in addition to an even string tension. On top of that, Steinberger’s HP pickups can easily slot into a variety of genres and styles and can be controlled through individual volume and a master tone control.
At a full 34” scale length, you’ll still need sufficient space to carry it with you, but the headless design and ultra-trim body make it far lighter and ergonomic than a standard bass. Pair the Spirit XT-2 with a headphone amp like the Boss Katana GO and you can enjoy rich bass rumbles wherever you go!
11. Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNL
Key features
- Nordstrand big split pickups
- Active/passive Vari-Mid three-band EQ
- Headless design
Pros
- Unique headless design for improved balance and easier access to higher frets
- Panga Panga/Walnut neck reinforced with graphite for exceptional durability and stability
- Advanced electronics with active/passive options for extensive tonal versatility
Cons
- The headless design and advanced features may have a steeper learning curve for traditional players.
The Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNL is a cutting-edge bass guitar designed for bassists who demand precision and versatility in their instrument. This model, part of Ibanez’s esteemed Bass Workshop series, features a headless design that not only improves the instrument’s balance but also enhances its overall playability and tuning stability.
Equipped with Nordstrand Big Split pickups, this bass offers a tonal richness that can adapt fluidly across various musical styles, from jazz and blues to rock and metal.
The active/passive Vari-Mid three-band EQ further allows musicians to dial in their desired sound with precision, whether on stage or in the studio. The bass’s ergonomic body, crafted from selected lightweight African mahogany with a poplar burl top, ensures comfort during long playing sessions while also providing a visually striking appearance.
With additional features like a detachable finger ramp, luminescent side dots for visibility in low light, and Schaller S-Locks for secure strap attachment, the Ibanez EHB1505SMS is a truly versatile and high-performance bass that meets the needs of modern, technically oriented bass players.
12. Rickenbacker 4003S Bass
Key features
- Single-coil pickups
- Neck-through-body construction
- Maple body
Pros
- Iconic sound with a rich history in rock music
- Exceptional build quality suitable for touring
- Comfortable playability with rolled fingerboard edges
Cons
- The unique design and tone might not suit all playing styles
The Rickenbacker 4003S Bass is a homage to the legendary 4001 model, revered by some of the greatest musicians in rock history. This bass brings the quintessential Rickenbacker tone – deep lows and singing highs – into a modern context. Its neck-through-body construction not only adds to the bass’s durability but also enhances the sustain, allowing each note to resonate fully.
Equipped with two single-coil pickups, the 4003S offers a tonal clarity and power that can handle any genre from rock to jazz, making it a versatile choice for serious musicians. The streamlined maple body ensures a comfortable playing experience. With features designed to maximize both tone and playability, the Rickenbacker 4003S is not just a bass but a piece of music history.
13. Music Man StingRay Special HH
Key features
- Dual humbucking pickups
- Active preamp with three-band EQ
- Roasted maple neck
Pros
- The dual humbucking configuration offers powerful sound and versatility for various music genres
- Advanced electronics with a three-band EQ for detailed tone adjustments
- Iconic design with a striking Pacific Blue Burst finish that stands out on stage
Cons
- The premium features and build quality come at a higher price point, which might not suit all budgets
We’re not content to simply add one StingRay to our list; bassists shopping at the higher end of the spectrum deserve the full salvo of power and performance that a bona fide Music Man can deliver. The StingRay Special boasts a gut-punching wallop from its dual neodymium humbuckers, a pair of pickups that can easily navigate the sea of genres that modern pro bassists encounter.
Thanks to Music Man’s active preamp tone shaping, you can coax just about any required sound from the StingRay Special, be it a thunderous thump for metalcore or a bright blast for funk and jazz.
The roasted maple neck not only adds to the instrument’s stunning aesthetics but also provides a stable, durable foundation for performance. With its sleek, modern design and exceptional sound quality, the StingRay Special HH is designed to meet the needs of professional musicians who demand reliability and control over their tone.
This bass is an excellent choice for those who appreciate precision in both craftsmanship and sound.
How to choose the best bass guitar for you
Pickups and tone
When selecting a bass guitar, the pickups are crucial as they significantly affect the instrument’s tone. Single-coil pickups, like those found on the Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass, offer a bright and punchy sound ideal for genres like funk and rock. In contrast, humbuckers, such as those on the Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4, provide a thicker, warmer tone that works well for metal and jazz.
Additionally, active pickups come with a preamp for extra power and tone shaping, suitable for players who need more control over their sound, while passive pickups offer a more traditional tone.
Number of strings
Bass guitars typically come with four to six strings. Four-string basses, like the LA Bass Guitar by Gear4music, are perfect for beginners due to their simplicity and sufficient range for most styles.
Five-string basses, such as the Yamaha TRBX 504, add a lower B string that extends the lower range, ideal for genres like metal and progressive rock. Six-string basses offer even greater range and flexibility, suitable for advanced players interested in solo and chordal playing.
Fret access
Fret access is an essential factor, especially for players who perform a lot of lead work or solos. Basses like the Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNL, with its headless design, offer enhanced upper fret access, making it easier to play higher notes comfortably. Look for features like a cutaway body or a neck-through design that can provide easier access to the upper frets.
Long-scale vs. short-scale
Scale length affects both the tone and playability of a bass.
Long-scale basses, typically around 34 inches like the Fender Player II Precision Bass, provide a tighter, more defined sound. Short-scale basses, like the Epiphone Viola Bass with a 30.5-inch scale, offer a warmer tone and reduced string tension, making them easier to play and a good choice for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more vintage sound.
