Ranking the best bass guitars for 2022

The bass guitar is a plucked stringed instrument designed to play in the bass range. Most musicians produce sound with their fingers, but few also use a plectrum.

The progenitor of this musical instrument is the double bass, but, unlike it, the bass guitar has a less massive body, as well as a scale. Design features suggest the use of only 4 strings in the instrument in question, but sometimes there are modifications with a large number of them.

The first bass guitar was released in 1951, it quickly gained recognition and popularity. It was made at the expense of the famous American businessman Leo Fender.

In this article, we will consider the main tips and tricks for choosing a bass guitar, compile a rating of high-quality and popular models for both beginner bass players and professional musicians.

How to choose a bass guitar and what to look for in order not to make mistakes when choosing

It is usually difficult for beginners to decide which brand of bass is best, as they have little idea of ​​what kinds and types of guitars there are. The main selection criteria for them is the popularity of models among the "experienced", the manufacturer (brand), the material of manufacture.

All these parameters should not be taken into account by amateurs, since the first criterion may differ significantly for different musicians, as it depends on the personal preferences of the person.

The manufacturing company also does not always guarantee the quality of the goods sold, and the products of the best of them can be significantly inferior to cheaper models of competitors.

It is also not always worth paying attention to the wood from which the guitar is made, since for amateurs the difference in sound may not be noticeable, the differences will become clear only with experience. Most often, maple, cedar, swamp ash, and mahogany guitars are on sale.

When choosing a guitar, you should choose models that you like in appearance. For the first bass guitar, it is recommended to choose a classic body shape. Balance is also important (the neck should not outweigh, which can be an additional hindrance when playing while standing).

Tips for choosing the best bass guitar:

1. An instrument that is not connected to the power supply should sound.In order to check the performance, you need to pull the string harder and wait until the sounds and vibration fade away. The longer the playing time, the better the guitar in front of you.
2. After you have evaluated the sound on an unconnected guitar, you should connect it to the amplifier and evaluate the presence of extraneous noise, buzzing. Ideally, they should be absent, but in budget models a small amount of them is allowed. When changing the volume level, the sound should change evenly, without sudden jumps.
3. Price. Rarely, but there are cases when a cheap bass is not inferior in quality to a branded and expensive one. But, in most cases, how much a bass guitar costs directly depends on its final price. For beginners, experts advise focusing on the price segment in the region of 12,000 - 19,000 rubles.
4. Build quality. The product must be completely free of play, all parts must be fitted to each other, all protrusions must be rounded and not cling to surrounding objects. Pegs and bridge should be made of high quality and wear-resistant materials. The neck should be tightly attached to the body, which will allow the vibration from the impact on the strings to be transmitted to it. In case of a loose fit, the bass may not be able to keep up with the tuning.
5. The quality of the color is also an important parameter. The paint should not have bubbles, non-paint, streaks, chips and other mechanical damage.
6. A self-respecting manufacturer supplies only customized products to the store, the work of which can be immediately evaluated.
7. According to buyers, when choosing a guitar, it is worth evaluating the distance between the strings and the frets.It should not be too large, as this will create some inconvenience when playing the guitar.
8. When buying, be sure to check the sound of each string. The right instrument should play the required note on any of them.
9. On budget models, painted necks should be avoided. Unscrupulous manufacturers are trying in this way to hide the oblique direction of the wood fibers, which indicate that the product will not last long, since under the influence of low temperatures (when taken out to frost), it can be deformed.
10. As mentioned earlier, it is difficult for beginners to decide on the material of manufacture of the guitar, since they are not always able to capture the subtleties of the sound of products from different types of wood. We recommend picking light wood tone fingerboards (such as maple) that accentuate the high notes while darker ones accentuate the low notes.
11. For inexperienced bass players, it is recommended to pick up instruments with four strings, since most musical compositions do not require more. The fifth string is appropriate only for some professional models, since in inexpensive bass guitars it does not give the desired sound, but only adds a certain amount to the cost of the goods.
12. It is recommended to choose the standard scale for the scale, as well as the pickup scheme. After you get some experience with the bass guitar, you will understand which circuit is right for you.
13. Active and passive electronics. The first option implies the presence of a built-in amplifier, which in most cases is powered by a battery. Experienced musicians for beginners do not recommend devices with active electronics.This is due to the fact that at first there is no need for it, while it prevents you from feeling a clear sound.
14. After you have decided on a specific model, you need to try it on yourself, try to play a simple melody. Playing the guitar should be comfortable, nothing should interfere with the musician.
15. According to customer reviews, budget-priced multi-string guitars with multi-band EQ are nothing more than a publicity stunt, and you should not buy such a product, as it will not meet your expectations. Be that as it may, a good and high-quality guitar cannot be cheap.
16. In some cases, the best bet is to buy a bass that has been used but is in good condition. When buying such a product, it should be more carefully checked for external and hidden defects. It is recommended to bring an experienced musician with you to the meeting with the seller.
17. For beginners, fretless bass guitars are not recommended. In such products, the string is pressed directly against the overlay. With this technology, a rattling sound is produced, similar to that extracted from double basses. Fretless basses require perfect hearing and precise playing from the musician, which can become a hindrance to mastering the instrument. Frets make it possible to play notes more accurately and correctly. After a beginner reaches a certain level of playing, you can buy a fretless bass. As a rule, such guitars are purchased as a second instrument.

