6 Beginner Basses to Kick Off Your Collection

Buying a bass is no small feat, with a mind-boggling amount of options out there for beginning players.

How much you want to spend, what you want it to look like and what type of music you want to play can all factor into your decision. Maybe you've always been inspired by Mike Dirnt, which puts a Precision Bass atop your wish list.

So, what's the best way to zero in on the right starter bass for you?

Here is a handy list of six basses that are good fits for those embarking on their low-end journey.

Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass

Featuring a maple neck with a "C"-shaped profile, the Affinity Series Jazz Bass is comfortable to play, while dual single-coil Jazz Bass pickups deliver classic tone and performance with famous guttural midrange and singing high end. A great instrument and a great value.

Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar Bass Special SS

The Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar Bass Special SS's distinctive shape sets it apart from the rest, and the 30-inch scale length is great for smaller players or those looking for a more portable option. What's more, it contains a fat P Bass pickup in the middle position and a bright Jazz Bass bridge pickup for more versatility.

Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass Fretless

In the spirit of fretless masters like Pino Palladino and Tony Franklin, tthis fretless Jazz Bass fuses the round, slippery sound of an upright and the sleek style of an electric bass. The ebonol fingerboard offers a fast, smooth-playing surface, and the inlaid fret lines make sure you'll never lose your bearings while gliding up and down the fingerboard.

Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ

It's the best of both worlds with a punchy, growling Jazz Bass bridge pickup in the bridge position and a pummeling split single-coil P Bass pickup in the middle position.

Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass '77

The Vintage Modified Jazz Bass ’77 returns you to the age of disco funk and the dawn of punk with a sleekly offset body, crisp dual Fender-designed pickups and a super-fast “C”-shaped maple neck. Comfortable and sonically versatile, this bass offers super ’77 sound and feel for today’s bassists.

Squier Vintage Modified Precision Bass PJ

Another model featuring the PJ pickup combination, the Vintage Modified Precision Bass PJ is both powerful and smooth. The contemporary "C"-shaped neck profile and smooth back finish are also ideal for those who play with the thumb on the back or side of the neck.