10 Best Bass Guitar Brands
The Best Bass Guitar Companies
Some of the best bass guitars in the world are made by manufacturers who also create the finest electric guitars. Others are built by companies that specialize only in gear for bass players.
Just like in any other industry, some of these companies are better than others. And, some focus on certain genres or styles of music. If you play bass or are thinking about it, it's important to know who is who.
But figuring it out isn't always easy. You're going to have to do a little research to uncover which companies make exactly what you need for your style and budget.
This article can help. In this guide we’ll take a look at some of the best bass guitar brands out there, and what makes them so great. These are companies that have forged their legacies over the decades, and sometimes centuries.
Even if you’re familiar with most of the famous guitar makers, it’s a good bet you haven't heard of some of the top bass companies on the planet. The low-end is a different world, with a different language and a whole new set of players.
If you are here because you're looking for a starter instrument for a beginner you may want to check out this article first:
Otherwise, let's look at the top brands!
Top 10 Bass Guitar Brands
This article is only intended to give you an overview of the different bass guitar brands. However, if I had to put them in order this would be my top 10 list. As always, it is based on my own opinion and experience, and therefore subject to change. List your top 10 brands in the comments below!
- Warwick
- Spector
- Fender
- Lakland
- Ibanez
- Fodera
- Rickenbacker
- Music Man
- Schecter
- Washburn
Read on to learn more about each bass guitar company. Note that the companies aren't listed in the same order as this list. I did this for a couple of reasons. One is because my opinions change from year to year and sometimes from day to day. I didn't want to reorder the whole article every time my list changed.
More importantly, not every bassist sees things from the same perspective as I do. A beginner isn't going to be interested in a Warwick, but probably would be interested in a Squier. Therefore I did my best to put the info I thought most relevant to most people at the top.
Good enough? Let's look at some bass gear!
Fender
We may as well start with one of the most legendary gear makers in the world. Fender bass guitars have been mainstays in just about every genre of music for the past half a century. Fender is generally known for passive, four-string instruments, although they do have some five-string and active instruments in their lineup.
Mostly, when you’re thinking of Fender you’re thinking about the Jazz and Precision Bass. Both are high-quality, American-made instruments, and in many ways, they have set the bar in the industry over the past 50 years.
If you don’t have the cash for an American version, or if you’d just rather ease into the Fender thing, they also have some budget-friendly Player Series” models of the Precision and Jazz that are made in their Mexico facilities.
These instruments took the place of the Standard Series, which was beloved by bassists for their value and performance. With a few minor upgrades, the Player Series looks and sounds even better. They are good enough for gigging and recording but come in at a fraction of the price of their American-made counterparts.
The American Original Series of guitars and basses are high-quality instruments with innovative design tweaks and high-performance components. Of course, they still maintain that classic look and feel the Fender Jazz and Precision made famous. If you are thinking about a high-level bass the American Original Series is worth a look.
Fender American Original Series '60s Jazz Bass
Squier
Squier is Fender’s little brother, so to speak. They are owned by Fender, and most Squier guitars are low-cost versions of Fender instruments. This means a beginning player can start out with a Fender-style Precision or Jazz Bass at a reasonable price.
I always recommend the Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass for beginners. They are the most affordable Squiers, and they sound great. There are only a handful of high-quality, budget-friendly instruments that I think are smart choices for beginners and this is one of them.
But Squier also makes some gear that's good enough for veteran musicians, such as the Classic Vibe and Vintage Modified series, which cost just a bit more and are great values for the money.
Among my favorite Squier basses, and one I've been playing for a few years now is the Vintage Modified '70s Jazz Bass. It has a feel and sound of a more expensive instrument, but a price tag that works for beginners.
The Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass has impressed veteran bassists with its sound and build quality, but this is a guitar that's priced for beginner and intermediate players! Before you think about a Standard Fender Jazz Bass, take a close look at the Squier Vintage Modified Series.
Squier has always done a great job of presenting a quality instrument for an affordable price. Squier starter packs are available for newbie bassists too, and they include a Squier bass, a Fender amp, and all the other accessories a beginner needs to get started.
If you are a bass newbie, or a guitar player looking for an easy and affordable way to start playing bass, a Squier by Fender Starter Pack is hard to beat.
Squier Vintage Modified '70s Jazz Bass Natural
Ibanez
Ibanez guitars are loved by metal guys. Their basses have their share of worshippers in the metal crowd too, but their reputation also reaches out into other genres, most notably jazz.
Ibanez is a Japanese company that started out decades ago making quality copies of American instruments but has since evolved into an instrument manufacturer with some great gear under their own brand name.
