Tips on buying a Bass from a Pawn Shop?

Question

I've learned a little (acoustic) guitar and wanted to try an electric bass. Not being sure I'd like it I didn't want to spend a whole lot and noticed that almost every pawn shop has 1-3 basses for about $100 or so. Any tips on buying one there to use for learning and getting started? I'd prefer to just rent one, but no one in our area does that.

Thanks!

Answer 1

some good brands for starter basses are: squire, epiphone, yahmaha

Answer 2

HI JM.  There is nothing wrong with buying an instrument at a pawn shop.   Pawn shops are not music store and do not buy from cheap guitar manufacturers.  They buy from people like you and I...  people who are in dire need of money and have to pawn in their guitars to pay the bills.   If you are familiar with the better name brand electric bass guitars,  you should not have a problem recognizing a good guitar in excellent condition.   Stick with the name brands.  Of course,  your examination of the instrument will tell you alot about how it was taken care of.  You are also allowed to hook it up and play it before you buy...   so,  you save money and get a quality expensive bass guitar.   I see it as a win-win,  but if you are very concerned,  see if the shop will give you a 24 hour guarantee so that you can run it over to a guitar shop and have the experts check it out for you.   I have purchased merchandise at a pawn shop many times and the only thing I am consistent at getting is Super Great Deals!!!  Thanks for reading.