Which Bass? I've narrowed it down to two.

Taylor007 · #1 09-09-2005, 08:24 AM

I'm buying a bass to record with and to hopefully play w/ a band when I get the chance. I used to play in high school - a had a borrowed '77 Music Man Sting Ray to play then. I always liked Fender Jazz basses because they seem easier to play.But I also like their short scale Mustang basses - very easy for a guitarist to play. So I'm looking at the Geddy Lee model and the re-issue Mustang Basses. They are both made in Japan. The Geddy is about $100 more and comes with a case - the Mustang does not.
I've played them both, like them both. What would you do?

Here they are - the Geddy

and the mustang

gdgross · #2 09-09-2005, 09:45 AM

I'd get the Geddy.

Buying a short-scale bass seems like wimping out to me. I say, learn how to play the instrument right without a crutch.

Besides, I really like Jazz Basses. When I get around to buying myself a bass, that'll be the one.

IMHO, of course.

aggie182 · #3 09-09-2005, 11:27 AM

the j-bass p-up configuration on the geddy will sound better imho. I like the j bass p-up set up a lot.

KyleT123 · #4 09-09-2005, 11:32 AM

you can't go wrong with the geddy. youd have to get a case for the mustang anyway.

I bet the geddy's a tone machine!

although I'm not a fan of playing fender basses

I like my warwick just fine!
but - i'd still say geddy all the way. no question.

Taylor007 · #5 09-09-2005, 12:01 PM

Hmmmm...its 3 geddy 0 mustang - interesting.

Joe F · #6 09-09-2005, 12:36 PM

My first vote would be for a G&L L-2000. Either the high dollar USA model or the budget minded Tribute import version, but since they are not a selection, another vote for the Geddy.

slewis · #7 09-09-2005, 02:02 PM

Can't you find a later model of those that doesn't have those massive 70s headstocks??? I'm a Jazz bass fan and owner and I have always liked 'em but those 70s headstocks!!..... eeewwwwwwwww......

franchelB · #8 09-09-2005, 02:10 PM

Though there's nothing wrong with a short-scale bass, personally, I feel that it's just too "small" for me. I'd go for the full size bass...
and I'd get a P-Bass.

eiko · #9 09-09-2005, 02:39 PM

One more vote for the jazz bass. I always say not to compromise when buying an instrument. I think you'll be happier with a "real" bass.

jonesbrass · #10 09-09-2005, 02:54 PM

Count me in on the jazz bass vote, too. I would also consider an Ibanez soundgear series if price is an important factor. If I remember right, some of the soundgear basses are in the same price range as the Geddy Lee, and you might like one of those better. Personally, I would go with the Geddy Lee, but try a bunch first. Good Luck!

4Gtrs · #11 09-09-2005, 05:58 PM

I have a faux Music Man...my vote for the J bass.

IXOYE · #12 09-09-2005, 07:36 PM

The Jazz is Sweet!

You might want to check out the American Series...try the S-1 switch to alternate the pickups between series and parallel..can get that P-Bass growl....

jackweasel · #13 09-11-2005, 05:33 AM

As long as you're shopping check out a Gretsch Junior Jet bass. I discovered it while looking for a Mustang or any fenderwith a short scale. It has a mini humbucker with tone and volume cotrols, a pick guard and that's it. Beautiful blackburst finish and the thing has tons of sustain. Waited till I got home to check e-bay and found one new, with a killer hard case, for what a squire bronco bass would have cost me at GC, without case. I'm still learning and mainly want it to help round out my recording, but I find that I'm having a ball fooling around with it. The short scale makes the transition from guitar to bass much easier for me.
Good luck with your bass, which ever one you choose.

napman · #14 09-11-2005, 12:10 PM

This is strickly IMHO
I was a bass player for many years and also many years ago (started around mid 60s and quit at late 70s)
So I'm sure I am bias 'cause in my time there weren't so many good basses around except Fender J and P.

I don't know about your physical size of your body and especially your hands, I'm only 5.7 and 130 lb., but I played Fender J from the start and I guessed I got used to it. Later on it got stolen and I got no choice but to get Fender P and also some other Js (some were used, one was brand new)

I had tried some others but nothing fit me like J and P, it could be the case of "creatures of habit".
I still own Fender J and Fender P just for the memories

.

utah · #15 09-11-2005, 09:31 PM

I've got a Mustang Bass that I've had for probably 20 years now.

I've used it to gig or jam. I've used it to record.

Not once, has anyone come up to me and said....

"hey dude, that bass doesn't you know....sound like a bass"

So, if you like playing short scale basses, purchase one. Don't worry about the sound issues of short-scale versus regular-scale. 90% of people won't hear a difference, including many bass players who think they will.

I'm not saying this to be confrontational. I'm just saying it because I've had many bass players/guitar players fall in love with my Mustang once they've had a bit of playing time on it.