There are many different types of bass guitars on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the different types of bass guitars available and help you decide which one is perfect for your needs.
We’ll cover everything from acoustic bass guitars to electric bass guitars, so you can make an informed decision before making your purchase.
Related: 19 Different Types Of Guitars With Pictures
What is a bass guitar?
A bass guitar is a type of stringed instrument that usually has four strings and is used to provide the low-pitched melody or harmony in music.
Bass guitars use thicker strings than traditional acoustic and electric guitars, which gives them their lower pitch range and distinct sound.
The bass guitar is an essential part of many genres of music, such as pop, rock, blues, jazz, and country.
It is often used to provide the foundation of a song’s rhythm section by adding low-end notes and chords that help create a complete musical arrangement.
A bass guitar can also be used to improvise solos or lay down riffs in addition to its usual role in providing rhythmic accompaniment.
Anatomy of a bass guitar.
The bass guitar is the backbone of any musical ensemble. It provides a low-end foundation for other instruments and allows them to stand out. To better understand how it functions, let’s take a look at some of its main components:
Neck
The neck of the bass guitar consists of a long maple or mahogany wood piece with metal frets. It is the part of the guitar that you hold when playing, and it’s connected to either an acoustic or electric body.
Nut: The nut is the raised part of the neck that keeps the strings in place.
Frets: Frets are metal pieces that divide the neck into different notes.
Fretboard: The fretboard is a flat piece of wood on top of the neck, which also contains metal frets and markers.
Fret markers: The fret markers are small dots on the fretboard that indicate where notes should be played.
Body
The body of a bass guitar is typically made from wood or metal. It houses the pickups, electronics and controls for tone shaping as well as providing an anchor point for the neck and strings.
Bridge & String saddles: The bridge holds the strings in place and is adjustable to change the height of the strings. The string saddles allow you to adjust the intonation of your bass.
Pickups: The pickups on the bass guitar amplify sound from the strings and send it to an amplifier or PA system. There are two main types of pickups: single-coil and humbucker.
Volume and Tone knobs: The volume and tone knobs allow you to adjust the level of sound produced by the pickups.
Pickguard: The pickguard is a thin piece of plastic that covers the body and helps protect it from damage.
Output jack: The output jack is the point where an instrument cable can be plugged into, in order to send out signal from the pickups.
Strap buttons: The strap buttons are located on the body of the bass, and allow you to attach a guitar strap in order to play standing up.
Headstock
The headstock is located at the top of the neck and houses the tuning pegs. The tuning pegs are used to adjust the tension on each string in order to keep your bass in tune.
Tuning pegs – The tuning pegs are located at the top of the neck, at either side of the nut. They are used to tune each string by tightening or loosening them until they reach the desired pitch.
String tree: The string tree is a small metal piece that helps keep the strings in place and also reduces friction when tuning.
Types of Bass Guitars.
Bass guitars come in many shapes and sizes. Depending on what kind of music you are playing, there is a specific type of bass guitar that will suit your needs. Here are some of the most common types of bass guitars:
1) 5-string Bass Guitars.
A 5-string bass guitar gives you the ability to play a wider range of notes and chords without having to change instruments.
The fifth string is usually tuned one octave lower than the fourth string, giving the player access to deeper notes and greater tonal variety. This makes it useful for playing different styles of music such as funk, jazz, and metal.
The additional string also allows for more complex playing techniques such as tapping and fingerstyle, as well as walking bass lines. The additional strings can be used to create interesting harmonic textures or accents in the music.
Because of this flexibility, 5-string bass guitars have become increasingly popular among professional and amateur players alike.
2) 12-string Bass Guitars.
12-string bass guitars are an interesting approach to the classic four-string design. With 12 strings instead of four, they offer a much wider range of tones and resonance that can be explored.
The neck is typically divided into two sections – six strings on each side – with tuning of the strings in unison across both sides.
This gives the instrument a unique tone that can range from bright and jangly to deep and mellow. The 12-string bass also has an extended range of notes, which makes it popular for alternative tunings and open string improvisation.
The wider neck of the 12-string bass also gives it more flexibility when playing solo parts or chords.
