Are Expensive Basses Worth It?

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[@terrystunner]

So they may or may not be depending on your budget😅

[@sebg2086]

your limited with a precision.....and with a jazz compare to fodera.....but u can buy 6 bass for the price of a fodera.....so your not really limited lol

[@user-zn6gz4ub7w]

@@sebg2086 Sire basses are the finest sounding basses for the money you can buy. It's a no brainer.

[@cerrinhendricks241]

@@sebg2086 6? Go Aria, Fernandes or Bacchus and get a whole collection. Probably could get 20.

[@xJuliaGrimesx]

My bass teacher is a tried and true musician and he exclusively uses Squiers. He replaces the pickups and sands down the necks, and that’s it. Sound amazing when he plays them. Everytime I bring my Fender I feel stupid

[@jamesmarkham7489]

Play what makes you feel happy. A few of my students were too caught up on the price of their gear instead of playing better. It’s not a bad thing but it’s not the best area of focus to make yourself sound and play better.

[@CoolGuyAtlas]

Some people enjoy being able to take something cheap and make it play and sound good. Others like buying quality and being able to enjoy it and depend on it. At the end of the day 95% of us are hobbyists even if we do play gigs or make music.

[@MasterMeijer]

I've never understood sanding down the neck. Why would you destroy a perfectly good protective layer because you never took the time to get used to the feel

[@jamesmarkham7489]

@@MasterMeijer sometimes folks want it to be physically smaller and sometimes they don’t like the feeling of any finish. Idk about it. I’ve played all types of finishes and none of them bother me so I don’t understand the feeling to destroy the value for slight improvement

[@gto1607]

The Japanese are infatuated with vintage Fenders. Their basses are so good they are not for sale on this continent. Thats a fact.

[@JeffsBassment]

The great thing about cheap basses is you can learn to work on them and improve them slowly over time. I have an SX PJ that cost $150 and I've put another $300 or so replacing the pickups, tuning machines, bridge, even the pick guard screws. Spent some time sanding the neck to remove the tacky finish. It now plays and sounds fantastic and I gig it regularly. My most expensive bass (Fender MIA active Jazz), I bought when I totaled a car and got an insurance settlement. I bought a cheap car and and expensive bass

[@Vykk_Draygo]

Sounds like my wife. She could afford to buy a new car or a piano when she started college. She bought a Yamaha Baby Grand. 🤣 Piano lasts longer than a car, so it was a sound choice. It is a beautiful instrument.

[@JeffsBassment]

@@Vykk_Draygo sounds like she has her priorities straight!

[@bobbysafford9708]

Sound choice 😂😂​@@Vykk_Draygo

[@Tangent_Frank]

When i was in a garage band early in my teens i played a some $150-$250 Ibanez bass and it fuckin rocked. Though, eventually i went back to guitar because the person who owned the bass sold it. It really did teach me how cool and practical playing bass is, and i've taken those few years with me for playing bass and really appreciate it as guitar player. I get upset when i can't hear the bass on an album

[@chillimont]

Nice 'warm-up' to a Fodera ad! ;-)

[@NelsonMontana1234]

I had a Fodera and it was the most toneless dud I ever owned. And I tried three different sets of pickups. The whole premise is the snob appeal of it being "custom hand built" which is BS. It's just a small company that cannot sell as many basses as Fender so they charge more for each one. They're also dorky looking. Don't be fooled. They're nothing special at all. You can get an American Fender and about seven Squires for the same price, and everyone is sure to sound better than the Fodera.

[@SixteenVoice]

Haven't watched this all yet but expecting Sire to be part of the curve optimization discussion. Best bang for buck.

[@theprezenz]

Sire announced the F10 at Namm and from the looks, damn I'm impressed.

[@SixteenVoice]

@@theprezenz my rule is take a Sire, multiply the price by 3 and those are the basses that will compare feature and build quality 🙂

[@theprezenz]

@@SixteenVoice x7 when you live in Brazil 🤣

[@glowco.717]

I was super blown away when I played an M2 at guitar center, felt like $1000, had electronics like a $1500, costed $400. It’s now my main bass

[@MarcNeilson1]

I've never played one but ngl their Headstock always put me off despite them sounding great.

[@hillblocksview]

No mention of *Harley Benton* for a budget bass? If *Guitar Center* didn't have one _I would have never believed it_ for 199 bucks *GC* had a used five-string *Harley Benton* that was blowing away all the high-end bass guitars at *GC* (possibly due to poor QC?) or the fact that *GC* _doesn't know how to set up bass guitars in their stores_ but this used Harley Benton was done right, and the hardware and pickups were spot on and sounded amazing too.

[@AlexandarShmex]

It's not blowing away any high-end basses, but they are great for the money.

[@hillblocksview]

Every American Fender, Premium Ibanez and quality schecter that GC had in stock didn't play as nice. I have been playing Bass for over 30 years and worked as a guitar tech for over 10 years and I am certain the quality of the stock GC basses was poor in comparison to the Harley Benton. I don't want to believe it either, we can blame it on poor quality control for in-store set up's at Guitar Center I suppose... @@AlexandarShmex

[@markblackstad8705]

There are some Harley Bentons that I can't believe are sold at such low prices for that quality and sound?! Some of my favorite basses to play in my stable are Harley Bentons!

