Should I Learn Bass or Guitar? (+ Best Online Guitar Course)

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When it comes to the decision of whether you should learn bass or learn guitar, there is no easy answer. It all depends on a variety of factors including cost, skill level, and genre considerations as well as practicality and personal preference. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at these topics to help guide your decision when asking yourself “should I learn bass or guitar?” From pros and cons comparisons between the two instruments to weighing up how much each instrument would cost you, we have got everything covered so that by the end of this article you can make an informed choice about which one is right for you!

Before you discover “should I learn bass or guitar?”, check out our team’s favorite online bass courses and online guitar courses below:

Best Online Bass Course

  1. Bass Masterclass: How to Learn Bass Guitar ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 4.5/5.0 – 2,864 ratings – 20,971 students
  2. Beginner Bass Guitar Lessons: Learn to Play Bass Guitar ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 4.8/5.0

Best Online Guitar Course

  1. Complete Guitar Lessons System: The Best Way to Learn Guitar ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 4.6/5.0 – 37,913 ratings – 266,357 students
  2. Ultimate Beginner Guitar Masterclass ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 4.7/5.0 – 6,724 ratings – 83,956 students
  3. Learn Guitar in 21 Days ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 4.5/5.0 – 3,101 ratings – 88,729 students
Best Online Guitar Course - Should I Learn Bass or Guitar

Table of Contents:

Bass vs Guitar: Pros and Cons

Advantages of Learning Bass:

Bass is an essential instrument in many genres, from jazz to rock. It provides the foundation for a song’s rhythm and melody, allowing other instruments to build on top of it. Bass players are also often asked to provide backing vocals or harmony lines. Additionally, bassists can learn more quickly than guitarists because they have fewer strings and notes to master.

Advantages of Learning Guitar:

Guitar is one of the most popular instruments around the world due to its versatility across multiple genres such as folk, blues, classical and pop music. Guitars come in different shapes and sizes so you can find one that fits your body type perfectly. Additionally, there are lots of resources available online for learning guitar which makes it easier for beginners who don’t have access to private lessons or classes.

Disadvantages of Learning Bass:

How long does it take to learn bass guitar? Bass requires a lot more practice time than guitar since there are fewer notes available on the fretboard compared with guitars with six strings or more. This means that bassists need to be able to play faster and develop greater dexterity in order to keep up with other musicians playing at higher speeds. Additionally, some people may find it difficult initially due to their lack of experience with stringed instruments like basses or guitars before starting out on this journey into music-making.

Disadvantages of Learning Guitar:

How long does it take to learn guitar? Learning guitar can take longer than learning bass since there are typically more strings (six) and frets (twenty-two). This means that you’ll need more time dedicated to mastering chords and scales before being able to move on to advanced techniques like soloing or improvisation skillsets needed by professional musicians today. Furthermore, depending on what genre you’re interested in playing, finding suitable teachers might be challenging if not impossible as certain styles require specialized knowledge only found within specific circles.

Overall, both bass and guitar have their own pros and cons that should be considered when deciding which instrument to learn. However, the cost of instruments, lessons, and accessories is an important factor in making a decision as well.

Key Takeaway: The choice between bass and guitar depends on the individual’s goals, interests, and skill level. Bass is quicker to learn due to fewer strings and notes but requires more practice time. Guitar has a wider range of genres but can take longer to learn with its additional strings and frets.

Cost Comparison

The cost of learning bass or guitar can vary greatly depending on the type of instrument, lessons, and accessories you choose.

Cost of Instruments

When it comes to instruments, electric guitars tend to be more expensive than electric basses. Electric guitars typically range from $100-$2000 while electric basses usually start at around $200 and can go up to around $3000 for higher-end models. Acoustic guitars are generally cheaper than acoustic basses, with prices ranging from about $50-$1000 for a decent-quality instrument. Acoustic basses usually start at around $300 and can reach upwards of several thousand dollars for professional-grade models.

Cost of Lessons

Lessons are another important factor when considering the cost associated with learning either instrument. Private lessons are typically more expensive than group classes but offer more personalized instruction tailored specifically to your needs as a musician. Group classes often have lower costs per hour but may not provide as much individual attention as private lessons do. The cost of private or group lessons will depend on the instructor’s experience level and location; however, most instructors charge between $20-$60 per hour regardless if they teach in person or online via video chat platforms like Skype or Zoom.

