Electric Bass Guitars856 Product

Essential information on electric basses

The electric bass – the foundation of modern bands since the 1950s

The electric bass, alongside the electric guitar, is one of the major musical innovations to emerge in the 1950s. The first widely recognised electric bass guitar was the Fender Precision Bass, introduced in 1951 by Leo Fender. Until then, bands had to rely on the acoustic double bass, which was bulky, difficult to transport, required advanced technique for accurate intonation, and could no longer keep up in volume with amplified instruments. The P-Bass, with its solid-body construction and magnetic pickup, allowed players to perform comfortably through an amp, while the fretted fingerboard made accurate pitch much easier – even for musicians without classical training.

Within a short time, countless bands from the growing country, rock’n’roll and Motown scenes switched to electric basses. As the rhythmic and tonal foundation of a band, the instrument combines groove, harmonic support and melodic playing in a single role.

Electric basses in a wide range of models

Starting with the Fender Precision Bass, a huge variety of electric bass designs developed in a relatively short time – a process that continues to this day. In 1960, Fender launched the Fender Jazz Bass, which quickly became a bestseller thanks to its improved ergonomics and highly versatile sound.

Fender’s main competitor, Gibson, also entered the market: in 1953 with an early electric bass featuring a compact, violin-shaped body, followed in 1958 by the still popular Gibson EB models in SG-style shapes. In 1963, the Gibson Thunderbird appeared, a bass whose distinctive design has become a rock icon. In 1976, the Music Man StingRay was introduced as one of the first basses with active electronics. More recently, brands such as Ibanez, Yamaha and Spector have set new standards in comfort and tonal flexibility with modern designs and sophisticated circuitry. Fender also expanded its range in the 1990s with signature models such as the Marcus Miller Jazz Bass, based on Miller’s own modified J-Bass.

Construction & features

In basic terms, electric basses can be divided into solid-body and semi-hollow designs. Solid-body instruments use a solid wooden body, which makes them very resistant to feedback and ideal for loud live situations. Semi-hollow basses, with part of the body hollowed out or chambered, offer a particularly warm, resonant tone that many players appreciate in roots, blues and rock contexts.

Neck construction also differs significantly between manufacturers. Fender traditionally uses a bolt-on neck joint, which provides a snappy attack and clear response. Gibson, among others, often prefers glued-in necks for a more cohesive, singing sustain. High-end designs from brands like Ibanez, Spector or ESP frequently use neck-through construction, where the neck runs through the entire body. This supports long, even sustain and a very smooth feel across the whole instrument.

In addition to the classic 4-string bass, players in rock and metal often choose 5-string models with a low B string. Modern jazz and fusion players frequently opt for 6-string basses with extended range. For a sound closer to an upright bass, many players turn to fretless instruments. A wide selection of left-handed basses is also available.

Pickups & electronics

Electric basses offer a broad spectrum of pickup types and electronic layouts. The split-coil pickup commonly found on the Precision Bass delivers a punchy, mid-focused sound that is especially popular in rock, soul and R&B. The single-coil pickup of the Jazz Bass is known for its clear, articulate tone and strong presence in a mix, making it a true all-rounder across genres. Humbuckers provide a hum-free, powerful voice with plenty of low-end weight.

Alongside traditional passive pickups, many modern basses feature active pickups and preamps, adding clarity, headroom and extended tonal shaping options. While classic designs tend to use a passive tone control, contemporary instruments often offer active 2-band or 3-band EQ sections for precise control over the key frequency ranges of the bass.

Buying electric basses at MUSIC STORE

In the MUSIC STORE bass department, players will find a wide range of instruments for every style and budget. For beginners, affordable bass starter sets provide everything needed to get going. Popular designs originally created by Leo Fender are offered by Squier and Fender, with instruments ranging from entry-level models to Mexican- and US-built basses and exclusive Custom Shop creations.

Players looking for modern sounds and ergonomics often turn to Ibanez electric basses or instruments from Spector and ESP. With an outstanding price-performance ratio, Fame Baphomet and Custom basses are also an attractive option, available in both four- and five-string versions.

Popular brands in our bass range

Epiphone, Duesenberg, ESP, Fame, Fender, Gibson, Squier, Gretsch, Ibanez, J&D, Rickenbacker, Sandberg, Spector, Vintage, Yamaha

Play bass better – muting techniques