It is able to produce a much fuller sound than the traditional four-string bass, making it an important part of many jazz or progressive rock bands.
It can also provide a rich background texture to any style of music, helping to create unique and interesting sounds.
The 12-string bass also has some unique challenges as well. The instrument can be difficult to play, as the extra strings create a tension that can be hard to manage.
Additionally, it takes some practice and skill to develop the technique of playing with all 12 strings. Nonetheless, it is possible to learn how to master the instrument and use it creatively in many musical styles.
3) Acoustic Bass Guitars.
Acoustic bass guitar commonly known as the ABG, is a type of bass guitar that produces sound through its hollow body. Unlike their electric counterparts, acoustic bass guitars rely on the vibrations of their strings and body to create sound. They are often used in genres such as jazz, blues, country and folk music.
The ABG has a unique set of features that make it stand out from regular bass guitars. First, the body is much larger than that of a standard electric or acoustic guitar and has a deep tonal range due to its large hollow design.
Additionally, acoustic bass guitars typically have four strings rather than six, which allows them to produce lower tones. As such, ABGs are often used for soft, melodic accompaniment.
The ABG has a few drawbacks as well. First, their large bodies can make them difficult to transport and store. Additionally, the tone produced by an acoustic bass guitar is often too quiet for live performances, so it must be amplified in order to be heard over other instruments.
Finally, because of their unique design, ABGs require more maintenance and upkeep than other types of bass guitars.
4) Acoustic-electric Bass Guitar.
The acoustic-electric bass guitar is a hybrid instrument that combines the features and capabilities of an electric bass with the sonic power and portability of an acoustic guitar. It allows players to utilize both acoustic as well as electric sounds from a single instrument.
The sound of an acoustic-electric bass can be easily amplified using pickups or microphones and controlled using an on-board preamp, allowing for versatility and control in a variety of musical settings.
This makes it an ideal instrument for gigging musicians or studio recording artists alike. Acoustic-electric bass guitars come in a range of shapes and sizes from full size to travel friendly short-scale instruments.
They also come with various pickups, electronics and hardware options, allowing players to find the right fit for their sound.
Whether an acoustic-electric bass guitar is used in a live performance or in the studio, it’s sure to provide a unique sonic experience with plenty of tone and volume control.
With its combination of dynamic electric and acoustic tones, this type of bass guitar can be used for a variety of musical genres and playing styles, from rock to jazz, country to funk.
Whatever your style, an acoustic-electric bass guitar is sure to give you a powerful sound that stands out in any mix.
5) Electric Bass Guitars.
Electric bass guitars are the backbone of many popular music genres, such as rock, pop and jazz. They provide the low-end frequency range that gives these styles of music their unique sound.
Electric bass guitars typically have four strings tuned to a specific frequency, and often feature frets for easier playing.
Many players also choose to add effects such as distortion or chorus to their sound. Electric bass guitars come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, allowing players to find the perfect model for their preferences and playing style.
Different body types are also available, with models ranging from traditional solid-body designs to hollow-body or semi-hollow styles. There is even an expanding market for five and six string basses, as well as electric upright basses.
No matter what type of electric bass guitar you choose, it is sure to provide the powerful sound that makes these instruments so essential in modern music. With the right instrument, you can be sure to make your mark on any genre of music.
In addition to sound, electric bass guitars also offer a great deal of versatility. Different pickup configurations, including single-coil, humbucker and active pickups, can be used to achieve a variety of different tones.
This allows players to experiment with different sounds, from vintage growling basslines to modern buzzy tones.
With the right tone shaping tools, such as an equalizer and an effects pedal, it’s possible to create almost any sound imaginable.
Electric bass guitars also offer the flexibility to play in a variety of genres and styles, making them one of the most versatile instruments available.
6) Fretless Bass Guitars.
Fretless bass guitars are an interesting choice for both professional and beginner musicians alike. The lack of frets creates a smooth playing experience that can allow players to explore new techniques and sounds.
For those looking to add texture, the fretless design allows for a more subtle approach than traditional fretted instruments. Additionally, since there are no frets, the notes can be bent and manipulated to create a wide array of tones.
