I have narrowed my choices down to three. I have played two of them and like them both. My budget is around 3 bills. I am going on the cheap this time. I was thinking of either getting a VM modified Squire like in the other thread...nice bass, I like the sounds I can get from it, an Epiphone Thunderbird, which I like as well, or get me one of those SX J basses with the bridge and pickup covers and hot rod it with an Audere preamp.

I have also considered getting a Geddy neck to replace my neck in my Aerodyne.

What do you all like in either of those basses? I have played them with the exception of the SX. I like the other ones too. Just looking for your opinions.

I've tried them too with the exception of the SX and so far I'd go with the Squier. The T-bird has a nice neck but tone wise it seems like a one-trick pony. I like the looks and the price of those SX basses. I heard one on Youtube and it didn't sound bad but I don't know. Then again they are very cheap.

I guess I could always go with the Squier and add a preamp later.

I think bang-for-the-buck-wise, I'd go with the Squier. The T-bird is cool looking but I'm not a big fan of Epi basses (my converted fretless excluded...but only after years of tweaking and moding...and it could still be much better). I've read a lot of mixed reviews about SX basses and while the retailer gets rave reviews for customer service...I think I'd only spend the coin on one for schtick purposes (like the forthcoming Cohizzle Signature Model...it'll happen).

Squier VM Jazz! I just sold mine this afternoon and will have to start shopping for another.
Rocky

I'm always thinking about a new bass and really have to hold myself back. I only bought two this year so I am pretty proud of myself. (I also sold one and have another for sale, so I hope to come out with the same number of instruments in the long run. I'm trying to stay below 10.)

Squier VM, definitely. I've had two, and if I hadn't needed the money, I'd still own the first one. The Duncan Designed p/ups sound marvelous, the neck is great, I like the color(sunburst), it's nice & light, easy to play, sets up with no struggles, really, it's one of the best instruments I've ever owned right out of the box.

While I've been trying to wean myself down to two basses, three is where I'm at right now. I'm always thinking about new basses and new gear.
I liked the Squier VM Jazz well enough and like the looks (probably would want to tint the neck though, hah). I also like all three of the Classic Vibe series. I didn't care for the Gibson T Bird I played, so I don't think I'd like an Epi either. If you're getting one off ebay though there are several jazz basses in your price range on there now. Happy hunting.

I vote for the SX, this one below specifically ($139.95).

http://www.rondomusic.com/sjb62ct.html




New bridge, pups, and slap in that preamp, you got yourself a killin' machine for less than the Squier.

That is the one I was looking at. I still don't know yet though.

What's wrong with this one?

I don't know what preamp you're looking at but the Audere pres that I remember checking out would easily raise the price into the Squier range (especially if you want new bridge and pups as well). Many of the negative reviews I've read about SXs were about the necks so I'd still be hesitant to go that way. But then again, it could be to your liking.

It's got a white pickguard...

DX

I'd go with the Squier, too. The SX's are a good alternative for a cheap bass, but they would require basically a full electronics upgrade package, and maybe even a new neck, from the sounds of it. Not to mention you'd be buying it unplayed and unseen... You've at least played the Squier, and know what it sounds and feels like.

DX

squier +1

Nothing, I have a P-bass that color. Well, at the moment it is just a body with a maple neck and cream block inlays.

...and maple neck.

Nothing I see but I would have to play it to really give an opinion.
That is a pretty blue but I'm more partial to the sunburst color one from Rizzo's post.

Me too. Call me an old fogey or whatever you want, I think that's a great color scheme for a Fender Bass.

I know, I know, "You're a great color scheme for a Fender bass."

No, you're an old fogey.

Actually I was thinking you'd probably be a terrible color scheme for a Fender bass.

I'll go against the grain, and say the Thunderbird. I wouldn't call it a one trick pony; but all of it's tricks are thick. (Wait for it...) There's a used one on the local Craig's List that's only $200, and I'd love to snatch it up; however, a) I love my wife and want to stay married to her; and b) I'm holding out to try one of the new 5-string T-birds Epi just released. My Epi Les Paul 5 is still my main bass, going on 10 years.

I'm going to vote for the Squier VM or Classic Vibe as well- even though I realy want to like the SX. The only thing I don't like about the Squier lines is the Ford Model T color scheme- 'you can have whatever color you want, as long as it's....'

Tone wise, the Squier higher end lines hold their own real well. Speaking of which, they are now offering a 4 string version of the 5 string active model. Haven't played one yet, but the 5 string sees pretty good and gets good reviews.

Happy GAS'ing

There is one on the Nova craigslist that has had its pickguard and something else painted gold. Me no likey that. It is closer to the price range that I would like to spend though.

Just saw the ad was from Towson. Guess he posted it all over.

I've played one SX in my day. I did not like the neck. The one I played felt like the barrel of a baseball bat. Ugh.

Lots of choices in your price range, especially if you're willing to go with a used instrument and are willing to be patient. In the meantime, just play a bunch of basses.

Peace.
--SW

Yep, that's the one. Not a big deal about the paint job, to me; might look worse in person,though. I figured getting a new one wouldn't be that expensive if it came down to it. Still, I'm on a spending freeze for now so...

Beached Whale's Belly White with a Farmer's Arm Red neck and Old & In The Way Gray headstock just not your bag, eh?

Nice.

Between the SX and the Squire, get the Squire. The SX is a good beginner bass that has a HUGE neck and terrible pickups and components. The Squire will last longer, is more comfortable to play, sounds better, and has better quality components (still not great components, but better than the SX). Hope this helps.