Their Soundgear and BTB lines are known for fast necks and versatile electronics, as well as some truly beautiful woods and finishes.
In recent years Ibanez has introduced some serious upgrades to their Soundgear lineup, with innovative electronics, tonewoods, hardware, and body styles. I started out playing a Soundgear over 20 years ago, and Ibanez has continually improved in the design since then.
Beginners should check out the GSR200. It's one of the best starter bass guitars you are going to find, especially players who are into metal and hard rock. If you are new to this, the GSR200 is a great first instrument.
Ibanez Soundgear Bass Guitars
Washburn
Washburn has been around for over 125 years, and they’ve sure had their ups and downs during that time. In the Washburn bass lineup today you’ll find their high-end Stu Hamm signature model, but Washburn also makes some great intermediate instruments for reasonable prices.
The Washburn Taurus series starts with the basic T12 model and moves up to the higher-quality T24 and T25. Even the T24 can be found for around half a grand, but it looks like a much more expensive instrument. For the bassist on a budget, the Taurus T24 (the T25 is the 5-string version) is definitely worth checking out.
Schecter
Schecter guitars are some of the best deals in the music world. They are also among the top basses for metal and hard rock.
You can find appointments in a Schecter instrument that you’d expect to see in an instrument costing hundreds of dollars more. There are many models to choose from, but you may want to start with the Stiletto Series.
It’s hard to imagine how Schecter fits features like EMG pickups, active EQs, and a figured maple tops for such a low cost. If the Stiletto design doesn’t do it for you, there are plenty of other Schecter basses that might.
I owned a Schecter Stilletto for a while, and it definitely falls into the category of gear I wish I never parted with.
This is a guitar company that continues to impress by presenting amazing gear that seems like it should cost way more than it does. They offer affordable instruments with the sound and quality to succeed onstage or in the studio. Particularly if you are into rock music, Schecter is hard to pass up.
Schecter Stiletto and Riot Bass Guitars
Rickenbacker
Rickenbacker is another example of a company that has shaped the sound of rock music over the decades. Though they are not as numerous or well-known as Fender instruments, Rickenbacker basses have found their way into the hands of musicians like Paul McCartney, Geddy Lee, John Entwistle, and Lemmy Kilmister.
The 4003 is their flagship model, an evolution of the original 4001, and features a classic design complete with a chrome-covered bridge pickup. While this bass might not appeal to the younger crowd, most seasoned musicians know that Rickenbackers are tone machines worth every penny of the asking price.
Rickenbacker 4000-Series bass guitars are classics, and for many players, this is a brand that deserves to be at the top of the list.
Gibson
When you hear the name Gibson you probably think of guitars. No wonder, as their Les Pauls, Explorers, SGs, and Fly Vs are some of the most coveted instruments in the music world. While Gibson isn't quite as popular among low-enders, the basses they make are as incredible as their guitars.
The best-known low-ender in the Gibson lineup may be the Thunderbird, employed for years by Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue. It’s a hot-looking instrument, modeled after the Gibson Firebird guitar shape. Yes, they even make a Les Paul bass, with the same mahogany body and maple cap that their guitars are famous for. If you have the cash, Gibson might be right up your alley.
Warwick
Warwick is a German company well deserving of being put at the top of any list of top bass guitar builders. Their Corvette, Streamer, and Thumb models, along with the rest of their German-made instruments, are worth the cost if you can swing it.
These are incredible instruments featuring exotic tonewoods and gorgeous finishes. Personally, the Warwick Corvette is probably the finest bass I ever owned. If you are serious about your music and you have a few spare coins laying around, I highly recommend it.
If cost is an issue, you’ll also find lower-priced Warwicks in their Rockbass line that makes it possible for almost anyone to own a real Warwick. Once you play one, you might be hooked on the Warwick growl for the rest of your life!
Check Out the Warwick RockBass Corvette
Yamaha
Yamaha makes all kinds of musical gear like guitars, pianos, drums, and even xylophones, but their basses are particularly well-received.
They put out some outstanding options for beginners like the RBX170, but don’t think that means they can’t do quality high-end gear as well. Their TRBX basses are comparable with the best in the business and feature high-end components and building techniques.
No matter where you stand as a musician, from newbie just starting out to veteran looking for boutique-quality gear, Yamaha has an instrument that will fit your needs. Only a handful of the manufacturers in this listing can say that.
The Yamaha TRBX 304
Lakland
Lakland is an American company, a relative newcomer. But in a short time, Lakland basses have gained a tremendous following and a reputation for outstanding sound and quality.
