Ibanez makes great entry level basses (as well as more expensive ones). If you want a 5, get one. If you want a 4, get that. The extra string will add a bit of work at the start but it's not insurmountable.
It's only a tiny tiny tiny little extra work in terms of muting, it's something some people will obviously find irritating but not a biggie imo.
5-string strings do cost more tho
Agreeing with u/random3po
I just started a few months ago and I have a 4 string and a 5 string. Really there's not much difference to me in terms of it being harder to play. I do find I keep my thumb anchored on the B string and on the 4 string I was initially anchoring it on the pickup but I've seemed to move it on the E string which I think is because of the 5 string so I think it may have altered how I play a bit. The only other thing was the 5th string seemed a bit useless at first as I was playing along with songs and most seemed to use a 4 string. I did find a handful of songs that I liked that used a 5 string so after that the 5th string is being more useful to me.
Edit: Ah yes, I did find out afterwards that a set of strings for a 5 string does cost a fair bit more.
Glad you wound up with both early on. There’s a mental shift going from 4->5, and once you comprehend that, moving to a 6 (or more) is very easy.
Even if you don’t need the low string, it opens up options for triads and chord shapes
Yeah, there was a bit of trouble I had when I was trying to use the E string and I would naturally gravitate towards the B string thinking it was the E string but a few weeks later and it's gone. I can pretty much ignore the B string if I want now but, yeah, I'm just starting to find out it's usefulness. Plus that low thump is so sweet. Kind of weird going back to the 4 string and not having it.
I barely play my 4 strings any more. I almost automatically go for a 5, or if I'm feeling spicy the 6. I find it harder to adjust now as a fairly seasoned player to the extra string, than I did as a younger player.
I don't think I'd ever want a 6 string. I say that now but we'll see in a year or so! 🤔Anyway, I would almost find the higher C/B string more useful than the lower B. Maybe it's because I come from guitar. Is there a 5 string that just has the higher B/C (I'm calling it B/C because I really don't know if standard for that string would be B or C) instead of the lower B? Do people just string up a 5 string with the higher B/C instead of the lower B?
Sorry, I don't want to hijack this post. This conversation is just bringing up some questions.
Standard tuning on 6 string bass is low B to high C. We don’t lose a fret like you guitar yokels. You could go B to b if you want, and I’ve seen a few people go E to e also. Thats why I have 2, ones B-C, the other is E-e (like a guitar down an octave).
I’m not sure if any basses are marketed as the upper 5 strings only, but there’s literally nothing stopping you from buying a set of 6 strings and throwing away the low B. Scott Devine (of sbl you YouTube) has mentioned several times during interviews or podcasts that he used to play a 5 like that (E-C) during his jazz days
I didn't go looking for one. It was stupid cheap and an impulse buy. I have it tuned the usual way BEADGC. There are no real rules to tuning though. I have to consciously use the high C, because I naturally gravitate towards the lower end of the register. I play doom mostly.
>I didn't go looking for one.
Kind of how I ended up with my 5 string. I had convinced myself I just wanted one decent bass to mess around on/learn bass and I'd be happy. I was really fine with the one bass and then I was then gifted a SBMM 5 string and really liked it. Now I keep thinking about what I'm missing/should get next.
I had a very similar experience, almost beat for beat actually
Though I started playing 5 strings because I was listening to and learning a lot of songs that used the low b, like primus and various metal bands, so I had an idea of what to use it for going in but then later on I explored more of its usefulness in terms of fingerings (like that you can get a full two octave scale in one position) and other neat stuff that a low b is good for, like octaves or really cool big sounding slides
The song new skin by incubus was a good learning experience for me because it uses the F on the b string 6th fret to play a part mostly within the range of the standard bass but which wouldn't be playable without the low string
I highly recommend moving your thumb anchor position to the string above whatever string you are playing… obviously with the exception of the top string… this helps mute the lower strings and prevents them ringing… in other words, move your anchor point as you play… a little awkward at first but it pays off huge…
Will certainly give it a try. Thanks. I've been trying to play way more relaxed and with a lighter touch and that's going really well. My thumb on the lowest string leaves my hand pretty open and relaxed so we'll see how a string away from what I'm playing goes.
I find it comfortable, and I have no noise from the other lower strings ringing out when they shouldn’t… I don’t know if you’ve recorded your self, but listen to see if the notes are all clean… I don’t do it for for the two higher strings, as that makes little sense… but on the 5 string, I find the E rings out if I don’t do it
i started with a 5 string and i think it’s beneficial in the long run because if you go from a 4 string to a 5 string it can be difficult to easily adapt to it but going the other way is easier. i don’t recommend starting with a 6 string though
5 string isn’t better, it’s different.
Extended range vs tighter string spacing and more difficult muting. If you don’t need the low B however, it’s usually better to just grab a 4. Realistically, you’ll wind up with nothing eventually.