Review of Quality Bass Guitars for 2022

Fender Squier SQ AFF J Bass V LRL BLK

 

This model is recognized as the standard and one of the most popular bass guitars. It has the best combination of price and quality. Available in 4-string and 5-string versions.

The original design (combination of black and white) and excellent sound have gained popularity among many bass players. The alder body (some modifications are made of agathis) is combined with a maple neck, allowing you to extract the most complex melodies from the guitar. The overlay is made of Indian laurel. The finish is complemented by matte polyurethane inserts. The neck is attached to the body in a standard way, using four bolts. All fittings are chrome-plated, the sills are made of synthetic bone. There is an inlay with white dots.

The C-shaped neck profile allows it to be ergonomically placed in the hands of the musician and does not cause discomfort during long playing. The whole structure is securely assembled, there are no backlashes. The product has 20 frets, which have good wear resistance.

The functionality and convenience of the bass are at their best, the electronics are reliable and do not raise questions even after prolonged use. Bridge is fixed. Electronics is passive. The tool of the famous American brand Fender is mostly made at the production facilities of China.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Fender, USA
Color	black White
Number of frets	20
Fret size	Medium jumbo
mensura	34
Number of strings	5
Housing material	alder
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Pickup type	Single-Coil Jazz Bass
lining radius	9,5 "
Regulators	Volume 1, Volume 2, Master Tone
kolki	standard, open type
strings	Fender® USA Bass 7250ML, NPS, (.045-.100)
Average price, rub.	33 000

• good value for money;
• ergonomic arrangement in hands;
• high-quality assembly and finishing materials;
• attractive appearance.

• not suitable for lefties;
• the neck is bolted;
• as it is a well-known brand guitar, it is more expensive than similar products from budget manufacturers.

Cort Action-Bass-V-Plus-BK

 

This model of Indonesian origin is popular with beginner bassists, which is due to good stuffing combined with a budget price. You can buy a bass guitar not only at music points of sale, it is also possible to order it online in an online store, where, due to high demand, it is almost always in stock.

The body of the product is made of poplar, painted black. The maple neck, as in the previous model, is bolted on. The fingerboard is made of rosewood, inlaid with white dots. The wood is well dried, which lightens the overall weight of the product and makes it possible to play the guitar for a long time without fatigue. On such a device, not only beginners can play, but also girls who find it difficult to hold the weight of a large instrument. The shape of the case combines classic and modern style, the device is conveniently located in the hands of the user.

The bass sound is balanced due to the use of pickups in the bridge and neck. All fittings are chrome-plated, the electronics are active (there is a built-in two-band equalizer, as well as passive pickups). Bridge is fixed. The saddles are made of synthetic bone, which prevents their rapid wear during operation. Sustain is weak due to the bolted neck. The built-in equalizer allows you to adjust the volume, tone, bass and treble. Such features expand the tonal range, and focus the bottoms.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Cort, Indonesia
Color	black
Number of frets	24
Bridge type	fixed
mensura	34
Number of strings	5
Housing material	poplar
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Pickup type	Powersound (PSEB1-5/R and PSEB1-5/F), passive
Pickup Diagram	S-S
Regulators	Two-band equalizer, volume and tone controls
Peg mechanics	cast, bridge
Built-in tuner	missing
Average price, rub.	14 800

• budget price;
• 5 strings;
• there is a built-in equalizer;
• attractive design;
• standard J type pickups with balance control;
• light weight.

• bolted neck;
• there is no way to play on the left hand.

Ashtone AB-11

This model is an inexpensive replica of the famous Fender P-Bass. The instrument has four strings. There are two color combinations to choose from: black and brown or white and orange. The neck is designed for 20 frets. There are two built-in pickups - single and split. The first sounds more natural, but quieter than the second.

