If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience while playing the bass, investing in a high-end bass guitar is essential. However, with so many options in the market, making the right decision can be overwhelming. Before committing to a purchase, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, determine the player's skill level and genre of music they play. Some bass guitars are designed for specific music genres, while others are versatile and can adapt to different playing styles. Secondly, consider the wood type used in making the bass guitar. The wood significantly impacts the sound quality and durability of the instrument. Lastly, decide on the brand that you trust. High-end bass guitars require quite the investment, and going for a brand reputable for quality and durability could save you quite a lot in future repairs.
Do you want to take your bass playing skills to the next level? Have you been on the hunt for a high-end bass guitar, but don't know where to start? This article will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed purchase. Learn about the critical factors to consider before investing in a high-end bass guitar and the benefits that come with owning one. Are you curious about the difference between a high-end bass guitar and a regular one? Keep reading to find out!
10 Best High End Bass Guitars
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
Ideal for beginners or intermediate level bassists looking for a versatile and affordable instrument for playing various genres.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for beginner and intermediate bassists looking for an affordable and versatile instrument with a sleek black finish.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
Ideal for musicians seeking a vintage bass sound with modern playability and a unique, eye-catching color.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for beginners looking for a full-size, right-handed electric bass guitar package with accessories and starter kit included.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, natural-sounding bass guitar that delivers exceptional playability and versatility.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
Ideal for professional musicians and bassists who need a high-quality 5-string electric bass with a sleek, stylish design.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for musicians seeking an affordable, high-quality bass guitar with a sleek design and clear sound.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
Ideal for professional or aspiring bass guitarists seeking quality sound and playability at an affordable price.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal for beginners and experienced bass players who want a high-quality, affordable instrument with crisp sound and comfortable playability.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality and stylish bass guitar at an affordable price.
|
|
1. Ibanez Tmb 4 String Bass Guitar, Right, Black (Tmb30bk)
The Ibanez GSRM20B is a bass guitar that boasts a 30” short scale for fast and easy playing, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike. Its wide and chunky Maple neck provides a comfortable grip that allows for maximum playability, while its classic Ibanez body style gives it a sleek and stylish look.
Equipped with dynamic P & J pickups, the GSRM20B delivers a versatile range of tones that can handle any genre of music. Whether you're playing rock, funk, or jazz, this bass guitar has got you covered.
To further enhance its tonal capabilities, the Ibanez custom 2-band EQ offers a variety of tonal options that allow you to fine-tune your sound to perfection. With this feature, you can easily adjust the bass and treble frequencies to create the perfect balance for your playing style.
2. Ibanez Tmb 4 String Bass Guitar, Right, Black (Tmb30mgr)
The Ibanez GSRM20 Mikro Bass Guitar is a top-of-the-line choice for those in search of a high-quality instrument that delivers impressive sound and comfortable playability. With its 30” short scale, this bass guitar is perfect for players who prefer fast and easy playing without sacrificing sound quality.
The GSRM20 Mikro Bass Guitar boasts a wide, chunky maple neck that provides players with a comfortable grip that is easy on the hands, making it ideal for extended playing sessions. The classic Ibanez body style is both stylish and functional, offering players an ergonomic design that is easy to handle and maneuver.
Equipped with dynamic P & J pickups, the GSRM20 Mikro Bass Guitar delivers rich, full-bodied sound that is sure to impress. The Ibanez custom 2-band EQ offers a variety of tonal options, allowing players to fine-tune their sound to fit their unique playing style and musical preferences.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced bass player, the Ibanez GSRM20 Mikro Bass Guitar is a top choice for anyone in search of a high-quality, reliable instrument. With its impressive features and outstanding sound quality, this bass guitar is sure to become a beloved addition to any musician's collection.
3. Fender Vintera 50s Precision Bass, Sea Foam Green, Maple Fingerboard
The Single ‘50s P Bass Split-Coil Pickup is a top-quality product that is perfect for both novice and professional bass players. It comes equipped with a ‘50s P Bass C-Shaped Maple Neck that is designed to provide superior comfort and an exceptional playing experience. The 7.25”-radius fingerboard is fitted with 20 vintage-style frets, making it easy to play and ideal for producing rich, resonant tones.