Cost of Accessories

Finally, there is also the cost associated with accessories such as strings, picks, straps, etc., which should also be taken into consideration when deciding whether to learn guitar or bass. Strings for both instruments range in price from about $5-$30 depending on brand and gauge size; however, pickups (for electric instruments) can get quite pricey ranging anywhere from several hundred dollars up to thousands depending on make/model/quality desired by the player. Picks come in various shapes/sizes/materials so prices will vary based on preference; however, they generally range from just a few cents each up to several dollars apiece for specialty materials like tortoiseshell, etc. Straps run anywhere between five bucks all the way up into hundreds depending again upon the material used (leather vs synthetic).

Comparing the cost of learning bass or guitar can be a daunting task. However, it’s important to consider not only the initial investment but also the time commitment required for each instrument when making your decision. Let’s now look at skill level considerations to help you decide which instrument is best for you.

Key Takeaway: The cost of learning bass or guitar varies greatly depending on the type of instrument, lessons, and accessories chosen. Private lessons are typically more expensive than group classes but offer more personalized instruction. Accessories such as strings, picks, and straps can range from a few cents to several hundred dollars.

Skill Level Considerations

How hard is it to learn guitar? When it comes to learning bass or guitar, the technical difficulty for beginners and advanced players can vary greatly. For beginners, both instruments require a basic understanding of music theory and the ability to read tablature or sheet music. However, the bass is often considered easier for newbies, since there are fewer strings than on a guitar and chords, tend to be simpler in construction. Additionally, some argue that playing bass requires less finger dexterity than playing guitar.

Advanced players may find that either instrument offers plenty of challenges depending on their goals as musicians. While certain genres like jazz require complex chord voicings on both instruments, others such as rock focus more heavily on riffs and solos which may be easier to play with one instrument over another. Ultimately, this will depend largely upon personal preference when it comes to musical style and technique.

The time commitment required to learn each instrument also varies based on skill level. Beginners should expect at least an hour per day of practice if they want consistent progress, while advanced players may need two hours or more daily in order to stay sharp with their skill set. Furthermore, those who wish to become professional musicians should plan on dedicating several hours per day in order to hone their craftsmanship regardless of whether they choose bass or guitar as their primary instrument.

Overall, it is important to consider your skill level when deciding between bass and guitar. With a better understanding of the technical difficulty for beginners and advanced players as well as the time commitment required to learn each instrument, you can move on to genre considerations in order to make an informed decision.

Ready to rock? Deciding between bass or guitar? Don’t fret, just pick the one that speaks to you and commit some time – it’ll be music to your ears. #BassOrGuitar #MusicLovers

Genre Considerations

The bass guitar is a versatile instrument, and it can be used in many different genres. Some of the most popular genres for bassists include rock, funk, jazz, blues, metal, punk, and reggae. In each genre, there are unique techniques that help to define the sound of the music. For example, in rock music, a common technique is playing eighth notes on the downbeat while adding accents on certain beats. This creates an energetic groove that drives the song forward.

Popular Genres for Guitarists: Similarly to bass guitar players, electric guitar players have access to a wide range of musical styles including rock, funk, jazz blues metal punk, and reggae as well as country western classical flamenco folk, and more. Electric guitars are often associated with lead melodies or solos but they can also provide rhythm accompaniment depending on how they’re played. For instance in pop songs strumming chords with palm muting provides a strong rhythmic foundation while single note lines add melodic interest over top.

Genre considerations are an important factor to consider when deciding between bass and guitar. It’s also worth looking at practicality considerations such as portability, accessibility, and resources available for each instrument.

Key Takeaway: Bass and guitar players have access to a wide range of musical genres, including rock, funk, jazz blues metal punk reggae country western classical flamenco folk, and more. Each genre has unique techniques that help define the sound of the music.

Practicality Considerations

Portability and Ease of Transporting the Instrument: When deciding between bass or guitar, portability is an important factor to consider. Bass guitars tend to be larger than their electric counterparts, making them more difficult to transport. If you plan on taking your instrument with you on the road or traveling frequently, a smaller-bodied guitar may be preferable. On the other hand, if size isn’t an issue for you and you prefer a bigger sound from your instrument, then bass might be the better option.

Accessibility to Practice Spaces or Studios: Accessibility is another key consideration when choosing between bass or guitar. Depending on where you live and what resources are available in your area, one type of instrument may have greater access than another. For example, if there are no nearby music studios that offer lessons specifically for bassists but plenty of places offering guitar instruction then learning guitar would likely make more sense for someone who wants to learn in person with a teacher rather than online tutorials alone.

