Are Cheap Basses Worth It? A Brutally Honest Review

Are Cheap Basses Worth It? A Brutally Honest Review

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Testing Criteria for Cheap Basses
3. The Glarry Bass
4. The Harley Benton Bass
5. The ZTDM Bass
6. The Polar Aurora Bass
7. The eBay Bass
8. The Comparison: Squier Affinity vs. Harley Benton
9. The Pros and Cons of Buying Cheap Basses
10. The Importance of Setup and Buying in Person
11. Conclusion

Cheap Basses: Can They Really Do the Job?

Introduction

In this article, we will Delve into the world of cheap bass guitars to determine if they can truly deliver on their promise. We will be examining five budget-friendly basses, purchased from online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, to see if they provide a viable option for beginners or if they are simply a waste of money. This unbiased review aims to provide an honest assessment of these instruments' sound quality, playability, and build quality. So, let's dive in and find out if You can actually get a solid working bass for a hundred dollars or less.

Testing Criteria for Cheap Basses

Before we get into the individual basses, it's important to understand the criteria that were used to evaluate them. The testing process involved recording direct into an interface, using out-of-the-box setups and strings provided with each bass. The comparison was focused on precision basses, as they offer a classic, foolproof bass tone. Each bass was subject to a tone battle, followed by an assessment of playability and build quality. Finally, the favorite bass among the five was chosen and compared against a pricier bass in a blind tone off.

The Glarry Bass

The Glarry bass impresses with its eye-catching yellow finish, although it does have some minor issues. The frets are not sharp on the sides and the setup holds up well, with no buzzing frets. However, like all the cheap basses, the Glarry suffers from major neck dive issues. The tuners feel a bit cheap, but this is a common characteristic among these basses. The neck joint is also a bit loose, which is not ideal for a well-built instrument.

The Harley Benton Bass

The Harley Benton bass stands out with its higher output and decent playability. It holds its setup well and has significantly less neck dive compared to the Glarry bass due to its HEAVIER body. However, it does have a major downside - the fret edges are coming off the fretboard, leading to discomfort while playing. This issue is likely a result of wood shrinkage during shipping.

The ZTDM Bass

The ZTDM Bass features an intriguing paint job and a striking pickguard. However, the pickups are sunk too deep into the body, impacting the bass's overall output. The frets on this bass were particularly problematic, requiring the need for fret filing due to their size and sharp edges. Although fixable, it was an inconvenience and affected the overall playability.

The Polar Aurora Bass

The Polar Aurora Bass shares design similarities with the previous basses but has slightly better pickups. However, just like the others, the pickups are set too far from the strings, requiring adjustments. The setup is okay, but the body's lightweight causes neck dive issues and impedes tapping techniques. Additionally, the strings are of poor quality, leading to stickiness and difficulty in shifting.

The eBay Bass

The eBay bass, also known as the "mystery bass," features a sunburst finish and has functional knobs, bridge, and pickups. However, it suffers from similar issues found in other cheap basses, such as the pickups being too far buried in the body and large gaps in the neck joint. On top of that, it has a setup issue resulting in some buzzing on the higher frets.

The Comparison: Squier Affinity vs. Harley Benton

To establish a benchmark, the Harley Benton bass, which was the favorite among the cheap basses, was compared against a higher-priced bass - the Squier Affinity PJ bass. In a blind tone test, both basses delivered similar sound quality. While there were some subtle differences in tone, it couldn't be said that the Squier sounded dramatically better than the Harley Benton.

The Pros and Cons of Buying Cheap Basses

When considering whether to purchase a hundred-dollar or less bass, there are pros and cons to weigh. While it is possible to find higher-quality used basses from reputable brands at similar price points, brand name basses generally hold better resale value. The downside to buying used is the risk of Hidden issues that may be expensive to fix. On the other HAND, buying new offers the AdVantage of being able to return the bass if any problems arise. However, it is crucial to budget for a setup to maximize the instrument's potential.

The Importance of Setup and Buying in Person

No matter the price range, a bass guitar's setup can greatly impact its playability and sound quality. Investing in a professional setup can make a significant difference. Furthermore, if possible, buying a bass in person allows for a thorough examination of the instrument's fretwork, setup, and overall feel. This ensures that you are purchasing a bass that suits your preferences and avoids any potential disappointments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cheap basses tested generally fell short in terms of overall quality. Although the Harley Benton emerged as the favorite among the five, it still had its own issues. Buying a used bass from reputable brands like Squier, Yamaha, or Ibanez is often recommended for those on a budget. However, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect any used instrument for potential problems. Whether buying new or used, budgeting for a setup is strongly advised to unlock the full potential of the bass. Ultimately, the decision between a cheap bass and a higher-priced option comes down to personal preferences and needs.

Highlights:

• Five cheap basses were tested to determine their quality and value.
• The Harley Benton bass emerged as the favorite among the five tested.
• Buying used from reputable brands can yield higher-quality instruments.
• A professional setup is recommended regardless of the bass's price range.
• Personal preference and budget should influence the decision between a cheap bass and a higher-priced option.

FAQ:

Q: Can you get a decent bass for a hundred dollars or less? A: While some cheap basses may offer decent value, the overall quality is often lacking. It is recommended to explore used options from reputable brands for better materials and build quality.

Q: Is it better to buy a used bass or a new one? A: Both options have their pros and cons. Buying used can offer higher-quality instruments and better resale value, but there is a risk of hidden issues. Buying new provides the advantage of being able to return the bass if any problems arise.

Q: How important is a setup for a bass guitar? A: A professional setup is crucial for maximizing a bass's playability and sound quality. It ensures that the instrument is properly adjusted and can greatly enhance the overall experience of playing.

Q: Should I buy a bass in person or online? A: Buying a bass in person allows for a thorough examination of the instrument's condition, fretwork, and setup. However, online purchases can offer a wider selection and the convenience of home delivery.