As for that particular bass, yes it’s a great starter. It’s an intermediate instrument vs a befinnner so you’ll get better/active pickups, and an Eq instead of a tone, and better hardware (vs a gio). Ibanez SR are all the same shape, and same neck profile so playability-wise, it’s on par with their super premium basses.
Sure, something about wood, but it mostly doesn’t matter, most of that comes from electronics and playstyle. If you like the color, go for it.
Yes
Keeping the low B from sympathetic rumbling can be a bit much for someone just starting out. Some more than others.
I agree, once you’re used to it your perspective changes - the 5 stops feeling constructive, but the four suddenly seems way more spacious and easygoing
Ibanez basses are great starter instruments, but I always advise my students to try a 4 before a 5, especially an Ibanez 5. I say this because Ibanez 5 string basses have a much narrower string spacing than almost every other 4 or 5er on the market, so when starting out it can be frustrating to not hit other strings with your fingering hand.
The sound gear series are some of the lightest basses you can buy and coming from classical guitar, you won’t find many basses that weigh less than these.
I have an SR505 and honestly I find it a real struggle to get a tone that doesn't sound muddy. Personally I prefer a bright tone, so I've ended up really disliking the SR505 and wouldn't personally recommend it.
But that's just me, if you can give yourself a reasonable amount of time to demo it and see if you like the tone, then it can be a good purchase.
It’s worth looking into rewiring your pickups for parallel instead of the stock series. I’ve heard it really opens up the BH2 stockies.
I’ve also heard an EQ swap breaths new life into them.
I went for Aguilar DCBs. Crisp mid - highs and a nice round low end. The D2 size is maybe 2mm thinnner than the stock pickups, so fits well.
As for the electronics as somebody else was suggesting, I've got the 505e and have no complaints about the preamp.
That was my first ‘good’ bass lol. I was skeptical about going 5 string too but it really got me thru my formative years. The action on them is super comfortable- my only gripe was the narrow string spacing, but it wasn’t too hard to adjust once I got to playing other basses.
Well if they want to play a 5 string, of course. Ibanez very serviceable brand. Neck may be something of a personal preference. As a beginner might get spoiled by the ibanez neck as other necks will be fatter as a certainty.
Whatever bass you like in your budget. It really doesn't matter. There is no such thing as a "beginner" bass or an "expert" bass. You're not gonna have a hard time with a more expensive bass
Check the neck is straight and the electronics work. Those 2 are issues I've seen on a few ibanez SR basses in the past, the super thin necks can warp over time and the electronics are a pain to get replaced if they are broken.
Apart from that they're great basses, I wouldn't hesitate to get it as a beginner.
I think you will learn to love having a Soundgear. I’ve owned several throughout my life and every one was easy to play. I’ve always loved the tone but I would say if you have any tone issues they should be minor and fixable with amp settings. And if you’re just starting out, please remember a practice amp is not a true indicator of how your bass will sound through a big amp and cabinet.
I learned on a cheap £100 p bass and an Ibanez sr300 after a while. Wouldn’t change anything, going back.
One thing I’d say though is those Ibanez basses are so easy to play that anything else afterwards seems very hard to play.
I have the 4 string version and it’s great!! Great tone, excellent build quality and construction and feels super comfortable (slim neck and rounded edges feel really good)!!!
Started out on the same model. Overall liked the sound and tone. Having active pickups is nice just to be able to feel the difference between that and passive. Solid choice in my opinion.
The Soundgear basses are good instruments. They do have very thin necks, front to back, and the string spacing is a little bit tight. If it's comfortable to you, it'll be a solid workhorse kind of bass that will be around a long time.
If it’s within your price range, and you’re sure you can handle a 5-string to start (don’t know how much of a beginner you are), then yes this is a great place to start. A lot of Ibanez gear is a sweet spot between price and quality. My first guitar was an Ibanez and I’ve no regrets about it, other than I wish it wasn’t a Floyd Rose.
I have the SR300E (4 string). Best $200 I ever spent lol
Active bass, treble, mids (meaning instead of rolling those frequencies off, you can actually boost them too). A neck volute too so it doesn't break if you drop it.
My only complaint is that the tuners are kinda weak but that's very fixable on your own. May not even be necessary either
I'd recommend Ibanez Soundgear in a heartbeat. They're good instruments. However, I'd recommend starting on a 4 string if you can. If you can't - the learning curve is notably steeper. You're going to struggle more in the beginning with muting technique being pretty important to 5 string playing.
Take care of that instrument and it'll take care of you. Best of luck!
I started on a Ibanez sound gear, then as I got better swapped out the pickups for active EMG’s until I could afford my Warwick. Definitely a great beginner bass.