The body of the P Bass Split-Coil Pickup is made of alder, which is renowned for its light weight and excellent tonal qualities. The 4-saddle bridge features threaded saddles that enable the user to adjust the string height and intonation to their desired specifications. This ensures that the bass produces the perfect sound, no matter what style of music you are playing.
The package also includes a deluxe gig bag, which is ideal for musicians who need to travel with their instruments. The bag is made of high-quality materials and is designed to provide maximum protection for your instrument, ensuring that it remains in excellent condition for years to come.
4. Electric Bass Guitar Set – Glarry Jazz
The GLARRY Gjazz bass guitar is the perfect gift for anyone who loves modern music. Whether playing in a band or alone, this bass guitar offers a superior sound quality that will impress even the most discerning listeners.
Equipped with a single-single-coil design, the two pickups control both the neck and bridge, resulting in a sound that is both clear and powerful. The fretboard and body material is made of high-quality rosewood and basswood, ensuring a warm and rock-like sound that will last for years to come.
In addition to its superior sound quality, the GLARRY Gjazz bass guitar is also designed for portability. It comes with a durable and easy-to-carry portable bass bag, allowing you to take it with you wherever you go.
When you purchase this bass guitar, you will receive a complete set of accessories including a shoulder strap, bass pick, and amp cord. This means you can start playing your new instrument right away, without having to purchase any additional equipment.
5. Ibanez 5 String Bass Guitar, Right, Natural Gray Burst (Gsr205smngt)
The product being reviewed boasts a fast and slim Maple neck that facilitates easy playability and control, allowing for a smooth and effortless playing experience. Its compact and light-weight body ensures that the instrument can be played for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort, making it an ideal choice for on-stage performances and recording sessions alike.
The dynamic P & J pickups on this product ensure that the instrument produces a clear and well-articulated sound, with a rich tonal range that can be easily customized to suit the player's individual style and preferences. The active Phat II EQ feature adds an additional low-end power that is perfect for bass-heavy music genres, such as funk, blues, and rock.
Whether you are a professional musician or just starting out, this product is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality bass guitar. Its parameters and specifications make it perfect for a wide range of music genres, from mellow ballads to heavy metal. With its sleek design, versatile sound, and exceptional playability, this product is sure to impress even the most discerning musicians.
6. Ibanez Btb Premium 5-String Electric Bass With Bag (Black Ice Low Gloss)
Introducing the Ibanez BTB Premium 5-String Electric Bass, a finely-crafted instrument designed to elevate your musical journey. Constructed with select tone woods and meticulous craftsmanship, this bass guitar is a true work of art.
Equipped with Aguilar DCB pickups, the Ibanez BTB Premium 5-String Electric Bass delivers exceptional tone and character. The dual-ceramic bar design ensures that every nuance of your playing is captured, allowing for a truly expressive performance.
One of the standout features of this bass guitar is the Premium Fret Edge Treatment. This innovative technology offers an incredibly smooth and comfortable playing experience, allowing you to effortlessly glide up and down the fretboard.
The MR5S bridge is another impressive aspect of this bass guitar. With adjustable saddles that can accommodate variable string spacing by +/- 1.5mm, the MR5S bridge ensures that every bassist's specific needs are met. This level of customization allows for a truly personalized playing experience.
The Panga Panga fretboard is yet another facet of the Ibanez BTB Premium 5-String Electric Bass that sets it apart from the competition. With a beautiful wood grain that produces a tight low and mid-range, along with a sharp attack on the high end, the Panga Panga fretboard delivers a truly exceptional sound.
7. Yamaha 4 String Bass Guitar, Right Handed, Translucent Black, (Trbx174ew Tbl)
The TRBX170EW from Yamaha is a bass guitar that boasts an exotic mango top, adding a touch of unique style to its sleek design. This top not only looks great but also enhances the instrument's sound quality. The mango wood has a warm and resonant tone that gives the bass a rich and full-bodied sound, making it perfect for a wide range of musical genres.
The bass guitar is designed for high playability, with a comfortable neck that feels great in the hands. It is also lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods without experiencing any fatigue. The vintage-style bridge adds to the overall aesthetic of the instrument while also providing excellent sustain and stability.