If you’re a fan of the Fender Jazz and Precision or Music Man styles you’ll probably see something you like in the Lakland lineup. Though they’re worth the cost, they are a bit pricey, so for more than ten years now, Lakland has been producing its Skyline series of more affordable basses. In the Skyline lineup, you’ll see some of the same classic designs as their USA series.
Spector
Spector is an American company that probably isn’t very well known even to guitar players, but holds an esteemed position in the minds of most bassists. Spectors are loved for their deep, warm, woody tone and beautiful finishes. Musicians in genres as diverse as metal and jazz rely on Spector for their sound.
The NS is the classic Spector model, with roots going back several decades. They put out some other high-quality USA-made and Euro models as well. Spector basses can be a little expensive though, so they also feature a new budget-friendly model called the Performer that’s perfect for mid-level musicians.
The Spector Legend 4
Peavey
Peavey is a company that does just about everything well when it comes to musical equipment. They make some of the best high-gain guitar amps in the world, and produce loud, bulletproof, reliable bass amps and PA gear. They do bass guitars well too, and these days their offerings are aimed more at working-class and up-and-coming musicians. That’s good because that’s most of us! Check out the Millennium, Milestone, PDX, and Grind series, as well as their starter packs if you happen to be a newbie. Peavey gear is always tough, and always worth the asking price.
Music Man
Music Man basses just have a different vibe than many other instruments. The company is part of Ernie Ball Inc., and their StingRay is their flagship, but other great models include the Sabre, Sterling, and super-funky-looking Bongo.
Where many basses have single-coil pickups, Music Man stands out for their use of big, fat humbucking pickups. Like on the guitar, these pickups present a beefier tone and help cancel unwanted noise. Some bassists swear by the StingRay and Music Man. Others find it’s not their thing. But pretty much everyone agrees that they are unique, high-quality instruments.
Check Out the Music Man StingRay
Kiesel
Kiesel (formerly Carvin) builds high-quality guitars, basses, and other musical gear, but you won’t find their instruments at your local music store. Kiesel only sells direct to the buyer, and each of their instruments is custom-tailored to the needs and wants of the musician.
Like their guitars, Carvin basses are now under the umbrella of the Kiesel brand name. This is actually a return to their roots, not so much a change in the brand. You can still expect the same excellence from Kiesel-branded instruments as always found in Carvin.
You might think custom instruments are going to be pretty expensive, but Kiesel's prices are actually quite reasonable. You pick the model of the bass you want, then choose the woods it will be built from and the color and finish, as well as the pickups, electronics options, and hardware. It’s all then custom-built just for you in their California factory.
Steinberger
Even non-musicians have probably noticed those cool little guitars and basses that look like boxes and have no headstocks. Well, those unique instruments are called Steinbergers. The old L-series Steinbergers were built using synthetic materials, not traditional wood. Today, Steinberger is owned by Gibson.
The Synapse is their flagship model at this point in time, and even though it looks similar to the traditional Steinberger design, it uses a combination of graphite and real wood. The Spirit is a similar instrument that can be had for a much lower cost, but still has the same Steinberger look.
More Bass Guitar Brands
Not every bass brand is right for every player. Here are a few more shortlists and ideas for finding the right bass according to the music genre you are into:
Top 5 Bass Brands for Beginners
- Squier
- Ibanez
- Yamaha
- Jackson
- Dean
Top 5 High-End Bass Brands
- Warwick
- Fodera
- Spector
- Caparison
- Rickenbacker
Top 5 Bass Brands for Rock
- Warwick
- Spector
- Fender
- Ibanez
- Music Man
Top 5 Bass Brands for Metal
- Ibanez
- Warwick
- Spector
- Schecter
- Jackson
Top 5 Bass Brands for Country
- Fender
- Lakland
- G&L
- Rickenbacker
- Yamaha
Top 5 Bass Brands for Jazz
- Fender
- Ibanez
- Fodera
- Warwick
- Spector
Which Bass to Choose?
In this article, I tried to focus on the best bass guitars for intermediate players. I also included some high-end brands as well as some beginner gear.
Some players find a bass they love when they first start out and stick with it for life. Others hunt for that perfect tone for their whole careers. Make sure you check out the manufacturers' websites for the most up-to-date information on their gear.
It’s pretty obvious from this article that there are a ton of different basses out there to choose from, so how do you decide which one is right for you?
Here is my advice:
- Do the research. There is no substitute for knowledge when it comes to making an informed decision. Learn as much as you can about an instrument before taking the plunge.
- Think about your goals. A bass with a great reputation may not necessarily be the right one for you. Know what you expect out of your bass before making a purchase.
- Play and listen. There is no shortcut. Trust your own ears and hands more than what you hear or read from others.