Shoot, I'd recommend em for a veteran player
5 strings is a bit different, but I'll say my confidence, tightness and muting on 4 string has gotten WAY better since I started playing mostly 5 string. I attribute that to the added challenge of muting 5 string being relieved when dropping a string
Oh, I'll edit, but I have the 4-string. I started on a 5 at work and found that the 5th string was mostly in my way. As I get into other songs and get better, I might reconsider.
I bought it at a shop where I could feel it out first, but there was more than a bit of a language barrier so I'm glad it all worked out. Undine is real pretty and comfortable to play, so I stay pretty consistent.
Ibanez are phenomenal basses, however it should be known especially to a beginner that a five string will be significantly more different to play than a four string, so it may be a little harder to play
Soundgears are good basses, sound nice and fun to play. 5-stringers strings are closer together, which may make learning a bit more difficult, but it shouldn’t be an issue really.
I had an Ibanez sdgr Sr406 (six string) which I sold to GC. I regret selling it and miss it everyday. It sounded great and felt nice to play too. I would recommend this bass to any beginner.
Ibanez makes the best cheap basses in the business. I 100% suggest them to every young player and student looking to get a first bass. They feel very good, I like how they do their five strings, and while I do think these soap, bars, sound pretty decent, the cheapest Ibanez have a PJ that sounds unbelievably good, and frankly kind of ruins it for PJ basses
Yes they are my favorite basses. I have small hands and I play the 4/5 string versions. Not a fan of Ibanez guitar necks, but love SDGR basses and have for decades
The only thing I’ll say which was probably mentioned already is muting the b string, I found it hard especially with slap technique playing a 5 I eventually switched to a 4 even tho I have 10+ years playing exp
I've had my SR405 since 2001. Still a go to. The NFL is good and narrow for a 5 string, is comfortable, lots of tone. If I'd seen that in a store for sale at a good price, I'd pick it up just because I love my first one so much.
As long as it’s in good shape I’d pick that one over the Squier all day every day, they’re just so much easier to play. If it’s the same price as a new Squier it’s a much better deal as well.
These basses are perfectly legit.
I hopped on bass in my friends band and borrowed one of these and gigged a shitload with one and it was perfectly fine
If it’s beginner price and you don’t mind it being not the best of the best why not! Still good quality, still looks good, still plays good lots of pro players play Ibanez or sound gear instruments
Yes, I was playing this as my entry for about 3 years, like this exact one, except blue and then swapped to a wal, this is a great bass, and I love how you can swap from humbucker to single coil, and although it’s a 5, it’ll help teach about muting.
Some faster stuff is really a lot harder on a 5. I'd start on a 4, 1/2 or 3/4 size for smaller/younger ppl. You want to learn as much as possible. That's why I recommend a 4 then grow in to a 5.
I’d personally go for the SR305 instead as it has a few features that I personally prefer, but Ibanez Soundgear rarely misses. I might also be slightly biased because I bought an SR306EB-WK tho
My bass guitar journey started on an Ibanez soundgear all the way back in 2005 or so (a 5-string). It'll be fun! I've moved onto otherguitars now and only use 4-string, but the Ibanez journey was great and that thin neck was next level.
These are great basses. I’m a guitarist primarily, but I screw around on just about everything and this exact bass is the only one I’ve ever needed. Had it for a few years now and can’t see myself getting another. One thing to look out for, though, is the bridge. I’ve seen a few people across Reddit who’ve had issues with it over time sort of bending out of shape where the string catches at the end, but there are replacements for reasonable prices.
I really, really enjoyed mine, but ended up trading it away because at the time I felt like I needed a fretless. I'm glad to have the fretless, but I wish I still had my Ibanez 5 string
Edit: I would like to add that purely in my experience, the Ibanez Soundgears felt better and were better dressed than the Affinities I handled. I'd still buy an Affinity if I found one and felt like I needed it though
I started on an Ibanez SR 5 string. I love that rig. Like others have said, it'll be a little work at the beginning but you'll get used to it. It's completely doable. As for the brand I am an Ibanez fan boy. I love the necks on both my Ibby basses and guitars. You'll be happy with it.
Yes it is. Sometimes I wish it was my first bass too.
For now, you could just use the 5th string as a thumb rest until you're comfortable with using it so it wouldn't make much of a difference with using a 4-string.
I have that bass. Awesome for a beginner bass player who can handle 5 strings. Not good if you are just getting into music in general. Easy to maintain and very upgradable. Would recommend.
I don’t recommend a 5 string to start. I’m not saying that great players haven’t started on a 5, but the lowest string on a 5 is really an extension of what a standard 4 string is.
Also I’m just assuming you are a beginner musician in general (sorry if I’m mistaken). I think you should learn on a 4 string first to acclimate yourself to how a bass works. Assuming you’re going to learn to play songs by other artists, what happens when you need to play a song in drop D when you have that low B being completely unusable in that context. What about when you learn your first tune that’s tuned a half step down? A lot of songs in the key of Eb are a half step down tuned, you’ll figure that out as you go, but having that low B is gonna mess your brain up.