[@BrianCadwalader]

My issue with Harley Benton is that the shipping situation was a nightmare. I live in America. It was my first and only time ever ordering overseas. I ordered 2 basses because I thought it would be a better deal, cost wise. But they got held up in customs. I had to fill out some form (something about importing wood?) and pay for that AND I got charged daily for each day that it was held over (in Kentucky I think?) sooo… figuring out what was going on, figuring out who to call, then they needed to email me a form and then figuring out how to fill it out correctly and actually sign it (from my phone - digitally, it was my first time with that too) then for them to approve it AND they held it on a Saturday so it was stuck over the weekend… I got screwed. I’ve never heard anyone talk about any issues with customs. I commented on another KZbinr’s video (which was a positive review of a Harley Benton bass) and I asked about how to do the shipping part efficiently and safely, but no one ever responded. So anyway, if I lived in Germany, I’d probably have a closet full of Harley Bentons but in America, I’ll stick with Squier or Sterling for budget gear. 😂 I laugh now but at the time I was LIVID.

[@ImJustStandingHere]

Well, it blows away most of the crap that GC has, almost none of which I would call "high end" but also depends on the GC, some get up to $2k USA Musicmans and Fenders and others (like mine) max out at $700 Ibanez with muddy bartolinis and Mexican fender garbage

[@iangrant8290]

QC and fretwork is where I see most of the $500-$1500 instruments fall, particularly with MIM Fenders. They are to a point where the components are good enough but they just don't spend any time on fit and finish it seems. I would definitely try before I buy in that range just like the budget basses because they will be hit or miss. The good thing about the middle tier though, is that you're probably at worst just going to just need a good setup and a fret job.

[@flogginga_dead_horse4022]

I love the Sterling low end models because they have the jazz bass thin neck at the nut.

[@bassistdc]

I won't buy a bass with a nut wider than 1 1/2". I have small hands and I'm getting old (67) Ha! I still look and feel young though.

[@legendzy8894]

I watched Jim Lill's video on "Tested: Where Does The Tone Come From In An Electric Guitar?" which changed my entire perspective on bass/guitar gear. Based on the video, buying a cheap nice feeling bass/guitar and just change the pickups and get it setup by a professional.

[@gto1607]

But ppl dont want to put 500 into a 100$ bass.

[@legendzy8894]

New Seymour Duncans cost 160$ @@gto1607

[@biggoofybastard]

@@gto1607 Why not if it makes it play like a $1000 bass?

[@bassyey]

I got my Squier refretted with stainless steel by a reputable luthier in my country. Now it's way better then my US-made bass lol. And it's still cheaper. People will always say that US models are the best but they also just use cheap labor. The difference between the neck of refretted Squier and stock US is insane, not even funny.

[@kitko33]

@@gto1607 Who said anything about $100 bass?

[@floofthebassplayer]

Superb video AMP, like legitimately top shelf shit. I love seeing Denson on the channel as someone who doubles on electric and upright bass so it's always cool to see his perspective especially on these kinds of instruments!

[@ampthebassplayer]

Thank you so much! Denson and I always have a good time filming! He’ll be back again soon!

[@rogersgonc]

Den seems to be a great dude... nice vid! Regards from Brazil

[@peadookie]

You know, saying that your bass is totally gratuitous is appreciate - it’s true. But you did a good job of highlighting the fact that _you just like it_. The value of that bass is the same as the value you place on your money in that trade, and if it didn’t make you happier than having the money, you wouldn’t have spent it. I have 5 basses. On the low end is my Squire Classic Vibe and on the top end is my Modulus and MM Stingray. Do I need 5 basses? Nope. Do I need an expensive bass? Nope. But you know, I just _love_ my basses. That’s it. I love their sound, their looks, their playability, their history, their rarity…. I just like ‘em 🤷‍♂️

[@svtbass]

I LOVE Inexpensive basses. People Don’t have to spend a lot of money My first bass I bought new in 1972. A Fender Precision. I knew the dealer and I paid under $200 for it new... I have been blessed to work RnD for some of the most notorious bass manufacturers on the planet. Boutique makers and the generic run of the mill brands. Different body woods, Bridge materials fingerboard materials etc. Tone woods DO make a difference in the sound and feel of an instrument. CONFIRMED! Even though the Talkbass ( aka ALL Talk NO Bass ) will argue all day against that notion.. Most have never had the opportunity to try the huge variety of tone woods, bridges , pickups ect. That said I have owned a few Foderas, 5 or 6 NYC Sadowsky basses -aka parts bass, Valenti, Alleva Coppolo as well as Ibanez, Fender American, Fender Mexican, Kramer, Charvel, Peavey. Spector , Yamaha, Modulus, Zon etc etc. I have even made my own basses from PARTS made by parts vendors such as chandler, Might Mite, Warmoth, USA guitar. My one parts bass had a Total $ in parts in 1989 money was about $300. That $300 bass was used on session in NYC and the TV it was used on won nation Awards and Nominated for Grammys. All that said, One does NOT need to spend a lot of money on a bass for it to be sound worthy of super spectacular, trophy winning tones. Cheap bass can be just as great as the NYC Sadowsky parts bass if it's player ( you) are able to make it sound appropriate for the gig , session , wadding, club no matter how small the gig is or how big it is.

[@WayneGreen-b4y]

Your reply is one of the reasons why I worked with a luthier for 2 years. It allowed me to experiment with all the bass-related items you mentioned in your comment! Different tone woods, neck woods, pickups, parts, etc. What an eye-opener that job was. I even built a bass when I worked there...that was a fantastic learning experience!