Lastly, it’s important to think about how much support each type of instrument has within its community before making a decision between bass or guitar. There are many online forums dedicated solely to either style which can provide invaluable advice as well as helpful tips from experienced players who have been playing these instruments for years. Additionally, certain genres will also lend themselves better towards one type over another so it’s worth researching this aspect too before committing yourself fully into learning either style exclusively.

When considering practicality, it is important to consider the portability of the instrument, accessibility to practice spaces and studios, as well as available resources and support networks. Next we will discuss personal preference considerations that can help you decide if bass or guitar is right for you.

Key Takeaway: When deciding between bass or guitar, it’s important to consider portability, accessibility to practice spaces/studios, and the support each type of instrument has within its community.

Personal Preference Considerations

When deciding between bass or guitar, it’s important to consider your musical goals and objectives. Are you looking for an instrument that can provide a strong foundation in rhythm? Or are you more interested in lead playing? Bass is often seen as the backbone of any band, providing the low-end support necessary to keep the groove going. On the other hand, guitarists tend to be more focused on soloing and improvisation.

Aesthetic Preferences (Sound, Look, Feel): Another factor to consider when choosing between bass or guitar is aesthetic preferences. Do you prefer a bright sound with lots of clarity? Or do you like something warmer and rounder? The same goes for looks – some people prefer sleek modern designs while others may go for vintage vibes. And don’t forget about feel – how does each instrument feel in your hands? Is one easier than the other to play?

Finally, comfort level should also be taken into account when selecting between bass or guitar. How comfortable are you with each instrument’s tuning system and fretboard layout? Are there certain techniques that come easier on one than on another? It is important to find an instrument that fits your style so that learning can be enjoyable rather than frustrating.

When it comes to learning bass or guitar, the most important consideration is a personal preference. It’s essential to weigh up your musical goals and objectives, as well as aesthetic preferences and comfort level with each instrument before making a decision. Now let’s move on to exploring the pros and cons of both instruments for a final recommendation.

Torn between bass or guitar? Consider your musical goals, aesthetic preferences, and comfort level before making a decision. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be music to your ears. #bassorGuitar #MusicGoals #Aesthetic

Conclusion – Should I Learn Bass or Guitar?

When it comes to deciding between bass and guitar, there are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration. Cost, skill level, genre preferences, practicality considerations, and personal preference all play an important role in the decision-making process.

Summary of Pros and Cons: Both instruments have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. For example, learning bass is typically easier for beginners due to its simpler technique but can be difficult to transport due to its size. On the other hand, guitars are more portable but require more technical proficiency from players who want to master them. Additionally, each instrument has its own popular genres associated with it – rock for guitarists and jazz or funk for bassists – though both instruments offer versatility across different styles of music if you’re willing to put in the work.

Practicality considerations such as portability and access to practice spaces should also be taken into account when making your decision. Electric guitars are easy enough to carry around on your back or in a case, but acoustic guitars may require additional transportation equipment like stands or cases depending on where you plan on playing them. Bassists will need amplifiers regardless of whether they’re playing electric or upright basses, so this should factor into cost calculations when making the choice.

Finally, personal preference plays an important role in determining which instrument is right for you; what kind of sound do you prefer? What type of look appeals most? Do certain techniques feel comfortable or uncomfortable? Answering these questions honestly can help narrow down your choices significantly before taking any further steps towards purchasing either instrument (or signing up for lessons).

Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for each individual person based on their budget constraints as well as musical goals and objectives. Some people may find that one particular instrument speaks louder than another while others might decide that neither fits their needs perfectly, so they opt out altogether. Therefore, we recommend doing research beforehand in order to make an informed decision about which path is right for you before committing time, money and energy towards learning either one.

Key Takeaway: When deciding between bass and guitar, consider cost, skill level, genre preferences, practicality considerations and personal preference to make an informed decision.

FAQs in Relation to Should I Learn Bass or Guitar

Is it better to start with guitar or bass?

It really depends on the individual’s preference and goals. If you are looking to learn a wide range of musical styles, then guitar is probably the better choice as it offers more versatility. However, if you want to focus on playing bass lines or creating grooves for songs, then bass may be a better option. Ultimately, it comes down to what type of music you want to play and how much time and effort you are willing to put into learning either instrument.

Do I need to learn guitar before bass?