Yamaha is a trusted brand in the music industry, and the TRBX170EW lives up to the company's reputation for quality and reliability. Its construction is solid and durable, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The bass guitar also features a range of parameters and specifications, including a 34-inch scale length, 24 frets, and a passive electronics system that delivers a clear and punchy sound.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the TRBX170EW is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality bass guitar. Its exotic mango top, vintage-style bridge, and trusted Yamaha quality make it a standout instrument that is sure to impress.
8. Sterling By Music Man 5 String Bass Guitar, Right, Olive (Ray5hh-Olv-M1)
The StingRay5 HH in Olive finish with White pickguard is an exceptional bass guitar designed for professional musicians and beginners alike. Its sleek and stylish appearance is sure to catch the eye of any music enthusiast.
The basswood body of the StingRay5 HH is crafted to perfection, ensuring a lightweight and comfortable feel while playing. The maple neck and fretboard provide a smooth and easy-to-play surface, making it a breeze to navigate through complex chord progressions and scales.
Equipped with 2 Sterling by Music Man designed Ceramic pickups and 2-band Active preamp, this bass guitar delivers a crystal-clear and powerful sound that will leave audiences in awe. The volume, treble, and bass controls allow for easy customization and adjustment, ensuring that the player can achieve their desired sound with ease.
One of the standout features of this instrument is its final set-up and inspection in California. All Sterling by Music Man instruments go through rigorous testing and quality control to ensure that they meet the highest standards of playability and sound quality.
9. Ibanez 4 String Bass Guitar, Right, Weathered Black (Gsrm20bwk)
Introducing a top-notch electric bass guitar that will elevate your music game to new heights! This 28.6" scale bass guitar boasts a sturdy bolt-on neck that provides excellent stability and support. The body of the guitar is crafted from high-quality mahogany, which is known for its durability and rich sound.
The fingerboard is made from premium rosewood, which offers a smooth playing surface and comfortable grip. You'll love the feel of the frets under your fingertips as you explore the full range of the instrument. The guitar also features two incredible pickups – a Dynamix P neck pickup and a Dynamix J bridge pickup. These pickups are renowned for their clear and powerful sound, and they deliver exceptional tone that will take your music to the next level.
The B10 bridge is another standout feature of this bass guitar. It's built to provide excellent resonance and sustain, ensuring that your notes ring out with clarity and precision. Whether you're playing fast-paced rock or soulful blues, this guitar is designed to keep up with your every move.
10. Ibanez Standard Sr300e Bass Guitar – Charred Champagne Burst
The Ibanez SR300E 4-string bass is a top-of-the-line instrument designed for experienced players. Its sleek and modern design has been embraced by bassists for over 25 years, and continues to excite with its smooth, fast neck, lightweight body, and perfectly matched electronics.
Crafted from high-quality Maple with rosewood, the neck joint features a 5-bolt design and measures at a scale length of 34 inches. The SR300E also features a truss rod to ensure a precise and comfortable playing experience. The finish of the bass is immaculate, with an elegant and stylish look that is sure to impress.
The pickups on the SR300E are passive PowerSpan dual coil, configured in an SS layout for a versatile and dynamic sound. The bridge and neck pickups are wired in parallel, and the bass features Ibanez custom electronics with a 3-band EQ for fine-tuning your tone. The SR300E also comes equipped with a fretboard mat for added comfort during extended playing sessions.
One of the standout features of the SR300E is its lightweight Mahogany body, which is not only comfortable to play but also delivers a rich and resonant tone. This bass is perfect for players who demand high-quality sound and reliability, as well as those who appreciate a sleek and modern design.
Best High End Bass Guitars FAQs
What are some of the best high-end bass guitars for jazz music?
When it comes to playing jazz music on a bass guitar, having a high-quality instrument is essential. Here are some of the best high-end bass guitars for jazz music:
1. Fender American Elite Jazz Bass: This bass guitar is a favorite among jazz musicians for its versatile sound and comfortable playability. It features a solid alder body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard, and comes equipped with Fender's Noiseless pickups.
2. Lakland Skyline 55-02 Deluxe: This bass guitar is known for its rich, warm tone and excellent playability. It features a swamp ash body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard, and comes equipped with Bartolini pickups.
3. Sadowsky Metroline MV4: This bass guitar is a popular choice among professional jazz bassists for its classic sound and sleek design. It features an alder body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard, and comes equipped with Sadowsky's own single-coil pickups.