The fretless design also makes the instrument ideal for playing certain styles of music such as jazz, funk, or blues.
With the ability to bend notes and slide between them easily, fretless bass guitars can provide a unique sound that is difficult to replicate with a standard fretted bass. This can be particularly useful for creating a more distinct sound when playing with others or solo.
Fretless bass guitars also require different techniques from traditional instruments and this can be daunting for some players.
Fretless strings are generally thinner than frets, which means that the player has to maintain extra accuracy in finger placement. The lack of frets also means that the player has to learn how to apply pressure and vibrato with greater precision.
In short, fretless bass guitars can offer musicians a unique and rewarding playing experience. With their smooth sound and ability to bend notes, they open up a range of possibilities for exploration.
However, due to the lack of frets and the extra precision required, they can also be a challenge to learn. It is important to take the time to understand how these instruments work before investing in one.
With practice, however, you will find that your skill with fretless bass guitars will slowly increase and that this unique instrument will provide an exciting journey into new musical possibilities.
7) Hollowbody Bass Guitar.
The hollowbody bass guitar is a perfect blend between traditional acoustic and electric guitars. It was developed in the 1950s as a way to increase the volume of more traditional acoustic instruments, while still retaining their distinctive sound.
The hollowbody bass has become increasingly popular for its ability to produce an incredibly versatile range of tones, from deep thumping lows to shimmering highs.
The body of the hollowbody bass guitar is usually made from a combination of solid woods, creating a resonance chamber that helps project sound and produces an incredibly full-bodied tone.
The design also features two large f-holes which help to naturally amplify the instrument. This allows for great sustain, as well as increased range of dynamics.
The hollowbody bass guitar is well suited to a variety of music styles, from jazz and blues to rock and metal.
It has become a popular choice for bassists who want an instrument that can give them both depth and clarity in their sound. The rich tone of the hollowbody bass is also often used as a lead instrument, as it is capable of producing complex melodies.
The hollowbody bass guitar has become an increasingly popular choice for musicians who appreciate its versatile sound and attractive aesthetic.
It is a great instrument for those looking to explore new tonal possibilities with their playing and stands out from more traditional bass guitars.
8) Long Scale Bass Guitar.
The Long Scale Bass Guitar is a great choice for bassists who require more than just the standard tones of their instruments. This type of instrument offers extended range and greater playability, making it an ideal choice for professionals and beginners alike.
The long scale length increases the tension on the strings, resulting in deeper and fuller sound. The increased string tension also makes it easier to play faster and heavier genres of music such as metal, funk, or punk.
It also creates a slightly higher pitch when the strings are plucked or strummed compared to shorter scale basses.
The longer scale length on the Long Scale Bass Guitar provides a broad range of tones that can be used for a variety of musical styles.
The added tension on the strings allows for a higher register as well as more complex or intricate passages that may not be possible on shorter scale basses.
With its wide tonal range, this type of instrument is often used in studio recordings and live performances alike.
9) Multi-scale or Fanned Fret Basses.
Multi-scale or fanned fret bass guitars are a unique type of instrument that offer an innovative approach to sound.
Unlike traditional instruments, where the strings and frets are all the same size, multi-scale basses use different length strings and fret positions across their scale length.
This allows for greater range of tones and more precise pitch control for intricate bass lines.
This innovative design works by using two different scale lengths, which are joined at the bridge and nut on either side of the neck.
The acoustic benefit of the multi-scale design is that each string can vibrate more freely and naturally, resulting in a louder and fuller sound with enhanced sustain.
Players also benefit from the multi-scale design as it allows for greater left and right hand reach, making complex bass lines easier to play.
In addition, a fanned fret bass is typically lighter than traditional models due to its shorter neck length.
10) Piccolo Bass Guitars.
Piccolo bass guitars are a unique instrument designed for musicians who want to stand out from the crowd. They offer a much smaller size than traditional bass guitars, usually measuring only about 24 inches in length.
While this could be seen as limiting by some, it has the advantage of creating an easier-to-play experience due to its more compact design. This is especially beneficial for those just starting out on the bass.
