Looking into getting new bass

[Obsidiann]

It's that time, and after sitting on a cheap Ibanez Gio for 1.5-2 years, I think I need to upgrade. I'll admit, I was honestly against the idea of a Fender bass because they're so damn popular, but after trying a Jazz bass, I really dig it. They feel and sound great, but my only problem is that they don't have those high frets (22-24) that I like to use. I've been keeping my eye on the upcoming Ibanez SR600E that's coming out this year, and it looks amazing.

My problem is that I really can't try many basses out, as the local music shop here pretty much only has Fender gear and the occasional used basses of various brands, so I'm really forced to shop online. I really want to buy a solid bass, so I'm curious what you all might recommend. I play psych/blues rock but want to start a post/indie rock band, so something that has presence in the low end but an airy presence in the high end would be amazing. Budget is $700-1400

 

[chemical360]

It's that time, and after sitting on a cheap Ibanez Gio for 1.5-2 years, I think I need to upgrade. I'll admit, I was honestly against the idea of a Fender bass because they're so damn popular, but after trying a Jazz bass, I really dig it. They feel and sound great, but my only problem is that they don't have those high frets (22-24) that I like to use. I've been keeping my eye on the upcoming Ibanez SR600E that's coming out this year, and it looks amazing.

My problem is that I really can't try many basses out, as the local music shop here pretty much only has Fender gear and the occasional used basses of various brands, so I'm really forced to shop online. I really want to buy a solid bass, so I'm curious what you all might recommend. I play psych/blues rock but want to start a post/indie rock band, so something that has presence in the low end but an airy presence in the high end would be amazing. Budget is $700-1400

I would look into an Ibanez BTB... There are several models in here that are within your price range. Personally I just bought a BTB1935 and I feel like a broken record because I am mentioning it again. It is quite literally one of the best instruments I have played in a long time. I am an old school Modulus player and didn't have the budget for a Modulus again, so I picked this up on a whim. I am so impressed with it I keep recommending it.

The Aguilar DCB's are terrific sounding. I had Barts in my old Modulus that I loved too and the cheaper BTB's come with Bart pickups. I put a set of half rounds on it immediately and am having such a great time playing it, i hardly ever want to put it down.

 

[Obsidiann]

I would look into an Ibanez BTB... There are several models in here that are within your price range. Personally I just bought a BTB1935 and I feel like a broken record because I am mentioning it again. It is quite literally one of the best instruments I have played in a long time. I am an old school Modulus player and didn't have the budget for a Modulus again, so I picked this up on a whim. I am so impressed with it I keep recommending it.

The Aguilar DCB's are terrific sounding. I had Barts in my old Modulus that I loved too and the cheaper BTB's come with Bart pickups. I put a set of half rounds on it immediately and am having such a great time playing it, i hardly ever want to put it down.

They do look really nice, but I think I'm going to stick to a 4 string. Definitely will keep in mind for a 5+ string though!

 

[Bassclef46]

for that budget you really have quite alot of options. for as much as Fender has oversaturated the market they are tried and true. I mean you cant go wrong with a P or J bass. Sadly your budget is a tad low for the American Original line, which is an amazing value. i have the 70s J and 50s P and they are excellent basses. You can get the P for 1650 and buy direct to save paying tax.

But if thats out, look at G&L for a J or P bass. I own each and they are great. you will be at the high end of your budget for the USA made. But if you want an L2000 tribute your around 750 and they are extremely versatile and well made. Cant miss

Ibanez is another cant miss. They are excellent quality. Beware the ibanez (except the tmb's) neck is super thin and you may not like it. I didnt and thats why i returned mine.

Check out the Yamaha BB series. Again, excellent quality there. PJ config. BB734 is what i would get. but i hear the $500 BB434 is a huge value and well made

browse around reverb and see what interests you and report back so we offer opinions. Good luck!