[@NMbass906]

I own a Gould and I'm not a super great player! I'm a regular dude that works a regular warehouse job and I think it's 100% worth it to buy a high end bass. It took ages to save up for and while it might not be a huge one, I still count it as a genuine milestone. I set a goal, I worked towards it, and I achieved it!

[@ampthebassplayer]

Right on! Feels good to have something you worked for and really love, doesn’t it?

[@NMbass906]

@@ampthebassplayer I feel like it was a safer purchase than a $700 Sire honestly. There's always a market for high end, if I ever get tired of it or want to move it along for whatever reason, it's an excellent bargaining chip to use for trades. Funny enough, the higher the price tag, the safer it is to blindly buy.

[@daveweed2765]

​@@NMbass906 I don't know about all that. When I played guitar I wanted a Les Paul. Have 2Gibsons and 1 Epi SG. I wanted something that sounded a little beefier so went to guitar center. Went through quite a few of thier Les Paul's and started going through thier Epis with the look I wanted and pickups. A 700 dollar Epi blew the Gibsons away. So...I was willing to spent up to 6000 dollars. So high end guitars have a lot better resale value and there is no way I would ever buy any guitar or bass blind on line.

[@ianedmonds9191]

@@daveweed2765 Depends on the brand. PRS guitars are pretty consistently good. You can buy one of them over the internet and you know what it's gonna play like and sound like. Gibsons are a whole other thing. Luv and Peace.

[@NMbass906]

@@daveweed2765 You know your finances better than I do so lemme just say, all things being equal, if you get the opportunity to do so, take a chance! I'm 5/5 unpunished on high end basses now lol. Warwick, 2 Kiesels, a Gould, and even a lil MIJ Fender! I wheeled and dealed like CRAZY to get them and it's been like a ten year journey but they trade so quickly. Bought and sold em all sight unseen on Reverb and used sections (except the Kiesels, thanks for the inheritance Dad) and traded a few just as quickly! Guitars are a weird world cause you guitarists are worse than us bassists with that lol. Still though, I think you bought a Suhr, you'd have no trouble trading it for like a Nash or a Novo or any of those other high end guitars too. Not trying to say you're wrong and I'm right of course lol. You're 100% correct on a lot of those WMI made instruments kicking a TON of ass. Played any Sires? They're out of this world dude. If you took one back in time to 1995 they'd think it was more expensive than a Sadowsky!

[@capin_no]

i've been working as a tech for guitar center for a little less than a year and a half and i will say that basses in the $300-$500 range are honestly great if you put a little bit of extra money into them to get the kinks in the fretboard worked out. if you get your fretboard leveled or even just have the guitar itself set up, it makes a world of a difference

[@WayneGreen-b4y]

A "plek" job, costs about $200-250, but it's worth every penny.

[@johnsilver8059]

The difference between Gibson/Epiphone and Fender/Squier on one hand and Ernie Ball Music Man/Sterling by Music Man is that Epiphone and Squier are wholly owned subsidiaries of Gibson and Fender while Sterling by Music Man is a licensed product not owned by EBMM at all. Sure, you can call a SBMM a budget Stingray because EBMM licensed the name and design to Praxis Musical Instruments, but it’s not owned by EBMM. Calling SBMM the budget line of EBMM is incorrect.

[@norbicsek]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but the inconsistency issue you mention regarding the $250-500 range is somewhat manufacturer-dependent too, isn't it? Ibanez and Yamaha seem to be almost universally praised for their QC, and I haven't really seen/heard this "same model, different instrument" problem regarding their stuff, whereas Squier and Epiphone seem to be notorious for that.

[@seblo8462]

You can never go wrong a mid to pro level bass from a pawn shop for half off, never be turned off by basses that have "wear and tear" you just gotta find the right signs of wear, on the back of the body if see discoloration from "belly" rash or belt buckle scratches that means the previous owner/owners played it very often maybe was an active musician or a hired gun also cigarette burns on the headstock is a good sign they definitely were gigged and most of those basses will usually be properly set up or not far from being ready to go 👌

[@Joetime90]

Just like scratch and dent appliances. Some good deals to be had.

[@vincentevansbass]

£400 to £800 is the ideal price range in my option, anything more and your entering the realm of diminishing returns. Its better to spend more on a quality amp

[@cooljazzbass]

Samick = Korean Product

[@markfarrell580]

Great video as always I will say this in similar comparison, instruments are no different than cars or motorcycles when it comes to the cheap to the ludicrously expensive. The cheap vehicle will be as basic as basic comes but in real world turns it’s all anyone will ever need, the expensive however will have a lot of bells and whistles and the luxuries that you think you can’t live with out. Fundamentally they all serve the same purpose just like instruments they all do the same thing, some just “feel” better than others.

[@kitko33]

No. You need decent tuners, a decent pickup and a stable neck. Decent tuners are not expensive (not talking inflated retail prices) and a stable neck is a construction thing that can be achieved with off-the shelf dried wood properly put together in a muti-piece neck. Wood itself, whether on body or neck, makes zero difference and if you're going for sustain, luthite, a fully synthetic material, beats any wood anyway. All that is perfectly achievable within 500 euro price point in mass production basses. Say 700 if you want perfect high-end finish. Let's go to 1K for your bass to aesthetically pleasing eye popper. Anything over that is pure BS. Same goes for electric guitars.

[@albriano7762]

It’s like a ROLEX and a CASIO, they both tell time, it’s about Name and Prestige is all. I know a bass player that owns a Ken Smith and he sucks, it’s the musicians skill not the price of the instrument.