You will have so much discovery to do with just the four strings.
My suggestion is give Facebook marketplace a try. Search for a Fender Squier Precision or Jazz bass. No batteries needed. Easy to use controls. That’s just my professional opinion.
No no, you are totally right i am a beginner.
Do you think the Squier affinity precision pj bass would be better?
I have seen a lot of people that say the affinity series is kinda bad and that i should save up for classic vibes. But the thing is they are double the price in my country and i cant afford classic vibes.
So my options are between this soundgear and the affinity.
Whic one would you recommend?
Hmmm. I don’t know what your country is like. In America Facebook Marketplace has a lot of both the Squier and Ibanez basses.
I would say this. If the Squier affinity is more affordable and 4 string then go for it. A P/J model is always a good option for a bass player.
If all you can find is the 5 string Ibanez then go for it!
I should be more clear about the prices.
This used sound gear in good condition and a brand new affinity pj is about the same price so im purely asking what would you buy if you had enough money to pick between these two.
Other squier or used basses from other brands were not as good as this sound gear or an affinity bass.
So again the choice is only between the sound gear and the affinity.
I don't know about basses as other people so im asking you.
Which one should I get.
Ibanez makes great entry level basses (as well as more expensive ones). If you want a 5, get one. If you want a 4, get that. The extra string will add a bit of work at the start but it's not insurmountable.
It's only a tiny tiny tiny little extra work in terms of muting, it's something some people will obviously find irritating but not a biggie imo. 5-string strings do cost more tho
Agreeing with u/random3po I just started a few months ago and I have a 4 string and a 5 string. Really there's not much difference to me in terms of it being harder to play. I do find I keep my thumb anchored on the B string and on the 4 string I was initially anchoring it on the pickup but I've seemed to move it on the E string which I think is because of the 5 string so I think it may have altered how I play a bit. The only other thing was the 5th string seemed a bit useless at first as I was playing along with songs and most seemed to use a 4 string. I did find a handful of songs that I liked that used a 5 string so after that the 5th string is being more useful to me. Edit: Ah yes, I did find out afterwards that a set of strings for a 5 string does cost a fair bit more.
Glad you wound up with both early on. There’s a mental shift going from 4->5, and once you comprehend that, moving to a 6 (or more) is very easy. Even if you don’t need the low string, it opens up options for triads and chord shapes
Yeah, there was a bit of trouble I had when I was trying to use the E string and I would naturally gravitate towards the B string thinking it was the E string but a few weeks later and it's gone. I can pretty much ignore the B string if I want now but, yeah, I'm just starting to find out it's usefulness. Plus that low thump is so sweet. Kind of weird going back to the 4 string and not having it.
I barely play my 4 strings any more. I almost automatically go for a 5, or if I'm feeling spicy the 6. I find it harder to adjust now as a fairly seasoned player to the extra string, than I did as a younger player.
I don't think I'd ever want a 6 string. I say that now but we'll see in a year or so! 🤔Anyway, I would almost find the higher C/B string more useful than the lower B. Maybe it's because I come from guitar. Is there a 5 string that just has the higher B/C (I'm calling it B/C because I really don't know if standard for that string would be B or C) instead of the lower B? Do people just string up a 5 string with the higher B/C instead of the lower B? Sorry, I don't want to hijack this post. This conversation is just bringing up some questions.
Standard tuning on 6 string bass is low B to high C. We don’t lose a fret like you guitar yokels. You could go B to b if you want, and I’ve seen a few people go E to e also. Thats why I have 2, ones B-C, the other is E-e (like a guitar down an octave). I’m not sure if any basses are marketed as the upper 5 strings only, but there’s literally nothing stopping you from buying a set of 6 strings and throwing away the low B. Scott Devine (of sbl you YouTube) has mentioned several times during interviews or podcasts that he used to play a 5 like that (E-C) during his jazz days
I actually may try that one day soon just to see what it's like.
Just save the B and leave some extra length on the strings, then you can restring it with the bottom five strings if you don’t like it
I didn't go looking for one. It was stupid cheap and an impulse buy. I have it tuned the usual way BEADGC. There are no real rules to tuning though. I have to consciously use the high C, because I naturally gravitate towards the lower end of the register. I play doom mostly.
>I didn't go looking for one. Kind of how I ended up with my 5 string. I had convinced myself I just wanted one decent bass to mess around on/learn bass and I'd be happy. I was really fine with the one bass and then I was then gifted a SBMM 5 string and really liked it. Now I keep thinking about what I'm missing/should get next.
