Electric Bass

Electric Basses for Sale

The electric bass guitar is a core instrument in a wide range of contemporary musical styles, including rock, pop, funk, jazz fusion, reggae, R&B and metal. The bass, one might say, is the base — pairing with the drum set to anchor the rhythm, power the groove and ground the harmonic structure. Standard bass guitars are equipped with four strings tuned E-A-D-G, matching the lowest-tuned strings of a standard guitar but pitched one octave lower. However, it’s now very common to find basses with additional strings, including 5- and 6-string models.

History of the Electric Bass

Fender truly launched the electric-bass era in 1951 with the groundbreaking Precision model — a more portable, amplified alternative to the upright acoustic bass. Early on, the instrument was often relegated to a supporting role, simply anchoring the low end. But iconic players such as James Jamerson and Carol Kaye helped elevate the bass as a compositional tool, expanding its rhythmic and melodic possibilities. From the late 1960s onward, numerous virtuoso players made the instrument a showpiece unto itself, utilizing breathtaking solos (Jaco Pastorius) and percussive slapping techniques (Larry Graham).

Whether you’re a beginner mastering your first bass groove or an experienced player aiming to level up your tone, Music & Arts offers an array of electric bass guitars for sale.

How to Pick the Right Electric Bass

There are many factors to consider when shopping for an electric bass:

• String Configuration: The classic 4-string electric bass is the most widely used configuration, and many players are content to stick in that sweet spot. However, some more technical styles, including metal and jazz-fusion, benefit from the extended harmonic range of 5-string and 6-string models.
• Acoustic vs. Electric: While electric bass guitars are the most common and versatile models, suitable for virtually any contemporary genre, you can seek out acoustic and acoustic-electric bass guitars to achieve a warm, natural “unplugged” sound.
• Fretted vs. Fretless: Again, it all comes down to sound preference. Most pop and rock bassists favor fretted electric basses, which prioritize punch, intonation, tonal versatility and ease of play. However, fretless electric basses can offer a different form of inspiration: Built with ultra-smooth necks, fretless electric basses produce a uniquely warm, fluid tone that resembles the acoustic upright bass and is widely associated with jazz and fusion. Without the metal frets of their counterparts, they’re typically considered more challenging to play, demanding more technical precision to sound in tune.
• Body Shape: There are numerous body shapes to suit any aesthetic preference or comfort level. You may enjoy the classic Precision (P-Bass) style, with a chunkier neck, or the offset-waist body design and slim, fast neck of the versatile Jazz (J-Bass), both popularized by Fender. Some models have quirkier, more unique looks, like the distinctive body and headstock of a Rickenbacker.
• Body Material: Your bass tone is influenced by many factors, including the type of wood used for the body. Maple may cut through as brighter and clearer, while mahogany may hit your ear as warmer and deeper, with alder and ash sounding more balanced and articulate.
• Pickups & Electronics: Electric bass guitars can either use passive electronics (for warmer, more classic-sounding tones) or active electronics (for more power and tonal control).
• Experience & Skill Level: Your age, background and even physical size may impact the type of instrument you choose. For example, many beginners prefer lightweight basses with slim necks and simple controls. (Those with smaller hands may even like the lighter feel of a short-scale bass, which has a shorter distance between the nut and bridge.) On the other hand, more advanced players may prefer basses with higher-end materials and sophisticated electronics.

Electric Basses for Sale at Music & Arts

Explore our collection of electric bass guitars for sale from trusted brands like Fender, Ernie Ball Music Man, Ibanez, Yamaha and Squier. Shop online for fast, secure shipping, or visit one of our local Music & Arts stores to test out different models and receive direct guidance from our team. Our experts can help you find the right electric bass to suit your stylistic needs and unlock your playing potential.

Electric Bass Guitar Buying FAQs

Is the electric bass good for beginners?

Absolutely. Most bass lines focus on one note at a time, with many popular songs prioritizing the root notes of each chord. For that reason, many musicians find the bass much easier to play than its six-string sibling, especially in the earliest days of learning the instrument. The bass is an ideal platform for learning harmony, rhythm, song form and dynamics.

What’s the difference between an electric guitar and an electric bass?

There are many differences between the two. A standard electric guitar has six strings — two more than a four-string bass — and its four lowest strings are tuned one octave higher. An electric guitar, which uses lighter strings, is often used for leads, melodies and conventional chords, while basses most often play single-note lines that anchor the groove played by the band. (Of course, it all depends on the genre, the player and one’s imagination!) The bass is also heavier and longer, which can make it more challenging to play for musicians of smaller stature. Players concerned with the instrument’s physicality should look into short-scale bass guitars, which can be easier to manage for those just starting out.

Do I need an amp for my electric bass guitar?

Yes. For many practice and performance settings, a bass amplifier is essential. Practicing with a bass amp allows the player to hear their sound in full detail and make informed adjustments to their technique. In a live concert setting, some bassists will use a physical amp while others will send their signals directly into the PA system (or a combination of the two). The same versatility applies to recording. One option is to record your bass by recording your amplifier with a microphone. The alternative is to send your instrument’s tone directly into your computer’s digital audio workstation (DAW) via an audio interface, bypassing the need for a microphone or amplifier.

Consult our in-depth buyer’s guide to learn about various amp options. One important decision is whether to buy a combo amplifier, which includes both the amp “head” and the speaker(s) in one package, or purchase a head and speaker cabinet separately. Many beginners choose combo amps for the sake of ease and budget.

Can I use a guitar amp for my electric bass?

You can, but it’s not recommended. Bass amps are voiced specifically for low frequencies, with speakers built to reproduce those deep tones and handle the greater cone movement bass demands. They also tend to run at much higher wattage, since low frequencies require more power to stay clean and full at volume.

What accessories do I need to get started with an electric bass guitar?

It depends on your objectives. Most bassists start out with a strap, a case or gig bag, an instrument cable, a practice amp and some picks. From there, you can shape your sound further by upgrading your strings, creating a pedal board or buying a multi-effects processor. Cleaning products and microfiber polishing cloths are also highly recommended to keep your bass in optimal playing condition.

Does Music & Arts offer financing or payment plans for electric bass guitars?

Yes! Music & Arts offers flexible financing options, so you can start playing today and pay on a timeline that fits your life and budget. For more details, visit our Financing page.

Does Music & Arts offer electric bass lessons?

Yes! Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, Music & Arts has the perfect electric bass teacher ready to guide you. As the nation’s #1 lessons program with 250 locations, we make it easy to find bass lessons near you. Get started today on our Lessons page.