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Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Basic Tips in Buying a Bass Guitar

By Jackie Strohm

If you slap the bass big time and do not have a bass guitar, then it is high time that you do. Picking a bass guitar that really suits your need and performs to your standards may be tricky. There are a lot of things to consider when you make a bass guitar purchase. Luckily, this guide will help you pick the perfect bass guitar for your act.

The body style of your bass guitar matters a lot. If you are into loud bass action, then a solid-body bass guitar will suit you real fine. However, if you play notes that are on the mellow side, try a bass guitar that sports a hollow body. It is much rounder and produces an acoustic sound better than electric ones.

Once you have the body figured out, its time to check the neck. Picking the guitar with the perfect neck is easy. Just take a look at the size of your hands. The type of neck is relatively dependent on how big or small your hands are. Whether you prefer round, flat back, oval, "vee" and asymmetrical types of neck, small hands mean thinner necks and vice versa.

Scale length is also a necessary attribute. All you have to do is remember that a bass guitar that has short scale lengths is the best instrument for guitar players with small hands. But you can still pick guitars that have longer scale lengths provided you can master them at your own pace.

A bass guitar must come with a fully functional tuning machine. This little device is what you use to fine tune your instrument and hold pitch, so having the best one available is a must. Do remember that tuning machine with enclosed heads are better than the open-air types. Enclosed tuning machines are shielded from the elements and have slower wear and tear rate.

When choosing a bass guitar, do not worry much about the number of frets. The number of frets is always at your preference. Whether you pick a bass guitar that has 21, 22, or 24 frets, it does not really matter to say the least. Most notes of almost every song are played at the lower frets.

The material of your guitar is also a vital attribute when picking a bass guitar. The type of wood totally affects the tone and the weight of your instrument. If you will be playing on your feet, better pick a guitar that is made of lightweight wood, such as swamp ash. Alder is also a very good choice.

Before ending this guide, just remember to be very thorough with your options. The best thing you can possibly do is find a guitar that really produces the sound you want. Do not concern yourself much with the finish, as it can never affect the way you play.

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