Weight
The weight of the bass can impact how comfortable it is to play, especially during long playing sessions. Lightweight basses like the Yamaha TRBX 504 are made from materials like mahogany, which offer a good balance between tone and comfort. Heavier basses can cause fatigue over time, so it’s important to consider the weight if you perform frequently or have back issues.
Active vs. passive bass guitar
When deciding between an active and a passive bass guitar, you need to understand the difference in their electronics. Passive basses do not have an onboard preamp, meaning they rely solely on the pickups to generate the sound, which is then sent directly to the amplifier. This setup tends to produce a warmer, more vintage tone that’s beloved in genres such as blues and classic rock.
Passive basses are often celebrated for their dynamic sensitivity; the sound can change significantly based on your playing strength and technique.
Active basses, on the other hand, include a built-in preamp powered typically by a 9V or 18V battery. This preamp boosts the signal from the pickups before it reaches the amp, allowing for more control over the sound.
Active basses generally offer enhanced tonal versatility, with built-in EQ settings to boost or cut bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. This makes them particularly suited for genres that demand precise tonal shaping like metal, funk, and modern rock.
The choice between active and passive basses can significantly affect your sound and playing style. If you prefer a straightforward, classic bass tone and play primarily with dynamics, a passive bass might be your best choice. However, if you require versatility and control over your sound for various playing environments, an active bass would be more suitable.
How much should you spend on a bass guitar?
Deciding how much to spend on a bass guitar largely depends on your commitment level, playing ability, and specific requirements from the instrument. Prices for bass guitars range from under £150 for basic beginner models to several thousand pounds for professional-grade instruments.
At the entry level, budget bass guitars costing between £150 and £300 often offer solid build quality and basic functionality, suitable for beginners. These instruments are typically made with more affordable materials and simpler electronics but are fully capable of delivering a satisfactory learning and practice experience.
Mid-range bass guitars, priced between £400 and £800, provide better craftsmanship, higher quality materials, and more sophisticated electronics. These basses are likely to offer more tonal variety and improved playability, making them suitable for intermediate players or those looking to upgrade from their first bass.
For professional musicians or serious enthusiasts, instruments costing over £800 feature top-tier components, exceptional build quality, and nuanced tone capabilities. These basses are designed to meet the demands of recording and touring, providing reliability and extensive sound customization options.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of a bass amp, which is essential to fully realise the potential of your bass guitar. The amp can significantly affect the overall sound and performance, so it’s important to budget for this as well.
Best bass guitar brands
When delving into the world of bass guitars, several brands consistently stand out for their quality, innovation, and influence on music. Here’s a look at five top bass guitar brands and why they’re revered in the bass community:
Fender
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic names in music, Fender are synonymous with the electric bass revolution. With models like the Precision Bass and Jazz Bass, Fender set the standard for electric bass guitar design since the 1950s.
These basses are celebrated for their robust construction, versatile tone, and profound impact across all music genres. Fender basses are a favourite among beginners and professional musicians alike, thanks to their reliable quality and classic sounds.
Music Man
Known for innovation and quality, Music Man are known for their distinctive bass models like the StingRay. Introduced in the mid-1970s, the StingRay was one of the first basses to feature active electronics, offering players enhanced tonal control and a punchy sound that has become a hallmark for funk and rock bassists. Music Man continue to push the boundaries with their ergonomic designs and advanced features.
Rickenbacker
Famous for their rich, resonant tones and striking aesthetics, Rickenbacker basses have been a preferred choice of countless legendary bassists. The 4001 and 4003 models are particularly notable for their unique, ringing sustain and trebly punch, which have defined the sound of rock music from the 1960s onwards.
Ibanez
Ibanez appeal to bassists with their modern designs and affordability. Known for their fast necks and versatile EQ systems, Ibanez basses cater to a wide range of styles but are particularly favoured in the metal and rock scenes. Their BTB and SR series offer innovative features like extended range (five-string, six-string basses) and multi-scale fretboards, addressing the needs of modern bass players.
Gibson
While primarily known for their guitars, Gibson also offers iconic bass models like the Thunderbird and the EB series. Gibson basses are praised for their deep, growling tones and solid build, making them a staple in the world of rock and blues. The Thunderbird, for example, is recognised for its distinctive shape and powerful output, providing both visual stage presence and sonorous bass lines.
FAQs
What is the highest quality bass guitar?
The Fender American Ultra Precision Bass is often considered the highest quality bass guitar, offering superb craftsmanship, versatile tones, and exceptional playability.
What basses do famous bass players use?
Famous bassists often prefer iconic models like the Fender Jazz Bass, Rickenbacker 4003, and Music Man StingRay. These basses are chosen for their distinctive sounds and reliability across diverse musical styles.
How to pick out a good bass guitar?
To pick a good bass guitar, consider the sound quality, comfort, and playability. Check the build quality, feel the neck and fret access, and listen to the tone. Choose active or passive pickups based on desired sound. Test several to find your best fit.
Final thoughts
There’s a bass out there for everyone, regardless of ability level or budget, we’ve got an instrument that could be your perfect match!
Even if there are a few models on our list of the best bass guitars outside of your skill or price range, it could be someone to work towards.
If you’re looking for other bass content to sink your teeth into, why not check out our bass practice amp guide, easy bass riffs guide, or our short-scale bass guide?
Comment below if you think there’s any bass we missed, or if you have any questions!
0 Comments