No, you do not need to learn guitar before bass. Learning either instrument can be done independently and each has its own set of techniques and skills that are important to master. However, if you already have a basic understanding of music theory or some familiarity with the guitar, it may make learning the bass easier as they both share similar concepts. Ultimately, it is up to you which instrument you choose to learn first.

Is bass hard than guitar?

No, bass is not harder than guitar. While both instruments require a certain level of skill and practice to master, the difficulty level for each instrument varies depending on the individual player’s experience and ability. Bass requires an understanding of rhythm and timing as well as coordination between hands and feet while playing. Guitar involves more complex finger movements that can be difficult to learn but easier to master with practice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference which instrument is harder or easier for any given person.

Why you should play bass instead of guitar?

Playing bass is a great way to add depth and complexity to any musical ensemble. Bass lines provide the foundation for melodies, harmonies, and rhythms in music. The low-end frequencies of the bass guitar are especially effective at filling out a mix and creating an overall fuller sound. Additionally, playing bass requires less technical skill than playing guitar as it typically involves fewer notes and chords per measure. Finally, learning how to play bass can open up many more opportunities for collaboration with other musicians since there are often fewer players who specialize in this instrument compared to guitarists.

Best Guitar Brands

Looking for the best guitar brands? This top 10 list is based on the popularity and sales of the best guitar brands:

  1. Fender
  2. Gibson
  3. Taylor
  4. Ibanez
  5. Yamaha
  6. Martin
  7. Epiphone
  8. Paul Reed Smith
  9. Squier
  10. Jackson

Best Guitar for Beginners

There are many good options for beginner guitars, but some popular choices include:

  • Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster: This guitar is a budget-friendly option that offers the classic Fender Stratocaster design and sound.
  • Yamaha F Series: These guitars are also budget-friendly and offer good quality and playability.
  • Epiphone Les Paul Special II: This guitar offers the classic Les Paul design and sound, and is a great option for those interested in playing rock or metal.
  • Ibanez GRGM21 Mikro: This is a smaller-scale guitar, it’s perfect for younger players or those with smaller hands.
  • Martin LX1 Little Martin: This guitar is a smaller size, making it easy for beginners to handle and play.

Best Guitar Picks

The best guitar pick for you will depend on your playing style. The best guitar picks hands down are the Fender Premium Celluloid Guitar Picks!

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Best Guitar Tuner

Our favorite guitar tuner is the Fender FCT-2 Professional Clip-On Tuner.

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Paul Davids Guitar Course Review

Paul Davids is a guitar player and music producer from the Netherlands who runs a popular YouTube channel called ‘Paul Davids’. He has been playing guitar since he was 13 and holds a bachelor’s degree in music from the Rotterdam Conservatory. His channel, which he started in 2015, has generated millions of views, and he currently has over 1.5 million subscribers. His goal is to inspire fellow guitar players worldwide and to create and play music. On his channel, he shares guitar tutorials, music theory lessons, live guitar looping videos, and deconstructions of famous songs. He states that YouTube is a great platform for him to combine his love for playing guitar, producing, and making videos.

Check out the top-rated Paul Davids guitar course at: https://pauldavidsguitar.com/guitarcourses

Paul Davids Guitar Course Review

  • Paul Davids beginner guitar course: Learn, Practice, Play
  • Paul Davids intermediate guitar course: Next Level Playing
  • Paul Davids acoustic guitar course: Acoustic Adventure
  • Paul Davids guitar looping course: Loop School

And watch all the free guitar tutorials on Paul David’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PaulDavids

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding whether to learn bass or guitar, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each instrument, cost comparison, skill level considerations, genre considerations, practicality considerations, and personal preference. Ultimately it comes down to your own preferences as a musician and what you are looking for in an instrument. While both instruments have their advantages and disadvantages depending on the situation they can be used in; there is no definitive answer as to which one you should choose – bass or guitar. It all depends on your individual goals and desires as a musician. So if you’re asking yourself “should I learn bass or guitar?” take some time to think about these factors before making your decision.

Are you debating whether to learn bass or guitar? Don’t worry, we have the answers! At ClassReviewed.com, our mission is to provide comprehensive reviews and ratings of online courses so that you can make an informed decision about which instrument to learn. We offer a wide range of course options with detailed information on each one – from price points to instructor feedback – all in order for you to decide which option best suits your needs and learning style. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring today at ClassReviewed.com and take your skills up a notch!

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