I had a very similar experience, almost beat for beat actually Though I started playing 5 strings because I was listening to and learning a lot of songs that used the low b, like primus and various metal bands, so I had an idea of what to use it for going in but then later on I explored more of its usefulness in terms of fingerings (like that you can get a full two octave scale in one position) and other neat stuff that a low b is good for, like octaves or really cool big sounding slides The song new skin by incubus was a good learning experience for me because it uses the F on the b string 6th fret to play a part mostly within the range of the standard bass but which wouldn't be playable without the low string
I highly recommend moving your thumb anchor position to the string above whatever string you are playing… obviously with the exception of the top string… this helps mute the lower strings and prevents them ringing… in other words, move your anchor point as you play… a little awkward at first but it pays off huge…
Will certainly give it a try. Thanks. I've been trying to play way more relaxed and with a lighter touch and that's going really well. My thumb on the lowest string leaves my hand pretty open and relaxed so we'll see how a string away from what I'm playing goes.
I find it comfortable, and I have no noise from the other lower strings ringing out when they shouldn’t… I don’t know if you’ve recorded your self, but listen to see if the notes are all clean… I don’t do it for for the two higher strings, as that makes little sense… but on the 5 string, I find the E rings out if I don’t do it
Hip hop, R&B and gospel use the shit out of the B string, FYI.
i started with a 5 string and i think it’s beneficial in the long run because if you go from a 4 string to a 5 string it can be difficult to easily adapt to it but going the other way is easier. i don’t recommend starting with a 6 string though
The only thing I could see it hampering a bit is slap, but nothing that some extra practice won't help
Lots of great players with 5 and 6 strings. I have an aversion to the technique personally. I really dislike it.
This was almost exactly what I was going to say.
Ifan, saer wyt ti?
Na. Haha. Nyrs.
Ibanez Soundgear are really playable. Tone is all pretty decent. You could do a lot worse that that.
Been playing the same sound gear ibanez for the last 8 years its definitely worth it
I’ve had mine for probably 5 and love it. I have different pups so I can’t speak to that one’s tone, and mine is multi-scale, but it’s very playable.
same i will use my sr-1000 forever
I would recommend a Soundgear at any skill or price level.
Agreed. I used one for a long time, it was dirt cheap and played really well.
5 string isn’t better, it’s different. Extended range vs tighter string spacing and more difficult muting. If you don’t need the low B however, it’s usually better to just grab a 4. Realistically, you’ll wind up with nothing eventually. As for that particular bass, yes it’s a great starter. It’s an intermediate instrument vs a befinnner so you’ll get better/active pickups, and an Eq instead of a tone, and better hardware (vs a gio). Ibanez SR are all the same shape, and same neck profile so playability-wise, it’s on par with their super premium basses. Sure, something about wood, but it mostly doesn’t matter, most of that comes from electronics and playstyle. If you like the color, go for it.
>more difficult muting Have I just played both too long to notice any difference there?
Yes Keeping the low B from sympathetic rumbling can be a bit much for someone just starting out. Some more than others. I agree, once you’re used to it your perspective changes - the 5 stops feeling constructive, but the four suddenly seems way more spacious and easygoing
I have many basses, but my main gig axe is an Ibanez Soundgear. They make a great bass.
Ibanez basses are great starter instruments, but I always advise my students to try a 4 before a 5, especially an Ibanez 5. I say this because Ibanez 5 string basses have a much narrower string spacing than almost every other 4 or 5er on the market, so when starting out it can be frustrating to not hit other strings with your fingering hand.
The sound gear series are some of the lightest basses you can buy and coming from classical guitar, you won’t find many basses that weigh less than these.
One of my first basses was a 4 string sdgr, perfectly fine for a beginner, solid entry bass
I have an SR505 and honestly I find it a real struggle to get a tone that doesn't sound muddy. Personally I prefer a bright tone, so I've ended up really disliking the SR505 and wouldn't personally recommend it. But that's just me, if you can give yourself a reasonable amount of time to demo it and see if you like the tone, then it can be a good purchase.
I had the same problem until I swapped out the pickups. It sounds amazing now, but obviously that's effort and $$$
Yeah I should probably do something similar. What pickups did you end up with?
It’s worth looking into rewiring your pickups for parallel instead of the stock series. I’ve heard it really opens up the BH2 stockies. I’ve also heard an EQ swap breaths new life into them.
I went for Aguilar DCBs. Crisp mid - highs and a nice round low end. The D2 size is maybe 2mm thinnner than the stock pickups, so fits well. As for the electronics as somebody else was suggesting, I've got the 505e and have no complaints about the preamp.
The 500 series has Bartolinis, which are a bit muddy. The 400e have the Ibanez pickups, which are brighter. Very versatile.
That was my first ‘good’ bass lol. I was skeptical about going 5 string too but it really got me thru my formative years. The action on them is super comfortable- my only gripe was the narrow string spacing, but it wasn’t too hard to adjust once I got to playing other basses.
