Bass Guitar Reviews

Choosing your first (or next) bass

Precision or Jazz? P-style basses have one split-coil pickup and a punchy, focused sound that sits well in almost any mix. J-style basses have two single coils, a slimmer neck and a more varied, growly tone.

Active vs passive. Active basses use a battery-powered preamp with EQ for a modern, hi-fi sound; passive basses are simpler and have a classic character.

Scale length. Standard is 34". Short-scale basses (30–32") are easier for smaller hands.

Weight and balance matter more than on a guitar: a neck-heavy bass is tiring to play standing up.