4. Music Man StingRay Special: This bass guitar is known for its bright, punchy sound and excellent build quality. It features a ash body, roasted maple neck, and ebony fingerboard, and comes equipped with Music Man's own humbucking pickup.
Overall, these high-end bass guitars are excellent choices for jazz musicians looking for a top-quality instrument that can deliver great tone and playability.
What are some of the best high-end bass guitars for metal music?
When it comes to playing metal music, the bass guitar is one of the most essential instruments. It's important to select a high-end bass guitar that can handle the aggressive and heavy sound associated with metal music. Here are some of the best high-end bass guitars for metal music:
1. Warwick Thumb NT: This bass guitar has a strong and powerful sound that is perfect for metal music. It features a neck-through design, which provides excellent stability and sustain.
2. Fender American Elite Jazz Bass: This bass guitar has a versatile sound that can handle a wide range of genres, including metal. It features noiseless pickups, which help to eliminate unwanted hum and interference.
3. Ibanez SR5005E Prestige: This bass guitar is renowned for its fast and comfortable playability. It features a five-piece neck, which provides excellent stability and durability.
4. Music Man StingRay: This bass guitar is known for its bright and punchy sound, which is ideal for metal music. It features a massive humbucking pickup, which provides plenty of power and clarity.
5. ESP E-II Stream: This bass guitar has a sleek and modern design that is perfect for metal music. It features active pickups, which provide a high output and a wide range of tonal options.
Overall, these high-end bass guitars are all excellent choices for metal music. They offer a combination of power, clarity, and versatility that is ideal for this genre.
What are some of the best high-end bass guitars for recording?
When it comes to high-end bass guitars for recording, there are several options to choose from. Some of the best high-end bass guitars for recording are:
1. Fender Precision Bass: This is a classic bass guitar that has been used in countless recordings over the years. It has a warm, punchy tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres.
2. Music Man StingRay: This bass guitar has a bright, clear tone that is ideal for recording. It also has a comfortable neck and great sustain.
3. Rickenbacker 4003: This bass guitar is known for its distinctive tone, which is bright and punchy. It also has a unique look that will stand out in any recording studio.
4. Lakland 55-02: This bass guitar has a versatile tone that is perfect for recording. It has a comfortable neck and great playability.
5. Warwick Thumb Bass: This bass guitar has a deep, rich tone that is ideal for recording. It also has a beautiful finish and excellent build quality.
Ultimately, the best high-end bass guitar for recording will depend on your personal preferences and the style of music you are recording. It's important to try out several different bass guitars before making a final decision.
What are some of the best high-end bass guitars for rock music?
When it comes to high-end bass guitars for rock music, there are a few options that stand out from the rest. One of the most popular choices is the Fender Precision Bass. This bass guitar has been a staple in rock music for decades, known for its thick and punchy sound that cuts through the mix.
Another excellent option is the Music Man StingRay bass. This bass is known for its clarity and definition, making it a great choice for rock musicians who want their bass lines to stand out in a mix.
For those who are looking for a more modern take on the classic bass sound, the Sadowsky Modern 5 string bass is a great choice. This bass offers a crisp and clear sound with plenty of low-end punch, making it perfect for rock music.
Finally, the Rickenbacker 4003 bass is another great high-end option for rock musicians. This bass is known for its bright and punchy sound, making it a great choice for players who want to cut through a mix with ease. Overall, these are just a few of the best high-end bass guitars for rock music, and each has its own unique sound and style to offer.
What are the advantages of investing in a high-end bass guitar?
Investing in a high-end bass guitar can offer numerous advantages to musicians. Firstly, high-end instruments are typically constructed with better quality materials and craftsmanship, resulting in superior sound and playability. This means that a musician can achieve a more nuanced and refined sound, while also enjoying greater ease of playing.
Additionally, high-end bass guitars often come equipped with advanced features such as active electronics, which allow for greater tone control and customization. This can be particularly useful for musicians who play a variety of styles or who require a specific sound for recording purposes.
Moreover, high-end bass guitars tend to retain their value over time, making them a worthwhile investment for serious musicians. They are also more durable and reliable, meaning that they are less likely to require repairs or replacement in the long run.
Overall, investing in a high-end bass guitar can offer numerous benefits to musicians, including superior sound, playability, customization options, and long-term value.