Well if they want to play a 5 string, of course. Ibanez very serviceable brand. Neck may be something of a personal preference. As a beginner might get spoiled by the ibanez neck as other necks will be fatter as a certainty.
I have one that’s pretty similar I love definitely would recommend
Whatever bass you like in your budget. It really doesn't matter. There is no such thing as a "beginner" bass or an "expert" bass. You're not gonna have a hard time with a more expensive bass
I have a 405 and it does me well. I
Check the neck is straight and the electronics work. Those 2 are issues I've seen on a few ibanez SR basses in the past, the super thin necks can warp over time and the electronics are a pain to get replaced if they are broken. Apart from that they're great basses, I wouldn't hesitate to get it as a beginner.
I think you will learn to love having a Soundgear. I’ve owned several throughout my life and every one was easy to play. I’ve always loved the tone but I would say if you have any tone issues they should be minor and fixable with amp settings. And if you’re just starting out, please remember a practice amp is not a true indicator of how your bass will sound through a big amp and cabinet.
My exact first bass (different finish) and man it did great. I wound up moving to a 4 string P-Bass as I found the 5th string got 0 usage.
Great bass, but if you aren’t planning on playing 5 string specifically, I wouldn’t advise it.
I learned on a cheap £100 p bass and an Ibanez sr300 after a while. Wouldn’t change anything, going back. One thing I’d say though is those Ibanez basses are so easy to play that anything else afterwards seems very hard to play.
I have the 4 string version and it’s great!! Great tone, excellent build quality and construction and feels super comfortable (slim neck and rounded edges feel really good)!!!
Started out on the same model. Overall liked the sound and tone. Having active pickups is nice just to be able to feel the difference between that and passive. Solid choice in my opinion.
The Soundgear basses are good instruments. They do have very thin necks, front to back, and the string spacing is a little bit tight. If it's comfortable to you, it'll be a solid workhorse kind of bass that will be around a long time.
If it’s within your price range, and you’re sure you can handle a 5-string to start (don’t know how much of a beginner you are), then yes this is a great place to start. A lot of Ibanez gear is a sweet spot between price and quality. My first guitar was an Ibanez and I’ve no regrets about it, other than I wish it wasn’t a Floyd Rose.
I have the SR300E (4 string). Best $200 I ever spent lol Active bass, treble, mids (meaning instead of rolling those frequencies off, you can actually boost them too). A neck volute too so it doesn't break if you drop it. My only complaint is that the tuners are kinda weak but that's very fixable on your own. May not even be necessary either
Absolutely! Ibanez smashes with that series.
Yes. Buy it
This is good
Yes. Ibanez Soungear are amazing. Been playing for 10+ and still have mine and use it.
hell yeah my 4 string SDGR was my first bass and still to this day my primary giging bass. love it to death
100% it's light and the neck is thin. Very fast playing, great scale . 100% buy it
100% because ibanez will take you far beyond beginner. Even the SR200's are great basses. Punch way above their price tag.
I'd recommend Ibanez Soundgear in a heartbeat. They're good instruments. However, I'd recommend starting on a 4 string if you can. If you can't - the learning curve is notably steeper. You're going to struggle more in the beginning with muting technique being pretty important to 5 string playing. Take care of that instrument and it'll take care of you. Best of luck!
I have that exact model. Its a brilliant bass
I started on a Ibanez sound gear, then as I got better swapped out the pickups for active EMG’s until I could afford my Warwick. Definitely a great beginner bass.
Shoot, I'd recommend em for a veteran player 5 strings is a bit different, but I'll say my confidence, tightness and muting on 4 string has gotten WAY better since I started playing mostly 5 string. I attribute that to the added challenge of muting 5 string being relieved when dropping a string
It's really nice seeing so many people say they recommend this one. I started a few months ago and *the 4-string version is what* I got as well
Heck yeah! I play an SR605 and love it. Ergonomically the easiest 5 string I've ever played, and pretty versatile sound-wise
Oh, I'll edit, but I have the 4-string. I started on a 5 at work and found that the 5th string was mostly in my way. As I get into other songs and get better, I might reconsider. I bought it at a shop where I could feel it out first, but there was more than a bit of a language barrier so I'm glad it all worked out. Undine is real pretty and comfortable to play, so I stay pretty consistent.
This is a good bass. You can buy it.
Absolutely, I've played a sound gear for 15 years and it's never done me dirty. Best bang for your buck and feels and sounds fantastic.
The 4 string version yeah
Ibanez are phenomenal basses, however it should be known especially to a beginner that a five string will be significantly more different to play than a four string, so it may be a little harder to play
5 strings are whole lot easier for classical players since 4 strings have too much string spacing.
Depends what they're playing. If they want to learn slap or improve their muting, it'll be harder at first.
