Best Electric Bass Guitar For Beginners Of 2023 (With Buying Guide)

1. Best Overall: Yamaha BB234 BB-Series Bass Guitar

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The Yamaha BB234 BB-Series Bass Guitar in Yellow Natural Stain is an introductory model from Yamaha's renowned BB Series. It features a solid alder body with a powder-coated finish, which not only looks great but also ensures durability. The instrument has a vintage style bridge and lightweight open gear tuners that provide stable and accurate tuning.

The BB234 YNS is equipped with custom V3 pickups made of ceramic, which deliver a powerful and clear sound. With four strings made of alloy steel, this bass guitar produces a rich and dynamic tone that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles. It is an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediate players who are looking for a high-quality bass guitar at an affordable price.

2. Best Material: Ibanez GSRM 4 String Bass Guitar

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The Ibanez GSRM 4 String Bass Guitar is a right-handed instrument with a sleek black finish. It has a lightweight design, weighing only 6.8 pounds, making it easy to play and transport. The neck is a GSRM 4 28.6" neck and the body is made of mahogany, which provides a warm and rich tone.

The fingerboard is made of rosewood and features medium frets, providing a comfortable and smooth playing experience. The guitar has four strings made of nickel, which are known for their bright and clear sound. The polished finish adds a stylish touch to the overall look of the instrument. This bass guitar is suitable for players of all levels, from beginners to professionals.

3. Best Design: Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3Q 4-String Electric Guitar 

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The Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3Q is a 4-string electric guitar designed for right-handed players. It features a quilt maple top and poplar body with a vibrant Amber Blue Burst finish and black nickel hardware. The 34-inch scale length and new offset body shape provide comfortable playing for extended periods, reducing neck dives. The bass guitar is equipped with dual passive Jackson medium-output humbucking pickups that deliver a monstrous low-end growl suitable for various genres, including funk, hard rock, and gospel.

The HiMass bridge enhances stability, improves sustain, and provides a bolder tone. Additionally, the active three-band EQ controls low, mid, and high frequencies for personalized tone. The volume control has a push/pull selector that bypasses or engages the active circuit for the three-band EQ.

4. Best Vintage: Squier by Fender Classic Vibe 60's Jazz Bass

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The Squier by Fender Classic Vibe 60's Jazz Bass is a full-size guitar designed by Fender with a 3-Color Sunburst finish. This guitar is inspired by 1960s-era Jazz Bass models and is 100% designed by Fender. It features Fender-designed alnico pickups, which provide a vintage-style tone. The neck has a vintage-tinted gloss finish, which adds to the retro feel of the guitar. The hardware is nickel-plated, and the body is made of poplar wood. The guitar weighs 5 kilograms and is designed for right-handed players. This guitar is perfect for musicians who want a classic bass guitar sound and a vintage look.

5. Best Choice: Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4 Bass Guitar

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The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4 Bass Guitar in Black is a four-string bass guitar that features an iconic StingRay design with a black finish and black pickguard. The body is made of basswood, while the neck and fretboard are made of maple. The guitar is equipped with a Sterling by Music Man designed ceramic pickup and a 2-band active preamp with volume, treble, and bass controls.

This bass guitar is suitable for various playing styles, including rock, blues, jazz, and funk. It is lightweight, weighing only 9 pounds, making it easy to carry and play for extended periods. The basswood body and maple neck and fretboard provide a comfortable feel and reliable durability.

The guitar's finish is a powder coating that provides a protective layer, ensuring that the instrument retains its new look for longer. Sterling by Music Man instruments undergo a final set-up and inspection in the USA, ensuring that the bass guitar meets high-quality standards before it gets shipped out to customers.

When buying an electric bass guitar for beginners, consider the following factors: 

• Budget: When it comes to buying an electric bass guitar, your budget is a significant factor. There are many affordable options available on the market, so you don't necessarily have to break the bank to get a good quality instrument. However, it's important to consider that a higher budget may allow you to invest in better quality materials and features.
• Style: Electric bass guitars come in various styles, such as the traditional Precision Bass or the more modern Jazz Bass. It's important to choose a style that fits your preferred sound and playing style.
• Size and weight: The size and weight of an electric bass guitar can impact your comfort level while playing. Make sure to choose a size and weight that feels comfortable for you to hold and play.
• Brand and reputation: Researching different brands and reading reviews can be helpful in finding a reliable and trustworthy electric bass guitar.
• Features: Consider the features that are important to you, such as the number of strings, pickups, and control knobs. A simpler instrument may be more suitable for beginners, while a more advanced player may prefer an instrument with more features.

1. How many strings should a beginner bass guitar have?

A beginner bass guitar should have four strings. While five and six-string basses are available, they can be more challenging for beginners.

2. What kind of pickups should a beginner bass guitar have?

A beginner bass guitar should have passive pickups, which are more straightforward and easy to use than active pickups.

3. Do I need an amplifier to play an electric bass guitar?

Yes, you'll need an amplifier to play an electric bass guitar. It's important to consider the type and size of the amplifier you need based on the size of the room you'll be playing in and the sound you're trying to achieve.

Choosing the best electric bass guitar for beginners requires considering various factors such as budget, style, size and weight, brand, and features. It's essential to choose an instrument that feels comfortable to play and fits your playing style and sound preferences. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to find the right electric bass guitar for your needs and begin your journey as a bassist.

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