[@LeoDowney-z7m]

I've never ever played a squire base that was as good as As a Fender or squire stratecaster that sound as good as Good As A Fender. Though I don't believe you should have to spend $1000 on an American to have a decentfender type bass or guitar. . I tried one of those classic vibe Precision base and I thought there WA straight garbage and it sucks cause they look Great but they don't feel in play so great especially the white with the black guard I really wanted that 12 work out I wanted that bass to work out so bad.

[@MrPalmersong]

I enjoyed this video. Dr. D. spoke about his journey, choices and opportunities, respect to that, no need for negative comments from anyone. Ultimately, we can take something from this video. Own, play, choose, something that inspires you, motivates you, and brings you satisfaction. Cost is your business, taste is your business, brands are your business. Let’s not go with ‘better than’ or ‘worth it, not worth it’ , instead, choose and big up what works for you, and respect other people’s choices and views respectfully. Peace folks, play with inspiration and share what inspires you whenever you can, someone may be blessed by it.

[@ampthebassplayer]

Well said.

[@DavidRamos-nz4bh]

The biggest mistake I’ve ever made was playing an $11,000 Fodera. It was a 6 string and every thing about it was superior to anything I’ve ever played. I’m sure F bass etc are nice as well but it blew my mind. I was able to play things I simply couldn’t play on my Fenders. Amazing basses.

[@cd0u50c9]

Biggest gratitude I have is finding a used 1980s Warwick after 2 years of searching, for less than $1000 at the time, 15 years ago. I spent years changing it and modding it, until it truly became mine. As a comparison, I had a chance to try an Alembic Series 1 in London a few years ago, and it had nothing on my Warwick. Growing with an instrument has more value than a very high price tag in my humble opinion.

[@_Only_Zuul]

$500 - $1000.. don't tell me you can't find an awesome 2nd hand bass in that price range.. I've scored a 5 string Zon bass, multiple vintage Aria basses, MIJ Fender P n J, 90's Ibanez SDGR, Status Graphite etc.. These are some bass in my collection and nothing over 1k.. except for the 4k Billy Gould signature Zon bass purchased new, that was my dream bass, I got it, I'm an average ok bass player not flashy.

[@pgmorrow]

Whenever this question comes up I think of orchestral musicians and the prices they pay for their instruments. They pay a lot more just for the bare minimum of the quality they need. Electric instrument players at all levels have got it good.

[@dr_bassius]

Yep. My bass BOW is $7k+ 😅 I won’t say how much my upright is 😬

[@ewetoo]

This is a proper bass player's video, bravo. Perfect accompaniment to my GAS 😄

[@TeepleBass]

Great video! I particularly enjoyed the mini-documentary with Dr Fodera. :)

[@ampthebassplayer]

lol I didn’t set out to make a 40 minute video with so much on Foderas but there was just so much to talk about!

[@ChristosBassCovers]

Nice... Why says you need a 4 string to slap. You disproved that theory. :)

[@The_Cadaver]

I'd much rather own any of those basses than a Ferrari. LOL

[@kaydgaming]

Dude’s talking about Federa wearing a fedora… 😂

[@Flexflexible]

Started on a Ibanez Gio GSR180 for 220€. The bass was decent for the price tag. I think one of the most important lessons that I've learned is that always take a new cheap bass to a luthier for a professionel setup. I played for like half a year before a friend of mine gave me that tip and it changed my playing a lot. Setup on cheap basses are often crap and even if they are showcased in shops, the setup might not be perfect.

[@meatcanyonbrazil9194]

WOOD DOES NOT CHANGE TONE !!

[@Surfer8652]

Imo expensive basses can be worth it, but that's not always the case. It's not a linear relationship between price and quality/tone/playability. Having a bigger budget buys you more options, there's more variation and customization in the high end bass market vs. the import factory builds, and sometimes you might find the ideal combination of neck shape, fingerboard radius, string spacing, finish etc. Is only made by a custom builder somewhere that has higher manufacturing costs. Or you might find one of the budget builds is perfect for you, and you're not missing out not owning something super expensive. For me, I own several USA Laklands each costing a few grand, but that's only because I've played every other bass and Laklands just jive with me like nothing else does. I love them more than the Foderas and Sadowskys I've played. If Lakland didn't exist, I probably would play something a lot cheaper like a mid level Yamaha because the other expensive basses didn't fit me as well and wouldn't be worth it. So my advice is go travel to a high end music store and get your hands on as many different basses as possible to find what works for you and try not to judge a bass either positively or negatively based on cost.

[@pangeaproxima3681]

Carlitos del Puerto...former Chick's bassist.

[@oholm09]

Anthony Jackson play fodera model

[@larryeckerdt9750]

After working as a bass player for 20 years, my bass developed a noise that even the manufacturer couldn’t solve. Fenders and Music Man were close to $2000. I found a used Alembic for the same price, beautiful instrument! And when I had a problem, even though I was not the original owner (and was fully prepared to pay whatever the fee was), the builder fixed the problem, no charge, because “you shouldn’t have that problem with our basses”. That’s the value of a custom bass.

[@paulschmitz9175]

I've played Alembic basses since 1985. They're the best in my opinion.

[@mr_bassman6685]

How the heck did you find an Alembic for $2000? 😮

[@paulschmitz9175]

@@mr_bassman6685 I bought my first Alembic brand new for $1,000.00 in 1985. Still have it.