And, as you grow as a musician, your tastes will change, and you might find out that the bass you loved yesterday isn’t cutting it today.
Thankfully, we have many options, and the best bass guitar brands are constantly pushing the limits of the instrument.
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
Comments
Paul Abayon III on July 08, 2020:
I don't see Kubicki X Factor, but I'll definitely consider this when buying my next bass guitar. Thank you!
Steve on May 05, 2020:
Warwick deserves that top spot. The german Corvette I own is simply an outstanding instrument all around. Even better than the Spectors which I feel are overrated with EMGs. Their other models without them are better.
ADAMS on December 31, 2019:
MUSICMAN BONGO HH
Charles on December 19, 2019:
The new Supro Huntington Basses are all amazing.
Pete on December 06, 2019:
I own the Gibson Les Paul Junior Bass and lately it is my number 1. It has a great vintage sound and it is highly playable. I rest my thumb on the pick up and it needs to be made sturdier. I have a late 80s Fernandes. This is my first bass and it is light and a quality instrument. I also own a Fender Jazz Bass. I'm sure I'll play it again but for the past 8 mos, I've been digging the Gibson Les Paul.
darryl on December 05, 2019:
how bout a brooks...any info
David on October 21, 2019:
CARVIN hasn't made ANY guitars or basses for a couple of years now though they're great instruments. The company split and Jeff Kiesel took the instrument side of the company and its under the "KIESEL" name/brand. Hes taken the company and their instruments to a whole new level. I highly recommend checking them out.
BasslineQueen on September 01, 2019:
U are correct re; Washburn. I have 2 of them. Also a Rogue series 1001 fretless i just picked up .. Unfortunely my faverite is my old Silvertone Bass which are no longer made. However the Gibson i learned on had the sweetest sound i ever found. You just have to hit a place where u can try one till u find one u like.
Joshua Cabrales on August 21, 2019:
I wonder why Sire bass is not included. Its one of the best
DuncanBlk on May 11, 2019:
What about Sire's basses? They do very well equipment with premium components at an affordable price.
Donaldh688 on March 25, 2019:
What about Alembic Basses They Are The ROLLS ROYCE Of BASSES.You forgot about them Huh?
Guitar Gopher (author) on February 26, 2019:
@Ron - Feel free to tell us what brands you like. I am always open to suggestions!
Ron Williams on February 25, 2019:
This list looks like the top 10 'worst' bass brands !
Court on February 02, 2019:
This list is very rock oriented .. should change the title .. many of these brands are not played in other genre’s .. jazz.. gospel .. soul r&b .. most of these wouldnt make the top 20 .. ijs
Bob on November 20, 2018:
I own a Warwick five string Corvette and a four string Streamer and love them both. I have a couple of Ibanez four strings that give a more mellow sound. However, the have active pickups and drain 9V batteries quickly. The Warwicks have passive pickups, so I can jam for long periods of time without worrying about needing to change batteries.
Levi on October 01, 2018:
I have a German made Warwick corvette taranis and I absolutely love it
Guitar Gopher (author) on September 13, 2018:
If you have trouble with the size of the instrument you may wish to consider a short-scale bass such as the Squier Bronco. If it is simply a matter of the thickness of the neck, maybe look at a brand such as Ibanez that is known for making basses with very thin necks. Both Ibanez and Squier make really good basses under and around the $200 mark, so if you are new to the instrument I think they are a good place to start. Good luck!
^~^ on September 12, 2018:
What would be the best bass for someone with very tiny hands that don’t fit well around most necks?
JL on June 08, 2018:
Have you guys heard of HRT Guitars? Darren Hart creates custom guitars out of woods that I’ve never seen on any stringed instrument with inlaid pearl; Just phenomenal pieces. I think Seth Bolte and Jody Smith are clients.
Mr. Hart has mad skills. Y’all should check him out. He used to be based in Vegas but relocated to Nashville.
Ff on November 02, 2017:
I played bass 4 quite a while went through about 14 of them in my life out of all the basses that I have owned 3 stand out rise to the top my conklin gtbd77 my ibenez btb 1406e and my warrior signature series 6 bass all sound unique well made very good low action
dada on October 23, 2017:
lol, so theres no dingwall, fodera, fbass
Ignacio Rodriguez on June 25, 2017:
What about PRS Kingfisher, and Kestrel basses guitar; I believe they are great! Thanks so much for your review.