The sound of a piccolo bass guitar can vary depending on the model and materials used in its construction, but typically it has a higher-pitched, twangy tone than traditional bass guitars. Despite being more compact, they still produce a full range of tones that can be used to create a wide variety of musical styles.
In addition to the smaller size, piccolo bass guitars also have several other unique features that make them stand out from traditional instruments.
These include shorter scale lengths and alternate tunings such as Drop D or Open G. This makes it easier for players to explore different sounds and styles of music.
11) Semi-hollow Bass Guitars.
A semi-hollow body bass has the classic warmth and fullness of a hollow-body instrument with the added advantage of greater string clarity, punch and tonal range.
Semi-hollow bass guitars typically have two or three f-holes that allow air to move between the top and back wood panels. This creates resonance while maintaining strong bass tones from the solid center block inside.
This combination of tonal characteristics makes semi-hollow bass guitars ideal for jazz, funk, blues and other styles that rely on subtlety and nuance. The body shape also allows players to access higher fret positions than many other bass designs.
12) Short-scale Bass Guitars.
The short-scale bass guitar is an incredibly versatile and comfortable instrument that offers a unique tone to the player. It provides players with the ability to explore a wide range of musical possibilities and feels great in the hands of all types of players, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Short-scale bass guitars can provide a deeper sound than longer-scale instruments because of their shorter strings and smaller bodies.
This makes them ideal for jazz, blues, folk music, and other musical styles that require a more subtle bassline. The tone is often described as soft, mellow and warm with plenty of midrange punch.
Furthermore, short-scale bass guitars are perfect for players with small hands, as they require less stretching and effort to reach the frets.
Their shorter scale length also allows for lower action and easier setup, allowing more players to get into playing bass without struggling with uncomfortable string tension.
13) Solid-body Electric Bass Guitars.
Solid-body electric bass guitars have been around for decades, and the technology behind them has only gotten better over time. The solid body of the guitar is designed to produce a powerful, clear sound that can be heard in any situation.
It also makes playing on stage easier as the instrument is less prone to feedback than other types of electric instruments.
The pickups on these guitars are also designed to capture more of the bass frequencies; this allows for a richer, fuller sound without having to use an amplifier.
With various pickup configurations and controls, solid-body electric bass guitars can be used in many different genres of music from jazz and blues to hard rock and metal.
For those looking for a modern take on the classic bass guitar sound, a solid-body electric bass is the perfect choice.
14) Stand Up Bass Guitar.
The Stand Up Bass Guitar is one of the most versatile instruments on the market today. It has a unique sound and feel that make it perfect for genres ranging from jazz to folk, rock to blues and beyond.
Commonly referred to as an upright bass or simply “the bass”, this instrument is designed to be played with a bow or with the fingers, giving it a much wider range of tones and sounds than other stringed instruments.
The Stand Up Bass Guitar is a popular choice for musicians looking to add depth and richness to their sound. Its distinct low-end rumble creates an intense atmosphere that can’t be matched by any other instrument.
The Stand Up Bass Guitar consists of several components. The neck, which is typically made from maple, contains the fingerboard and strings. The bridge holds the strings in place and transfers their vibrations to the body of the instrument.
This body generally consists of a hollow wooden frame with four metal tuning pegs that allow for precise tuning. Finally, there are two pickups on either side of the bridge, which amplify the signals sent from the strings to create a louder sound.
The Stand Up Bass Guitar has long been a staple of jazz, blues and folk music since its introduction in the early 1900s. Before that time, upright basses were typically constructed as part of an orchestra or band ensemble for larger musical pieces such as symphonies.
15) U-bass or Ukulele Bass.
U-bass or Ukulele Bass is an innovative new form of bass instrument that combines the scale length and tuning of a traditional ukulele with the deep, rich sound of a bass guitar.
The original U-Bass was created by California based manufacturer Kala Brand Music Co. in 2009 and has quickly become popular among musicians of all genres.
U-Bass offers the advantages of a traditional bass guitar, but with a much smaller size and lighter weight. The addition of an extended scale length has allowed U-bass players to reach lower notes than they could on a regular ukulele – and since it’s tuned like a bass guitar, even experienced bass players can easily transition to U-bass.