[@larryeckerdt9750]

@@mr_bassman6685 it’s a Rogue 5 string, nice bass, but not a Series ll. A collector (hoarder) was moving and not everything could go with him, it was on eBay, and I was the only one interested right then, so score!

[@larryeckerdt9750]

And this was 20+ years ago!

[@LordEradicus]

I briefly had an Alembic bass back in the day that was worth a decent used car back then. When my playing went from gigs to being more of a hobby, I downgraded quickly to several basses from Glarry and Rogue ranging from $100 to $120. I don't know if I've been just lucky, but I haven't had any problems with those basses and I kind of wish I had bought them from the start. The Alembic had an unbeatable sound, but for the kind of music I play, the cheap basses work fine.

[@grafhilgenhurst9717]

But the Alembic had a cool factor! Back in the day all the pros switched to them. Then a few years later, they went back to their Fenders and Music Mans.

[@czipendejs]

I agree about Thunderbirds, looks rock'n'roll but diving a hell. Impossible to play almost.

[@NuncNuncNuncNunc]

Big problem with cheap basses and cheap instruments in general is that they are 1) generally relegated to novice market 2) generally either harder to play or sound worse than just slightly more expensive instruments. This combo is a good way to discourage beginners. Made in China is a thing.

[@GrantFunkyFrabe]

I just purchased a 30th anniversary Brubaker KXB. Any bass I play just isn't as satisfactory anymore. I love my Sires that I've owned, including my 6 string. I've played Sire since I was 15, now I'm 24. But no matter how many times I go get it setup, it still doesn't feel like the Brubaker. Yes I worked very hard for it, and it'll be my only high end bass for a while. But it was worth it to me. And yes I gig every gig with a one of a kind custom, but they were made to be played. I totally agree on the statements about more expensive instruments inspiring you. You don't necessarily need them, but I had a connection to that brubaker. Unlike any other bass I've ever played. I used to say "nah expensive basses aren't worth it." But now I see they ARE worth it.

[@TheClosetGuitarist]

I spent $450 on a classic vibe squire. Sounds great for my bedroom rig.

[@maciejbzura9057]

Great video, i love cheap basses and also i love, and really recommend basses that are unpopular on the internet. I have an epiphone eb3 bass, i heard only bad things about it, but i honestly love it, play it with my doom metal band with a shit load of fuzz and huge amp, and it honestly crushes

[@MgBrCH3]

best bass youtube channel on the site keep uploading we need you bro

[@ampthebassplayer]

🥹🥹🥹

[@Oldscoolify]

I think what really makes "expensive basses worth it" is if that specific instrument doesn't limit your ability to get what you want musically. And this usually changes over time as you improve as a player.

[@cd0u50c9]

Modding a standard bass can do something very similar for a fraction of the cost, you just need to push the instrument you've got!

[@room34]

I had to hit "like" as soon as you got to the "Sterling Sterling" rant. 😆

[@ampthebassplayer]

I’m frankly more upset than I should be.

[@bobthomas8342]

As a MM Sterling owner, I can sympathize. I'm dreading the flood of hate messages about trying to get $2,000 for a $500 bass should I ever try to sell it.

[@erickaufmancustomguitars1351]

Imagine a day at work where you just walk around looking for scrap pieces of wood to glue together to make a bass. Just imagine the inefficiency. Seriously?

[@TwoBadBassist]

Great video! Have you ever tried a Mayones bass out of Poland? I have 3 and I love them! They have the quality of Fodera without the NYC overhead!

[@willemniehorster9836]

6 children? Ever thought about overpopulation of planet Earth?

[@dr_bassius]

LOL

[@AstromarineCorpse]

I own 2 basses, and the second is frankly too expensive for someone with as little playing ability as me (a bit over 3k). I go back and forth on whether it was a mistake, but i have an engineer salary, i like looking at it, and it sounds good despite being an absolute plonker weight and balance wise 😂😂

[@Minnevan]

just curious, what model of bass is it?

[@AstromarineCorpse]

@@Minnevan It's from a local (to Switzerland) luthier called Zola

[@trying2bhuman474]

The purple one is fire.

[@6lillium]

My Alembic is my "midlife Harley purchase". Purchased used for $1999 ( original 1990 price was around 4k.... around 9k today), it cost the same as my Stingray. The biggest difference is fit and finish. If I was regularly playing gigs, I'd buy a Squire or Sterling by MM , and switch out the pick-ups. Better than having a high end instrument damaged on a small stage, or worse yet...stolen. Biggest consideration? The MAJORITY of your audience does not know the difference. Set up a cheap bass correctly , maybe file some rough frets, replace the pickups, and your good to go at a fraction of the cost.

[@cd0u50c9]

THIS.

[@gssong7111]

@34:45 for the real bass

[@SlimTheWolf]

I bought a Squier 40th anniversary P-bass on sale for $290. I put a pair of DiMarzio pickups on it ($100) and a BadA$$ II bridge ($80) and it sounds killer. Got it for a backup bass for gigs and I tell you what - it rocks. I have a couple other basses, including a Music Man Stingray and a Spector Ethos, but gee whiz if you're on a budget - Squiers can be really impressive.