What are the best high-end bass guitars for live performance?
When it comes to high-end bass guitars for live performance, there are a few options that stand out above the rest. One great option is the Fender American Elite Precision Bass, which offers a sleek design and powerful, versatile sound. Another top choice is the Warwick Thumb BO 5-string bass, which is known for its exceptional tone and impressive sustain. The Music Man StingRay Bass is also a popular choice among professional bassists, thanks to its classic design and excellent playability.
For those who prefer a more unique and customizable option, the Alembic Series II bass guitar is a top-tier choice. This bass is handcrafted and can be customized to the player's exact specifications, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind instrument. Finally, the Sadowsky Metroline MV5 is a fantastic high-end bass guitar that offers a smooth, comfortable playability and a range of tonal options.
Ultimately, the best high-end bass guitar for live performance will depend on the individual player's preferences and needs. However, any of these top-tier options are sure to impress and deliver exceptional sound quality in a live setting.
What are the differences between high-end and mid-range bass guitars?
High-end and mid-range bass guitars differ in several aspects, including construction materials, hardware, electronics, and overall quality. High-end bass guitars are often made from premium tonewoods, such as mahogany, maple, and ash, which offer superior resonance, sustain, and tonal complexity. They also feature high-quality hardware components, such as bridge, tuners, and pickups, which are designed to enhance the sound and playability of the instrument. Additionally, high-end bass guitars usually have more advanced electronics, such as active EQ systems and multiple pickups, which allow for a wider range of tonal options.
On the other hand, mid-range bass guitars are typically made from lower-grade tonewoods and feature less advanced hardware and electronics. While they can still produce a decent sound and are suitable for beginners or intermediate players, mid-range bass guitars may lack the depth, clarity, and sustain of high-end models. They may also be less reliable or prone to wear and tear over time.
Overall, the main differences between high-end and mid-range bass guitars are the quality and craftsmanship of the materials and components used, which ultimately affect the sound, feel, and durability of the instrument.
What are the key features to look for in a high-end bass guitar?
When it comes to high-end bass guitars, there are a few features that you should consider to ensure that you are getting the best quality instrument for your money. First of all, the construction of the bass guitar is crucial. High-end bass guitars are typically made from high-quality woods, such as mahogany or maple, which provide a rich and full sound. The hardware is also important, including the tuners, bridge, and pickups. Look for high-quality components made from durable materials like brass or steel.
Another key feature to consider is the playability of the bass guitar. A good high-end bass guitar should have a comfortable neck and smooth frets, allowing for easy movement up and down the fretboard. The weight of the guitar is also important, as a heavy instrument can cause discomfort during long playing sessions.
Finally, consider the brand and reputation of the manufacturer. High-end bass guitars are a significant investment, so it's important to choose a reputable brand with a history of producing quality instruments. Look for reviews and recommendations from other musicians to ensure that you are making a wise investment.
What are the top high-end bass guitar brands?
When it comes to high-end bass guitar brands, there are a few that stand out from the rest. These brands are known for their exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and sound. One of the most highly regarded brands is Fodera, which has been producing high-end basses for over 35 years and is favored by many top bassists in the industry. Another top brand is Sadowsky, known for their sleek designs and versatile sound. Warwick is also a popular choice among bassists, offering a wide range of models with unique features such as their signature curved body shape. Other notable high-end bass guitar brands include Alembic, Ken Smith, and Roscoe. Each of these brands offers a unique sound and style, so it's important to try out different models to find the one that best fits your playing style and preferences. Ultimately, investing in a high-end bass guitar from a top brand can greatly enhance your playing experience and overall sound.
What makes a bass guitar a "high-end" instrument?
A bass guitar is considered high-end when it possesses a combination of exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and advanced features that enhance its tone and playability. High-end bass guitars are typically made from the finest woods, such as mahogany, ash, or maple, which contribute to their durability, resonance, and overall sound quality. They often feature high-quality pickups, hardware, and electronics that allow for a wider range of tonal options and greater control over the sound. Additionally, high-end bass guitars may have custom finishes, unique designs, or special features that make them stand out from other models. These instruments are typically handcrafted by skilled artisans in limited quantities, which adds to their exclusivity and value. Ultimately, what makes a bass guitar high-end is a combination of exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and advanced features that create a superior playing experience for the musician.