U-Bass also eliminates the need for heavy amplifiers and long cables – since it’s much smaller in size, a small amp or even headphones can be used to get the full effect of its warm, deep sound. This makes U-bass an excellent choice for both studio and live performances.
U-Bass is available in several sizes and colors, allowing players to customize their instrument to fit their own style. With a wide variety of accessories and add-ons, U-Bass has everything the modern bass player needs to explore the world of low end music. From jazz fusion to bluegrass, there’s sure to be a U-Bass to suit your needs.
16) Upright or Double Bass Guitars.
The upright bass, also known as the double bass or simply the bass, is a stringed instrument that is most commonly used in jazz and classical music. The double bass has four strings tuned in fourths (E-A-D-G). It is typically played with a bow or plucked with fingers or a plectrum.
The double bass has a rich history and is an essential part of any jazz ensemble. It can also be used to provide the low-end foundation for rock, pop, folk, and classical music. The instrument’s large size makes it difficult to transport or take on the road, but its unique sound is worth the effort!
Bass Tonewoods.
When it comes to bass guitars, the type of tonewood used is crucial for achieving the desired sound. Tonewoods are best described as woods that lend certain sonic characteristics to the instrument, allowing players greater flexibility and control over their tone.
Some of the most popular tonewoods used in bass guitar construction include Maple, Alder, Mahogany and Rosewood.
1. Ash.
Ash is a lightweight tonewood that is often used to craft bass guitars. Its bright tone helps emphasize the higher frequencies of notes, which makes it great for creating a punchy and articulate sound. The grain of ash can vary quite widely, so different pieces can produce unique sounds.
2. Alder.
Alder is a lightweight tone wood with a balanced, bright sound. It is known for having a very clear and articulate attack when used on bass guitars, as well as good low-end punch.
Alder has been one of the most popular choices for building electric basses since its introduction in the 1950s.
3. Basswood.
Basswood is a popular tonewood for bass guitar bodies, necks and fingerboards. It has a soft yet slightly bright tone that helps to bring out the lower frequencies of the instrument.
Basswood is light in weight which can be beneficial for players who need to move around with their instruments.
One downside to this tonewood is that it lacks in durability compared to other tonewoods. However, with proper care and maintenance, a basswood instrument can last for years.
4. Mahogany.
Mahogany is a classic tonewood used in bass guitars for its warm and punchy sound. This wood offers great sustain, meaning notes will last longer when played.
Mahogany also has a unique resonance that helps create a full-bodied sound with plenty of depth and clarity.
5. Walnut.
Walnut is a dark, chocolate-brown tonewood that offers a mellow yet powerful sound. It has been used in both acoustic and electric bass guitar construction for centuries, and is often found in jazz guitars.
Walnut’s mid-range frequencies are extremely responsive, making it an ideal choice for funk or blues players who like to emphasize their groove. Walnut basses tend to emphasize the higher frequencies and are often used for slap-style playing or fingerpicking.
It’s also noted for its rich tone, regardless of the style being played. The darker woods within walnut will give a darker tone when compared to other species of wood, giving more depth and character to the instrument.
Walnut has a good combination of low-end power and punch, making it suitable for all genres of music. However, because of its darker tones, it may not be the best choice for those looking to create an extremely bright tone.
6. Rosewood.
Rosewood is one of the most revered tonewoods in bass building, and its weight and density give it a warm tone with a full-bodied resonance. Rosewood’s low-end response is especially pleasing, helping to create a well-rounded sound that stands out in the mix.
Its high end frequencies can also be quite strong, providing plenty of clarity and definition. Rosewood is also known for its ‘soft attack’, giving notes a pleasing, slightly rounded feel that can help to add a touch of warmth to your playing style.
It’s an extremely attractive wood too, with its dark reddish hues adding aesthetic appeal to any instrument it adorns.
On the downside, rosewood can be somewhat brittle and prone to cracking, so it needs to be taken care of in order to last a long time.
Additionally, due to its rarity and popularity, rosewood is often quite expensive compared to other tonewoods. But if you’re after warmth and clarity with plenty of aesthetic appeal, rosewood might just be the perfect choice for your next bass build.
