Bass guitars play a big role in music, providing the foundation of rhythm and harmony.
A 6-string bass guitar offers more range and versatility than a standard 4-string.
This added string gives you deeper bass notes and extra high notes, making it easier to explore different styles, from jazz to rock.
When searching for the best 6-string bass, think about what fits your needs.
You’ll want to look at the scale length, pickup types, and neck shape.
Each of these can affect how the bass feels and sounds when you play.
The right choice can make a big difference in your performance and overall experience.
Keep in mind that the quality of materials used in the bass can influence sound and durability.
A well-made bass with good wood and hardware can last for years and improve your playing.
With these points in mind, let’s dive into some of the top options available for advanced bassists.
Best 6-String Bass Guitars for Advanced Bassists
If you’re an advanced bassist looking to up your game, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve gathered a list of the best 6-string bass guitars that offer great sound and playability.
Check them out to find the perfect fit for your style and needs!
Yamaha TRBX174 BL Bass Guitar
This bass is a solid choice if you want a quality instrument at an affordable price.
- Great balance and playability.
- Versatile pickups for different styles.
- Attractive design with matching headstock.
- Limited included accessories like cables.
- May feel heavier than other options.
- Some might want additional tone control.
The Yamaha TRBX174 BL is known for its quality and affordable price.
It has a stylish black finish that stands out while keeping things sleek.
The bass feels comfortable in your hands, thanks to the well-designed body and bolt-on neck.
This makes it great for long playing sessions.
The P/J configured pickups give you a wide range of sounds to explore.
You can switch between split-coil and single-coil tones, which is ideal for different music styles.
Whether you’re playing rock, jazz, or anything in between, this bass can handle it.
While it offers great features, the TRBX174 BL doesn’t come with many extras.
If you’re expecting a cable or case in the box, you’ll need to buy those separately.
Some players might also notice the weight compared to lighter models.
Still, for its price and versatility, this bass is a great option for advanced players.
Ibanez GSR206B 6-String Bass
This bass guitar is a solid choice if you’re looking for a great mix of quality and affordability.
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Versatile tone with Phat II EQ
- Comfortable neck for smooth playability
- Some users reported needing frequent tuning adjustments
- Not as sturdy as higher-end models
- Lower notes can sometimes buzz under certain conditions
The Ibanez GSR206B is a popular choice among many bass players.
It has a sleek design and feels comfortable in your hands.
The lightweight body makes it easy to play for long periods without fatigue.
With features like the Phat II EQ, you can enjoy a wide range of sounds.
The pickups provide clear and full tones, making it suitable for various music styles.
Many have found it to be quite versatile for both practice and performance settings.
While this bass is well-regarded, some players note that it may require more frequent tuning than others.
If you want something that’s easy to play and offers great value, the Ibanez GSR206B is worth considering.
Ibanez GSR206 BK 6-String
If you’re looking for a solid 6-string bass that won’t break the bank, the Ibanez GSR206 BK is a great choice.
- Lightweight, making it easy to play for long sessions.
- Great sound quality with powerful pickups.
- Comfortable neck design that enhances playability.
- Some users might desire more tonal versatility.
- Limited color options may not suit everyone’s taste.
- May not have the advanced features of higher-end models.
This bass is well-known for its ease of play.
The GSR6 Maple neck feels smooth and quick.
Many players appreciate how comfortable it is during long practices.
Its lightweight body adds to the overall playability.
You can enjoy extended sessions without getting tired.
The Ibanez Dynamic H pickups offer clarity and full sound that is impressive for the price.
For those on a budget, the GSR206 offers great value.
You get a reliable instrument that performs well, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced players looking for a solid backup guitar.
If you want a bass that covers the essentials without emptying your wallet, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Ibanez SR306EB 6-String Bass
This bass offers great value with its thoughtful design, making it a solid choice for advanced players.
- Smooth and fast neck for comfortable play.
- Lightweight body that’s easy to handle.
- Quality electronics for a balanced sound.
- Some might find it less versatile for certain styles.
- Passive pickups may not satisfy all players.
- Limited options in terms of color finishes.
The Ibanez SR306EB stands out with its sleek design and comfortable playability.
The fast neck allows for quick movement, making it easier to navigate complex bass lines.
Many users appreciate how light the bass feels, reducing fatigue during long practice sessions or gigs.
Another aspect to note is the quality electronics.
The PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups deliver a crisp sound that complements various music styles.
You can definitely rely on this bass for its tone, even if it might not cater to specific genres as well as some higher-end models.
While the bass excels in several areas, it does have some drawbacks.
The passive pickups may not give the punch some players are looking for.
Also, the color choices are limited, which might not meet everyone’s taste.
Ibanez GSR Mikro 5-String
If you need a compact and lightweight bass guitar that still delivers a full sound, the Ibanez GSR Mikro is worth considering.
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Short scale neck makes it great for smaller hands
- Strong pickups for good sound quality
- Some users needed to adjust setup out of the box
- Smaller size may not suit everyone
- May require extra tuning or adjustments for best performance
This Ibanez 5-string bass guitar features a slim maple neck that enhances playability.
The compact body feels comfortable in your hands, making it a great option for long sessions or performances.
With a shorter 28.6″ scale, you can easily maneuver around the fretboard.
It’s designed with dynamic P pickups that offer excellent sound, perfect for both practice and gigs.
Many players appreciate the balance it provides, especially if they’ve used heavier instruments before.
However, a few customers mentioned needing a bit of setup work upon arrival.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right 6-string bass guitar can feel tricky.
Here are some key factors to think about.
1.
Size and Weight
Make sure the bass feels comfortable for you.
Try holding different models to see which one suits your playing style.
2.
Neck Profile
The neck should fit your hand well.
There are various shapes like C, D, or U. Pick one that feels right when you play.
3.
Material
The type of wood used affects the tone.
Common woods are maple, mahogany, and ash.
Each has its unique sound and feel.
| Material | Sound & Feel |
|---|---|
| Maple | Bright and clear |
| Mahogany | Warm and full |
| Ash | Balanced and punchy |
4.
Pickups
Different pickups deliver various tones.
Consider single-coil for a bright sound or humbuckers for a fuller tone.
5.
Price
Set a budget.
You can find great options at different price points.
More expensive doesn’t always mean better for your needs.
6.
Playability
Check the action (string height).
Lower action makes it easier to play but can cause buzzing.
Find a balance that works for you.
7.
Versatility
Think about the music styles you play.
A versatile bass can handle multiple genres.
Make sure it suits your musical tastes.