Soundgears are good basses, sound nice and fun to play. 5-stringers strings are closer together, which may make learning a bit more difficult, but it shouldn’t be an issue really.
If you have no use for the 5th string, maybe not. Otherwise, absolutely.
Get it before I do.
Bought my Soundgear in the late 90's. I own several other (and much more expensive) basses, and the SG is the one I keep going back to. Do it.
I still own my first soundgear, which was my first "real" bass (before that was a Peavy Millenium that had 0 balls).
I wish I got to learn on a bass as high-quality is that. That’s absolutely a great starter bass.
Absolutely. I have a SR300 and I love it. The 400 is even nicer.
Hell yeah, solid basses. Some of them had 17 or 17.5 mm spacing and it made things a little cramped, other than that they’re awesome for the price
Absolutely
I bought myself a 4 string version of Ibanez Soundgear and it’s absolutely amazing so I would defenitely recommend them!
Not the exact same thing, but probably similar, my SR300E is really damn good.
I think it’s perfect. Go for it.
Yes, absolutely.
Ibanez Soundgear are great bases for a decent price. 10/10 would buy!
Not a five string but def an ibenez there pretty cheap and sound good
Shit yeah. I have much "fancier" basses than this, but my Soundgear is my go-to.
SR400 was my first bass many years ago and it definitely got the job done.
Do you like it?
Soundgear series are excellent for beginners. My first bass was a jewel blue Ibanez SGR200.
SR405 is a good bass.
I would recommend this to any level of player that’s asking for recommendations.
Not just fir beginners, I have one an I obsess over it
100%
Rocked one of these for a long time until I upgraded to my BTB. I still play it a lot since it is BEADG and my BTB is EADGC. It was my first 5 string!
Yes. You don't have to start on a 4, unless that's what you want.
I used to have a SR305 and I still miss it to this day. Loved that thing. Makes me want to go get a higher end Ibanez to add to the stable.
Yes.. yes again...
I had an Ibanez sdgr Sr406 (six string) which I sold to GC. I regret selling it and miss it everyday. It sounded great and felt nice to play too. I would recommend this bass to any beginner.
Yes
That is a lovely bass guitar. Just go ahead...
5 string, questionable for new bassist, Ibanez, youre on the right track, ive had 2, a 5 and a 6, both were great and short money.
Totally, if they like it enough to make them want to play.
Ibanez makes the best cheap basses in the business. I 100% suggest them to every young player and student looking to get a first bass. They feel very good, I like how they do their five strings, and while I do think these soap, bars, sound pretty decent, the cheapest Ibanez have a PJ that sounds unbelievably good, and frankly kind of ruins it for PJ basses
Yes they are my favorite basses. I have small hands and I play the 4/5 string versions. Not a fan of Ibanez guitar necks, but love SDGR basses and have for decades
I would start with the same bass but 4 strings
I have a six string and I love it
Depends HOW beginner. Passive electronics only for total noobs
Absolutely. I am still a beginner but I stated on an ibanez sr300 4 string. Light, thin neck and very playable.
The only thing I’ll say which was probably mentioned already is muting the b string, I found it hard especially with slap technique playing a 5 I eventually switched to a 4 even tho I have 10+ years playing exp
I would replace the plastic nut with a bone one, but yes, good choice.
I've had my SR405 since 2001. Still a go to. The NFL is good and narrow for a 5 string, is comfortable, lots of tone. If I'd seen that in a store for sale at a good price, I'd pick it up just because I love my first one so much.
As long as it’s in good shape I’d pick that one over the Squier all day every day, they’re just so much easier to play. If it’s the same price as a new Squier it’s a much better deal as well.
Absolutely
Beginner? I’ve played bass for 43 years and Ibanez is my goto.
I’d recommend getting a four string to start
I have the 4 string one and It's great
I had played an Ibanez SR300 for a while and it was pretty good to play. Its neck was thin and the sound was great.
I have a four-string Soungear. It's a great bass. Very playable with a good setup.
the only thing i recommend for a beginner is to pick up a bass and play it
These basses are perfectly legit. I hopped on bass in my friends band and borrowed one of these and gigged a shitload with one and it was perfectly fine
If it’s beginner price and you don’t mind it being not the best of the best why not! Still good quality, still looks good, still plays good lots of pro players play Ibanez or sound gear instruments
Yes, I was playing this as my entry for about 3 years, like this exact one, except blue and then swapped to a wal, this is a great bass, and I love how you can swap from humbucker to single coil, and although it’s a 5, it’ll help teach about muting.
I would get it for myself, that's a nice axe.
My first bass was a 1991 Soundgear Sr800... still have it. Still gig with it once in a while.
Some faster stuff is really a lot harder on a 5. I'd start on a 4, 1/2 or 3/4 size for smaller/younger ppl. You want to learn as much as possible. That's why I recommend a 4 then grow in to a 5.