The body of the product is made of rosewood, the neck is made of maple. The package includes nylon strings. Bolt fastening. This bass guitar is a good option for a beginner player. The light weight and long neck make it easy to hold the bass in your hands. The product is lacquered on top. There is a dot inlay. The deck is fragile, damaged by the slightest mechanical impact. All fittings are chrome plated.

An experienced musician, as a rule, has no difficulty in distinguishing this fake from the original.In addition to the price, the difference can be seen in the quality of the materials, the poor processing of the wood on the sills (over time, they rise a little, which affects the sound quality badly).

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Ashton, China
Color	black/brown, white/orange
Number of frets	20
Bridge type	fixed
Number of strings	4
Housing material	rosewood
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Pickup Diagram	H-H
Regulators	Volume and tone controls
Pickup manufacturer	manufacturer
Built-in tuner	missing
Average price, rub.	10 000

• profitable price;
• good value for money;
• suitable for beginners;
• available in different colors.

• nylon strings;
• bolted neck;
• not suitable for lefties.

Yamaha TRBX174

 

Musical instruments of this Japanese production are invariably famous for their excellent quality. The bass in question was no exception. Thanks to the budget price, the model allows a beginner to pick up a professional-level instrument.

The deck is made of alder. This material is characterized by a balanced and tight sound with a clear low end. The neck is made of maple with a rosewood fretboard. It is attached to the body with a bolted connection.

Two universal P and J type pickups allow you to play almost all musical genres on the bass guitar - rock, blues, metal, etc. As in most similar devices, there are two volume controls and one tone control.

The assembly of the device is made at a high level - all the protrusions are smoothed, the pins move smoothly and without jerks, the electronics work clearly and without interference.The guitar fits comfortably in the hands, access to all elements is not limited by anything. This instrument is universal, and is well suited for both beginner bassists and professionals. It can be played in almost all genres, extracting the sound of any key.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Yamaha, Japan (produced in China or Indonesia)
Color	red, metallic blue, black, brown
Number of frets	24
Fretboard width, mm	40
mensura	34
Number of strings	4
Housing material	alder
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Pickup manufacturer	manufacturer
Overlay radius, mm	254
Regulators	Volume 1, volume 2, tone control
Pickup Diagram	S S
Bridge type	fixed
Hardware color	chromium
Average price, rub.	19 000

• build quality and materials;
• a wide selection of colors;
• good sounding of both upper and lower tones;
• good value for money;
• attractive appearance.

• not suitable for lefties;
• buyers may have problems with where to buy the original instrument, as stores often offer a fake.

Music Man Sterling

The well-known American brand Music Man is well known among professional bassists. The Sterling modification is a slightly smaller version of the Stingray series, which has a thinner neck.

The body of the product is made of ash, which gives it not only a signature sound, but also light weight, compared to guitars made from alder. According to bass players, this model has a long sustain and a complex harmonica.Special alloy tuners, an active preamp and a three-band equalizer make it possible to play any tune. The system is stable, the middle notes are clear, the bass sounds inimitable.

Optionally, a piezo transducer, pickups of various schemes are installed on the bass. A wide choice of colors makes it possible to choose a guitar to the liking of even the most fastidious musician. The neck is attached to the body with bolts, the bridge is fixed.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Music Man, USA
Color	black, stealth black, white, white pearl, sterling silver, sapphire black, blue pearl, candy red, translucent gold, tobacco burst, vintage sunburst, honey burst, black cherry burst, pacific blue burst, tangerine pearl, natural, sky blue
Number of frets	22
Fretboard width, mm	38
mensura	34
Number of strings	4
Housing material	ash
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Pickup manufacturer	manufacturer
Overlay radius, mm	279
Regulators	1 volume control, 3 tone controls
Pickup Diagram	H-S (optional H-H)
Bridge type	fixed
Bridge name	Standard - Music Man® chrome plated, hardened steel bridge
Active electronics	there is
Hardware color	chromium
Average price, rub.	28 000

• quality sound;
• assembly and components of high class;
• installation of various schemes of pickups and a piezoelectric sensor is possible;
• light weight.

• high price.

Peerless Smoked Bass Custom

This is a top notch bass guitar. It is made of laminated maple, with a plywood neck. The central block is made of mahogany. The soundboard is edged with a tricolor stripe (black, ivory, mother-of-pearl).The body is covered with a matte polish and lacquered top. The neck is glued to the body at the 15th fret. The fretboard is made of rosewood and also has a triple binding. The tuning mechanism is gilded. The guitar comes with a leatherette case.