7. Maple
Maple is a dense hardwood with tight grain patterning that helps to produce a bright, clear tone with lots of sustain. It is most commonly used on the top and back of bass guitars and gives them a punchy mid-range presence that can cut through the mix.
The highs are particularly strong with maple, making it a great choice for metal and other hard-hitting genres. It also has excellent sustain characteristics, helping to ensure that notes ring out loud and clear for as long as possible.
The downside of maple is that it can make a bass sound overly bright or ‘harsh’, so some people may prefer to use it in combination with other tonewoods to tame its brightness.
Additionally, maple can be somewhat expensive compared to other types of wood, so it’s important to consider the cost before investing in this tonewood for your next bass build.
What to consider when buying a bass guitar?
When deciding to buy a bass guitar, there are a few important factors to consider.
The first is the type of music you plan on playing with your instrument. Different genres require different instruments and play styles. If you’re looking for something versatile enough to cover multiple genres, an electric bass will be the best choice as they offer the most range of sound and tone.
Next, you’ll want to consider the size of your bass guitar. As with any stringed instrument, size matters when it comes to a bass guitar – larger instruments may require more skill and strength to play. It’s important that you find something that feels comfortable for your body type and playing style.
Finally, you’ll want to think about the sound quality of your bass guitar. While all instruments are not created equal, there are a few basic qualities to look for in order to ensure optimal performance. Look for quality electronics like pickups or active controls, along with solid construction materials such as wood or graphite for the body and neck.
How many different types of bass guitars are there?
In general, there are four main categories of bass guitars: 4-string basses, 5-string basses, 6-string basses, and 8-string basses. Each type is different in terms of the notes it can play and the way it is played.
4-String Bass Guitars are the most common type and are best for beginner bassists. They offer a solid range of notes for beginners to practice and learn with.
5-String Bass Guitars add an extra string which extends the low range, allowing players to reach even lower notes than with a 4-string. Advanced players might use 5-strings if they need to play more complex pieces.
6-String Bass Guitars have two extra strings on either side of the 4th string. This allows players to access a wider range of notes, as well as providing more options when improvising and creating complex melodies.
8-String Bass Guitars add four additional strings to the standard 4-string bass. These extra strings allow players to access notes up to two octaves lower than the standard 4-string bass. This makes them a great choice for heavy metal and other low-end genres, as well as being used experimentally in more complex pieces.
What is the most common bass guitar?
The most popular bass guitar is the Fender Precision Bass, first introduced in 1951. It quickly became one of the earliest and most widely used electric bass guitars due to its iconic design and sound.
The P-Bass has been used on countless recordings by legendary musicians such as Paul McCartney, Sting, Geddy Lee, Jaco Pastorius and many more. The P-Bass is known for its distinctive tone, provided by two single-coil pickups, which are also great for creating a variety of different sounds.
What’s better P or J Bass?
The answer to this question really comes down to personal preference and what style of music you are playing.
Generally speaking, P-style basses offer more focused mid-range tones that can be great for rock, funk, and blues styles while the J-style basses provide a stronger low-end punch with bright treble tones that bring clarity and definition to slap bass styles.
If you’re playing a variety of styles, then choosing one or the other may not be necessary as both can be used for most types of music.
What type of bass is best for a beginner?
The Bass is a great instrument for beginners. There are many different types of bass available, each with its own unique sound and feel.
The best type of bass to start with as a beginner is an acoustic-electric or electric bass guitar. These instruments will give beginner players the advantage of being able to adjust the volume and tone easily while learning. Acoustic basses are usually easier to learn on and provide a warmer, more subtle sound than electric basses.
The size of the instrument is also an important factor for beginners. Smaller instruments such as short-scale electric bass guitars or travel acoustic bass guitars are ideal for beginner players who may have smaller hands or who want a more portable instrument.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a bass guitar, there are many options available. Depending on the style of music you want to play and your budget, one type may be better suited for you than another. It’s important to think carefully about what kind of sound you want from your instrument and what characteristics will help you achieve that goal.
