What do you need to start playing the electric bass...?

Question:i need to know what stuff you need in terms of like picks, amps, tuners and stuff like that..

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: i need to know what stuff you need in terms of like picks, amps, tuners and stuff like that..

All you really need is the bass, a cord to connect it to the amp, and an amp. You might also like to have a case and an instructional book/dvd. Guitar Center or Musician's Friend (www.musiciansfriend.com) have kits with all the stuff, which is probably the cheapest way to get everything.

A tuner is really nice. Picks are optional, but if you go that route, use heavy for sure. You don't need that for traditional 2 finger plucking or slap style.

I do recommend a high quality cable from your axe to your amp. I have 2 that look similar and have got them mixed up before. I always wondered why I sounded punchy on some days and not on others and finally realized the cable made a big difference. It did not make much of a different on electric guitar but was very noticeable on bass. Of course, start with something easily affordable for now and work up.

As for amps, playing bass means you'll need to pay more $$ because of the larger speakers and more wattage needed for the lower tone. I do OK at church with a 150 watt with just 1 12' speaker. You can do less than that but it depends on what you do and what equipment other people you play with have. Also, be aware that sometimes your bass with carry more on hard floors...

I use a 4 string but some bass players do 5 or even 6. The 6's are a little bulky, and 5 strings seem very popular today while 4 string is very traditional and common too...

To play, It helps to play with others alot. Bass is really a band instrument and playing alone isn't that same as guitar or piano. Keep in mind you are the real pulse of the band and you make the others sound good when you're good. I really play guitar but play bass where no bass player is around because I think it's too important.

Good luck!