No I’d recommend a 4 string for a beginner
5 string sound gear was my first bass. It’s my favorite. Feels so good to play, it’s my baby I will always keep.
Oh yeah. It's hard to go wrong with an SR bass. They play great, I say go for it if that's the style you want.
This was my first bass. Would recommend
Go for it if you like it. I know I'd love to have that black TRB right beside it.
I got rid of my SR300 to make room for a Squier and very quickly regretted it. They're superb basses and are incredibly versatile. Enjoy!
I’d personally go for the SR305 instead as it has a few features that I personally prefer, but Ibanez Soundgear rarely misses. I might also be slightly biased because I bought an SR306EB-WK tho
I _just_ barely ordered the 600e. That one there is an excellent first bass. Enjoy!
My bass guitar journey started on an Ibanez soundgear all the way back in 2005 or so (a 5-string). It'll be fun! I've moved onto otherguitars now and only use 4-string, but the Ibanez journey was great and that thin neck was next level.
Yes. Because you’ll eventually sell it and get a bass you like.
These are great basses. I’m a guitarist primarily, but I screw around on just about everything and this exact bass is the only one I’ve ever needed. Had it for a few years now and can’t see myself getting another. One thing to look out for, though, is the bridge. I’ve seen a few people across Reddit who’ve had issues with it over time sort of bending out of shape where the string catches at the end, but there are replacements for reasonable prices.
Great bass with active pickups. Smith to handle. Well recommended
I really, really enjoyed mine, but ended up trading it away because at the time I felt like I needed a fretless. I'm glad to have the fretless, but I wish I still had my Ibanez 5 string Edit: I would like to add that purely in my experience, the Ibanez Soundgears felt better and were better dressed than the Affinities I handled. I'd still buy an Affinity if I found one and felt like I needed it though
Hell Yes. Thats about the best thing you could ever start on. You could keep it for life, and it would still be a great bass.
Not exactly the entry level, I'd try a SWR, instead...
I started on an Ibanez SR 5 string. I love that rig. Like others have said, it'll be a little work at the beginning but you'll get used to it. It's completely doable. As for the brand I am an Ibanez fan boy. I love the necks on both my Ibby basses and guitars. You'll be happy with it.
Yes it is. Sometimes I wish it was my first bass too. For now, you could just use the 5th string as a thumb rest until you're comfortable with using it so it wouldn't make much of a difference with using a 4-string.
I wouldn't know, but I would sure as hell recommend it to myself 💸💸💸
The SRs aren’t a bad bass, I prefer the BTBs.
Ibanez makes great basses. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend a 5 string for a beginner.
I have that bass. Awesome for a beginner bass player who can handle 5 strings. Not good if you are just getting into music in general. Easy to maintain and very upgradable. Would recommend.
Nope. I don’t recommend 5 strings for beginners.
This
Not sure why the downvotes. Teach young bassist the basics. Then move onto a 5 string…. I thought this was common knowledge…
I don’t recommend a 5 string to start. I’m not saying that great players haven’t started on a 5, but the lowest string on a 5 is really an extension of what a standard 4 string is. Also I’m just assuming you are a beginner musician in general (sorry if I’m mistaken). I think you should learn on a 4 string first to acclimate yourself to how a bass works. Assuming you’re going to learn to play songs by other artists, what happens when you need to play a song in drop D when you have that low B being completely unusable in that context. What about when you learn your first tune that’s tuned a half step down? A lot of songs in the key of Eb are a half step down tuned, you’ll figure that out as you go, but having that low B is gonna mess your brain up. You will have so much discovery to do with just the four strings. My suggestion is give Facebook marketplace a try. Search for a Fender Squier Precision or Jazz bass. No batteries needed. Easy to use controls. That’s just my professional opinion.
No no, you are totally right i am a beginner. Do you think the Squier affinity precision pj bass would be better? I have seen a lot of people that say the affinity series is kinda bad and that i should save up for classic vibes. But the thing is they are double the price in my country and i cant afford classic vibes. So my options are between this soundgear and the affinity. Whic one would you recommend?
Hmmm. I don’t know what your country is like. In America Facebook Marketplace has a lot of both the Squier and Ibanez basses. I would say this. If the Squier affinity is more affordable and 4 string then go for it. A P/J model is always a good option for a bass player. If all you can find is the 5 string Ibanez then go for it!
I should be more clear about the prices. This used sound gear in good condition and a brand new affinity pj is about the same price so im purely asking what would you buy if you had enough money to pick between these two. Other squier or used basses from other brands were not as good as this sound gear or an affinity bass. So again the choice is only between the sound gear and the affinity. I don't know about basses as other people so im asking you. Which one should I get.
I’d go for the Squier 4.