jermz on June 02, 2017:
I can sweep arpeggios 16th@180 on the meter, I can slap the incredible guitar down strokes in"Battery". I can play 16th notes @ 40 on the meter DEAD ON without the slightest loss of meter . If you want the best sounding bass in your opinion and be able to play it like Micheal Angelo plays his guitar, BUILD IT YOURSELF
Herb on December 30, 2016:
I have a 1981 Gibson Victory Artist bass and it is just a great instrument..beautiful tone..the best sustain..superbly made..the machine heads have a tension adjustment so no string slippage ever..always stays in tune..deep lows..crisp highs..great midrange..Tobacco Sunburst color..paid $900 for it in 1981..this will always be my #1..my #2 is an American Fender jazz bass..I did replace the pickups with Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounders and put on a Babicz bridge..and upgraded to a Mother of Pearl Pickguard..(I did keep all the original components that I upgraded / replaced)..this instrument was picked after playing many others..they do all sound different..and none of them sound good at the "C" note on the "G" string up at the top of the neck..great action on this one..really nice tone..fast neck..nice balance on weight..paid $1325 for it in1999..but its not a Gibson..really like the Stuart Spector basses..have heard them..but have never played them..the tone on the youtube video doesnt seem to be that superlative on the spector..the Fender Jazz sounds just as good..neither sound as good as my Gibson bass..am hearing that the new 2017 Gibson EB 4 with the Babicz bridge..Humbuckers..and set neck is a pretty nice instrument..am looking to play one..they havent arrived in music stores in my area yet..love those Gibsons..and they make the best guitars too.
Guitar Gopher (author) on November 20, 2016:
@Zack: Thanks for adding your input, and for catching the typo!
Zack on November 20, 2016:
That's Gibson Thunderbird, btw. Firebird is just the name of the guitar.
To the person who don't like Gibson basses, well, they are not for everyone. When you buy a Thunderbird,for example, you make a trade off. It is not the easiest bass to play but a real Thunderbird (or the cheaper Epiphone Pro with Gibson pickups, I have that one) gives a totally unique growling thundering sound. Throw some high quality flat wounds on it and prepare to blown away. :)
But again, this setup is definitely not for everyone. It's neck heavy and will be total pain after 2 hours if your'not accustomes to it. Check Out the Cure or the who or ZZ-Top if you want some references. Or 60's garage and Cali rock.
Ben on October 17, 2016:
Check out Watson basses. Hand crafted in U.K. Beautiful instruments
Guitar Gopher (author) on June 23, 2016:
@John. Congrats on landing a great bass! I'm big fan of the Ibanez SR Series. I've owned an SR400 and an SR505 and they were both outstanding instruments, especially for the money.
John Zane on June 22, 2016:
I've owned most of the bass brands listed in this article at one time or another in my 40+ bass career; Up until last week my main bass has bee a Fender USA P Bass with SD 1/4lb. pick-ups....I went to an old time music store that is going OOB looking for some speaker cords and other accessories cheap.Asa I entered the store I noticed a brand new beautiful Surf Blue Ibanez SR300E. The minute I felt the light weight, the incredible fast neck and the power and tone I was hooked. I paid just a little more than half price with a hard-shell case and set of my favorite D’Adarrio Chromes flats. Looks like I’ll be selling one of my other basses, probably my Fender Cowpoke, a rare and beautiful bass. These days I need a lightweight bass with a fast neck to keep me thump’in !!!
Jacques James on May 06, 2016:
Thanks, Guitar Gopher. Please understand, I'm not saying Fender or Artisan Bass don't have excellent products. I believe they both do, but of course we don't live in a perfect world. I will ship my Deluxe Jazz back to the States for repair (I'm overseas), and Artisan Bass Shop has offered to repair the custom model, free of charge (bless them!). Until then, I'm using my newly purchased Fender Japan Standard Jazz Bass (made in Japan). It costs less than $600, a third of the price of either other bass. The Japanese dealer shipped it free of charge to the Middle East country I'm in. It sounds and feels great, and it still works (knock on wood).
Guitar Gopher (author) on April 09, 2016:
Thanks for your input, Jacques. Good advice! Sorry about the Fender Deluxe Jazz.
Jacques James on April 09, 2016:
On January 22, 2016, I purchased a Fender American Deluxe Jazz Bass. The electronics (passive and active pickup system) have permanently failed (no its not the batteries). It was supposed to replace a custom bass I had purchased from Artisan Bass Shop. That bass had also stopped working after several days.
Lessons Learned:
1. The best basses are the ones you go into the shop and try out in-person.
2. After perusing many blogs, I have discovered that so-called "high-quality" instruments have quality control problems, such as resident 'hum' (electrical noise) and the problems I have experienced (lemons).
3. Alembic might make the highest-quality bass, and it might be more cost-effective to invest in a costlier-but-more-reliable instrument.