Fender Player P-Bass

[So]

We bought my 12 year old son an "SX Bass" which was quite cheap and a rip-off of a Fender.

He has taught himself to play it largely and is taking his Grade 4 in December. If he passes we are wondering whether to buy him a proper Fender. The "Player" is the only one we can justify to be honest, but are they any good?

Thanks for any pointers.

[suthol]

Have a look at Squier particularly the Classic Vibe range, excellent quality at an affordable price, don't know about the basses but the CV Teles have Tonerider pickups so also sound decent out of the box.

One of the guys I jam with has a Squier PBass that feels great in the hands and awesome through his "proper amp" but a bit ordinary through his small jam amp, obviously the amp is the issue here

[darreni]

You’d get far more for your money new second hand.

Try here: https://www.basschat.co.uk/forum/19-basses-for-sal...

I bought my stingray off the forum a few years ago with no issues.

[So]

It will be a Christmas present, so secondhand isn't ideal.

[Mutton]

You could try the Sire Marcus Miller range of basses. The version 2 V7 or P7 ranges offer a great sound and build quality for the money with passive and active modes, with the active pre-amp offering a great range of tones. Plenty of positve reviews on YouTube for you to check out.

https://www.andertons.co.uk/sire-marcus-miller-ver...

[dojo]

Can't go wrong with a P ...

He can always upgrade pickups, hardware down the line.
I'd say its a great first 'proper' bass.

I'd defo go Fender, the only other thing I'd look at is a Musicman Sub Stingray

[audidoody]

I bought a Squier Affinity P-Bass for £85. Another £120 to change pickups, wiring harness, pots and bridge (all available on eBay and a simple DIY job. All the bass you'll ever need!