Since this is a professional grade guitar, it is most often purchased by experienced bassists. You can learn to play music on it, but because of its high price, it is irrational. The classical form and unusual design will draw attention in any musical group.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Peerless, South Korea
Color	light black
Number of frets	20
Fretboard width, mm	40
mensura	34
Number of strings	4
Housing material	maple
Neck material	maple, mahogany
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Nut material	bone
Pickup type	ceramic neck with 8 Side Winder magnets, bridge 4-string humbucker with Alnico magnets
Regulators	2 volumes, 1 tone
Pickup Diagram	H-H
Bridge type	fixed
Bridge name	Roller Bridge
Active electronics	No
Built-in tuner	No
Hardware color	gold
Average price, rub.	108 000

• quality components;
• professional sound;
• high level of finishing;
• unusual edging.

• due to the high price, novice musicians cannot afford such a purchase;
• not suitable for lefties;
• rarely available in stores.

Fernandes Guitars RJB-380

This brand is not the most popular, but it is known among musicians as a manufacturer of quality instruments at a bargain price.The "chip" of the guitar is the pickups, which, unlike other basses, are rectangular, not round. It makes it possible to better clean up and capture sound.

Despite the fact that the bass is made in China, its assembly is not satisfactory. The nut does not need to be adjusted, as does the anchor along with the bridge. The strings are located low and high, while playing there are no extraneous noises and rattles. Bolted fastening. The body is made of alder, the neck is made of maple, the fretboard is made of rosewood.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Fernandes, China
Color	3 tone sunburst, candy apple red, snow white, vintage blue
Number of frets	20
Overlay radius, mm	400
mensura	34
Number of strings	4
Housing material	alder
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Pickup manufacturer	manufacturer
Regulators	2 volumes, 1 tone
Pickup Diagram	S-S
Bridge type	fixed
Active electronics	No
Built-in tuner	No
Hardware color	chromium
Average price, rub.	25 000

• good value for money;
• quality pickups;
• attractive appearance.

• the bass guitar is not popular with musicians who have a biased opinion of goods made in China, and therefore it is difficult to find it on the free market.

Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV

The first modification of this model was made in 1963, and due to its unusual design and non-standard sound, it became the hallmark of Epiphone. The model is a replica of the famous Gibson Thunderbird IV bass. The Goth modification is distinguished by its black color and the image of a cross on the pickguard.

The body of the device is made of mahogany, the neck is maple, fastened with a bolted connection. In order to save money, the manufacturer abandoned its through fastening. This is the main difference between the replica and the original. As with most of these basses, the fretboard is made of rosewood. The bridge is fully adjustable. Branded humbuckers are built into it and neck. The black fittings continue the gothic style that is a signature feature of the model.

The pickups are passive, humbucker type, with medium power. The timbre block is passive, it consists of two volume controls for each pickup and a general tone. The instrument is best suited for areas such as hard rock and trash.

Specifications:

Index	Meaning
Manufacturer	Epiphone USA
Color	pitch black
Number of frets	22
Neck width at the nut, mm	38
mensura	34
Number of strings	4
Housing material	mahogany
Neck material	maple
Orientation	right-sided
Number of pickups	2
Gear ratio of pins	17:1
Regulators	2 volumes, 1 tone, 3 position sensor switch
Pickup Diagram	H-H
Bridge type	fixed
Bridge name	3-point fully adjustable
Active electronics	No
Built-in tuner	No
Hardware color	black
Average price, rub.	41 000

• custom design;
• quality sound;
• assembly and components of a high level.

• aggressive appearance is not liked by many classical music lovers;
• high price;
• not suitable for lefties.

Conclusion

Due to the wide variety of models and modifications, making a choice which bass guitar is better to buy is not only for a beginner, but even for a professional.It is most convenient to come to a retail store, hold the tool in your hands and get advice from the seller.

However, we do not recommend focusing only on the opinion of the seller, since he is a person interested in selling you goods at a higher price. If you are involved in some kind of musical group, you can ask experienced bass players which brand is best to give preference to.

We advise you not to consider buying Russian-made guitars, since they are inferior in quality to their counterparts, including Chinese ones, all other things being equal. For a beginner, inexpensive Korean or Chinese models are best suited. After you learn how to play budget basses, you can think about buying an expensive thing.

It should be remembered that the convenience of the instrument in the hands is an important parameter that affects how much a musician can play it without getting tired.

The most important thing is that the instrument should evoke positive emotions, not only in sound, but also in design, because for creative people the appearance of a bass guitar plays a big role, which is why professional musicians always have an instrument not only for music, but also for the soul.

We hope that our article will help you make the right choice and buy a guitar that will delight you for many years.