[@giffinpoopoo]

I started playing bass in early 2020 at age 10 I started off with a 75 dollar glarry from eBay(I used that for about 1 year)now I have a Ibanez gsr200 and am looking to upgrade to a 5 string bass in the $300 to $500 price range and I primarily play metal,do you guys know of any recommendations, if so thank you so much, btw I love your videos amp you’re the best bass KZbinr out there

[@huths0lo]

The SR305 is in your future. I just sold my SR305EDX. It was an incredible bass. I traded up to an SR1306. I really think Ibanez is one of the best all around instrument manufacturers out there.

[@Personalinfo404]

Diminishing returns after 1.2k USD either new or used. At least that what I feel. My used -05 Warwick corvette I bought for $1299 and my Fender Aerodyne Jazz brand new was $1099.

[@blousug]

Beautiful basses! But as made mention, these are just the King’s jewels and in no way made him a better bass player. And absolutely no one on this planet that doesn’t have a high level of musical experience could differentiate the sound of a $3000 bass from a $30000 bass. I personally would take that 66 Jazz bass over any Fodera 😂😂

[@peekaboo4390]

The Yamaha BB's are fantastic. My collection counts 42 basses at the moment and 12 are Yamaha's from 1974 up to the 2000's.

[@Last_one_before_I_go]

Damn - 42 in the herd. Award !

[@WayneGreen-b4y]

Why 42? Can you play them all at the same time? Is that number good for your ego? Good grief.

[@peekaboo4390]

@@WayneGreen-b4y I play them all but some never leave the house as they are too valuable and are collectors instruments. Make no mistake, there are many bass players with much more in their collection than mine. It has zero to do with ego but your comment points towards the need to work on yours.

[@mr_bassman6685]

@@WayneGreen-b4y What's the matter, people can't have instrument collections without an ego?

[@TheTactical6string]

I bought a USA Charvel single hum with a Kahler right off the shop wall in 1985 for $999. I had no business owning that but it was what made me play more, honestly the Kahler used to eat hi E strings and being an idiot I had no idea that it was probably a bur in the saddle and the stupid locking nut behind the regular nut probably was worse for me then the Roadstar II I was playing before that. I financed the Charvel, 24 months, my first loan threw beneficial credit, i look at it as a life lesson :-)

[@gregartman9827]

My 40th anniversary squire jazzbass has survived so much and still plays really great. I returned a very expensive fender p-bass because I couldn't justify spending 2g's more on a slightly better bass.

[@lauriebluesguy]

It's down to the individual and how the Bass works with you not for you. MY favourite Bass is an Overwater, ater years of hankering for a Fender Jazz Bass, I ended up owning 2 and then selling them both. After a lot of bad backs I bought and modded a Steinberger Spirit and I prefer that for live playing. It's up to the individual it really is.

[@AustinSteingrube]

For every month after this video’s release, add $100 to the base price for all of these guitars… Fender and Gibson are going bonkers adding $$$ to the price of almost everything in their catalogue.

[@creampuffbandit]

Just spent 2800 earlier this month on a new StingRay Special 5HH myself. Totally worth it!

[@ampthebassplayer]

Nice! Stingrays are so sick.

[@danielbasetone1467]

Some very Ugly Basses IMHO Expensive but ugly,I do not like painted basses especially purple fades! and the ugly inlay on the seven? I understand to each his own, but I'm more of a traditionalist I prefer my old Fender's and my G&L's. Thanks for the post "Bass On"! As Long as your playing Bass, "Just Play"

[@samlelowitch]

Sterling by Music Man is not actually owned by Ernie Ball Music Man but rather by a separate company called Praxis that makes the basses under license.

[@WayneGreen-b4y]

I bought my Musicman Sterling (4 knob, 3-way pickup switch) used for $300...STILL have it, and love it!

[@tanx0r]

Of course, a skilled bassist will make any instrument sound great. But as I played my basses over the past 30 years I have gradually kept 'trading up' and now own a couple of 2nd hand market gems like my 2007 Fodera NYC Empire, a 1994 Zon Sonus and some other rather special instruments. I have always wondered if it is worth, if I haven't been "spoiling myself" with it since the tone of a mid market segment Mexican Fender Jazz "does the job" these days and is by no means a bad choice... But then somewhere last year I was out in a local pub at the jam session and had brought down my (woodwork done in Japan, construction and setup done in Brooklyn NY) Fodera. I was doing some slap stuff, lots of fingerstyle playing and even some picking when this other bassist walks up to me and goes "Hey what kinda bass is that? because your tone is REALLY awesome!". So there you have it. The quality does get noticed by those who recognize good bass tone. Playing comfort on it is really great and the active electronics on them are really out there quality wise. Where many active basses sorta lose part of their character the Fodera really doesn't. I am still very glad with my purchase. I spent around 2800 euro on this bass which isn't too bad is it? There are ways of obtaining quality instruments like this without spending tens of thousands and imo, it really has been worth it so far. Like many things this is a journey and the journey itself is as important as the end goal. Change is the spice of life so do whatever it takes to keep yourself inspired to keep playing and progressing. Cheers, Tanx.

[@mrgskye]

The thing I’ve taken away from this. Some Fodera’s are nice but having a nice amp is what makes the difference 😉 as that Sammick actually sounded decent 😂👌🏻 more of the £/$/€500-1500 basses are more than enough.

[@randallhaney7909]

"Are Expensive Basses Worth It?" Simple answer.. Uh. No. More detailed answer, No F#(k!n' Way !. Lone answer .. If you have the money? And Expensive Basses is what blows your skirt up? Have at it; Get yourself happy. it's nothing to me. But don't expect me or most players to be impressed. Just Say'n.

