Need a new bass

So ive had my first bass for almost 5 years now and I want to get a second one. I really liked the Yamaha trbx 304 and 504. I mainly play rock, funk and punk. Which one should I get?

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If you can afford it get the 504 (or 604). They all feel the same but the 5/604 have better pickups, a 3-band preamp, and an active/passive switch.

I had a 604 for years and loved it, with a 304 before it.

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I like that the 604 has the master tone in passive mode. It’s $100 more but you are getting better body finish, better electronics.

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I’ve never played a Yamaha, but I trust these guys and would get a 504/604 on their recommendation no questions.

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The question is: what is that first bass you’ve got? Is it a TRBX? Because you might want something different for your second bass, not something similar.

i had a squire, it came with a beginner pack. Ive changed pickups and strings on it, but im really not happy with the frets and the body overall.

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Do you know what model Squier it is? Is there something about it that you do like?

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Knowing what you don’t like is just as valuable as knowing what you like, if not more. Got pictures of the Squier?

its the FENDER Squier Affinity P Bass MN PJ. I did upgrade it, changed pickups, buttons and strings. I dont like the round neck that it has and also it just doesnt give the sound i want.


Here it is. Ive had it for 5 years. Its just as i am advancing i think i should treat myself to a better bass.

Makes sense. Yamaha’s a good instrument.

OK, I guess a Precision bass isn’t for you then :wink: I’d definitely consider a Fender-style Jazz bass, which has a narrower and thinner neck. That would be the “traditional” option. The more modern option would indeed be something like a Yamaha TRBX or an Ibanez SR300 (or a higher number - stay away from the GSR models). Both of those have active electronics and so-called humbucker pickups, which give you a lot of sounds to choose from. Both are also known for their comfortable, slim, “fast” necks.

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So a Yamaha trbx is what i want, good to know. Thank you Mike!

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You won’t be sorry, they are fantastic. I prefer the 604 myself but the 504 is a great instrument too, very few differences beyond appearance really :slight_smile:

I’ll just leave this here for you…

I own both but these days only play the 504. The upgraded pickups, electronics and the active passive mode switch are well worth the extra money. IMHO

Here is the 504

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So I guess the sound you are looking for is with a little growl, correct?
I own the TRBX 304, it is a great bass, but it’s tone is lacking in the “growl area”. So between the 504 and the 304, the 504 will probably be the better choice for you.

You can also take a look at one of the Ibanezes with Big Break Humbuckers. I got the Ibanez SR4FMDX, and I absolutely love the growl of that. The SR600 should be around the price range of the Yamaha 604.

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@KwnFragston I should have warned you that @howard is our resident Yamaha enabler, and gets a commission every time someone buys one :rofl:

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Just remember to use the code ‘howard’ when ordering :slight_smile:

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Have the 504 and love it.

I seriously wish I got a kickback or something. You have to admit I deserve a commission :rofl:

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