[@bigoldnoob]

I couldn't care less about "hand carved". CNC machines carve better than humans, sorry. Also, the bass still has that genericness of pickups too close together (SUCKS BIG TIME, the Nasalwick Thumb made a lot of damage to good taste). Sounds real GENERIC, as in NO PERSONALITY OF THEIR OWN. Happens to almost all boutique stuff, can sound "a lot of different ways" (not nearly as good), while not providing some valuable thing of their own really. I could afford boutique, but for me it'd have to be just WAL, or die, all else SOUNDS GENERIC (and even then I don't have use for a Wal nor anything, my peak touring/recording days are way behind). You could hear Foderas, Ritters, Jerzy Drozds and what not blindfolded and you wouldn't know which is which, as none came up with a sound of their own. I'm not as foolish as to adhere 100% to the "Leo got it right 1st. time" (in fact he would have, if he had used reverse-P arrangement instead of regular P), but if someone else came up with a DISTINCTIVE tone of their own it's defintely not boutique builders. You're not paying for a holy grial tone, just for fancy furniture, except for WAL. I care for the tone. I couldn't care less how nice the furniture or accomplished the carpenter, sorry. The fact that the first thing this guy did with the bass is try to make it sound like a Precision (which it didn't) speaks for itself. A Fodera will never have that. Not even the Monarch P (and don't get me started about that "showoff" video with the guy that can't play with a pick to save his life). About the "earn it" thing, well, there's MANY clumsy rookies who can afford Foderas too, so, nope. Can you afford it/not have to steal it or steal to afford it? Cool, you've earned it.

[@MarceloBenavent]

ibanez GWB1 (gary willis bass) like the one shown... you won't want to touch another one

[@klaymeister]

Dude if i could send you my 2 Glarrys I would. The GP Pro model has a great neck (slim) and i modded them within an inch of their life.

[@M_EvoBass]

Sure do, I've heard them as I follow Clays channel! I've got a cheap Glarry pb the original version. Cost £79. Bought some flatwounds for £18 and some Tonerider pups £35. It already had 250k pots so didn't change them. Total cost £132 Sounds absolutely great. I done measurements on the neck, no baseball bat here, same as a fender pb. Mebbe I was lucky. The build is pretty solid and the tuners are great. Hardly ever have to tune it. One important point- I dont gig, so wear and tear isn't an issue. Cool channel BTW so I'll definitely subscribe 😎

[@Pladderkasse]

My current "big budget" bass is my 93 Warwick thumb, A bass that I got for an absolute steal of a price, considering it's from an era where Warwick didn't compromise on anything, like they did later with the awful post 2000 tuning machines. That bass is probably as good or superior to master built Warwicks coming out of Germany today at a staggering +6000 USD. So the question is, is it better than my cheaper Sires, Squires and Ibanez basses? Not one bit. It just delivers a type of vibe they don't. But as far as playability and sound, they are just as good.

[@rhoodj]

I can't afford this Fodera Emperor II Elite 6. However I own a custom made China copy with EMG preamp and Sire MM pick ups, bridge, 18v battery box 2nd gen. And The output jack on the outside corner, not on the body. With a kill switch to avoid unplugging it all the time. Cost around $1200.😅😅

[@bassyey]

Thumbnail shows a bass over $10,000. I'd say those have diminishing returns and will just as long as $3000 basses. $1,700-$2,500 is perfect. $3000 if you're feeling fancy and want a certain design. I won't fault anyone for looking for a specific design and color. Get the instrument that will make you pick it up everyday so you'll get good faster.

[@shanebaker3404]

When you look at your guitar and see that it's a huge budget bass you are quite underwhelmed. I have a Schecter Stiletto Extreme 5 and love it. I guess it's a mid bass. What's the difference in a begginer, mid, and pro bass?

[@ChefRojo]

Probably not, let's face it. Find the size and weight of bass you're most comfortable with, find the look you like, buy the cheapest bass that has those characteristics and do any upgrades you need (pegs, bridge, electrics). OR, build your own like I did. I did a bass building course with Jon Shuker. The resulting bass is the best I've ever played and it cost around £2000, but it's my perfect, custom bass and I MADE IT! Nothing else comes close.

[@franktreppiedi2208]

I go for the mid priced basses. Lakland 55-02, Spector NS2A and Euros, Fender MIMs. I can afford to buy a few instead of only 1. They sound great, just as good as USA instruments. Do I need quarter sawn necks? Not really. Maybe some people do. I play bars so will I buy a $5 or 6k bass? Na. If I went on a tour or played better places or have techs to take care of them? Maybe. But for now, I like my basses. Some I've modded. It's also the carpenter, not the tools. If youre comfortable w a what ya got, then go w it.

[@SierraPapa73]

Thank you very much for this video! As a new bassist, you've answered several questions that have been on mind. Price points, hardware, what you get and the whole tone wood thing... As someone coming to bass from drums, you've helped me not to feel like an uncouth knuckle-dragger. Much appreciated!!

[@rockoutmichigan]

I wouldn't take him THAT seriously... He gets money from guitar companies to sell them. He's a glorified salesperson, bro.

[@SierraPapa73]

@@rockoutmichigan - aren’t most channels these days?!? (At least the ones I watch) Basically he confirmed for me where the price breaks are… and more importantly to me, what the added money buys. Lots of other videos I’ve seen will also mention the price points, but not what they get you. The woods was another one. As a drummer you can spend tons of money on shell materials, but at the end of the day, it really doesn’t make enough difference to matter. Anyway, I appreciated the video. Thanks!

[@SilenceYourWeapon]

In other words... do whatever you want with your $$$... It's all about priorities and only you can determine what those are. Want to spend +10k on a bass or a guitar? Go for it! Like someone else mentioned the comments, people buy 15k watches that give you the time just as well (or poorly) as a 10 dollar watch (or your phone). I personally don't think I could ever spend more than 2-3k on a guitar even if I have the money to do so. Most of my instruments are under 1k and I'm perfectly happy with them... but then again, I'm not a professional musician and I don't make a living out of playing my instruments. Also... capitalism is a hell of a drug ;)

[@mjmason75]

Nobody in their right mind would pay $100,000 for a bass they would actually play. lol. I also totally agree regarding the Stingray Sterlings. Who's idea was that at Musicman. Definitely a dumb idea that makes things confusing with their products!

[@matthewduncan9405]

$2500-$3500 you are getting an amazing amazing professional instrument. Anything over $5k is just complete luxury item and the quality of sound is so minor you couldn’t A/B it and tell isolated and absolutely no way you could tell in a mix. Before I get “that’s a fortune! My so and so bass is just fine”. Your right it is just fine but my bass is better 😂

[@KBJ58]

I have cheap and cheerful basses, just to keep around for noodling, but I also have Yamaha BB, Ibanez Musician, US Fenders and (my pride and joy) a Fodera Monarch. I am not a spectacular player, but I just love playing them. If you can afford one, why not?

[@Last_one_before_I_go]

My Squire Affinity P Bass is lighter and otherwise @ 90-95% of my Fender J Bass. Agreed, these are legit players. No joke.

[@THIRSTYGUMS]

Americans literally flabbergasted , struggling to understand how people in other countries can possibly be as good as America at making things with wood 😅😅😅. Do they sit you down at 5 years old and tell you you are the GREATEST people in the world? And why? Lol. Anyway nice video 👍

[@RealEstateChris56]

If you're serious about playing bass, save $1700 and buy a used Nash bass. They are Fender Custom Shop level basses at a fraction of the cost (especially used). The neck feel alone is worth the price of admission. They use Jason Lollar pickups and top shelf hardware and the build quality is second to none. They basically make the Fender basses Fender should be making.

[@Redphantom-dt7vo]

I have an Ibanez SR305E i bought for a little less than $500 I did a custom set up myself and it sounds great, one thing that blows me away is This Thing keeps its tuning so so well I take it from my Basement studio to a friends house whose room is upstairs and even after playing for an hour or so I check the tuning and 90% of the time its still PERFECTLY in tune It blows me away.

[@nengrana]

I am depressed with my recent acquisition. Its a Jackson JS3Q and I was pretty excited to unbox it. Ive only ever had a hand me down so I was looking forward to being able to play something that cost more than what I have and there is so much fret buzz. its everywhere. Im taking it to a GC, since it was ordered direct, to see if it falls under warranty or what. Do you feel instruments should come playable out of the box and not require you to spend extra for a set up? sads =(

[@jimdabomb]

Fuck Fedora/Fodera, whateverthefuck.. I'm still waiting for a bass from Krappy Guitars

[@tomaszwaldowski8577]

What about vintage basses? Fenders, Gibsons, Ricks? 20 minutes about Fodera. What’s the point?

[@gadymarcus2362]

Bello.🍾🍾🍾🍾🍾🍾

[@LeoDowney-z7m]

Most cheap bass guitars are straight garbage I somehow ended up with this old CMI brand generic P bass no Pick guard. . Which makes it kind of unique for AP base tapped in so it's all black and Chrome looking. But also the back of the neck and the Head stock are painted black But the paint is really well done but the Tuners are garbage. If I ever saw another CMI base like a jazz or something or a any kind of different styles than I already have or anything different enoughi'd buy it in a second even though it's nothing brand I've never even really seen before. I have a buddy with A no name generic Jazz base both of our bases are passive as well I've got to mention my basis obviously passive and they both sound great in fact the P base pick up on this CMI that I own it's really awesome it's supposed to take your pic or your fingers and you start playing right Over the pick up you get a Really great grind Like You get from Higher quality pick up. I really wanna stick a jazz bass pick up and or a homebucker on this thing as Well because usually A P pickup is just not good enough for me but this one is really strong

[@Joetime90]

I bought a Fender Performer Bass for 1300 in 2019, sold it for cheap, now they're almost 3k. This video makes me want to get another one...

[@crocholiday]

The Sterling by Music Man and Music Man Sterling is annoying... unless the GC you're at mistook a US Sterling for a Sterling by MM and sold a US Sterling to you for $900 including a case. I was a good customer but not that good lol. Didn't realize it until later when I looked at getting another one.

[@Soulfide]

I always buy used instruments. Still expensive...but i dont pay sticker price. I actually just bought an amazing bass this person custom ordered but didnt want anymore. 😂

[@barisbungybass3577]

I don't like Fodera. It could be easy playing bass. Taht's all. And I heard only 2 persons sounded with Fodera are R. Bona and Carlitos Del Puerto. I played before my friend's Fodera. No no no.

[@telecasterbear]

High end basses can be beautiful. My playing style is very simple. Fingers, four string, single passive pickup, 34" scale w/ labella flats. No slapin or poppin. Im happy with my 73 telecaster bass. My thoughts sometimes do go to a Nik Huber Rietbergen bass.