Agile Basses...Any good?

[TAlderson]

I'm looking for a bass guitar to add to my recordings, and liked some of the Agiles I've seen on the site. problem is, of course, I can't try them out. So I was wondering if any of you guys have one, owned one in the past, or played one, and what you thought. Also, if there were any cheap ($100-300 or so) basses you would reccomend besides the Agile I'd be interested.

I'm mainly an acoustic guy, so I'm looking for something with a mellow sound, not booming or muddy, but nothing really sharp. Also, this would primarily be a recording instrument, although it would probably come out in jams with friends and maybe even an open mic or two. So I'll probably buy a smaller mid-sized amp or something like that. Any suggestions?

-Tyler

[brandondrury]

I've never touched the Agile basses, but I just heard this weekend of a trusted buddy who bought an Agile acoustic. He says it's amazing!...just like the electrics.

If I needed a bass, I'd jump right in and buy an Agile, I think.

Brandon

[Smidgelton]

What site are you looking at? The only Agile bass I can find is acoustic/electric for $240. Is that what you're looking for?

If you're looking for an electric, you should check out a Peavey Millenium for about $240. I'm not a huge Peavey fan, but for a cheap starter bass, I wouldn't recommend anything else. They are of solid construction, easy to play, and have decent tone.

As for amplification, I suggest the Fender Rumble 2x10" combo. I think it's over 300 dollars, but it'll give you good sound and enough power to play a small gig or open mic. Matched with that Peavey bass you should be able to come up with a variety of good tones.

[TAlderson]

Yeah, I was looking at that one, and one like it except it's cheaper (I think cheaper wood). They also have a non-electric one for cheaper, but I want the electronics.

-Tyler

[TAlderson]

I'll check out the Peavey. I've heard good things about them in terms of their cheap stuff, although I have yet to play any of their instruments. I've used their amps, though.

-Tyler

[brandondrury]

While we are on the subject of cheap basses, I recorded a band a little over a year ago who used a Fender Squier bass. While my experience with Fender Squier has been similar to my experience with diarrhea, I've got say that the bass recorded very well. It didn't have near the mud or super deep low end junk that I often deal with.

I'm not saying the bass was amazing, but I am saying that it made my job easier, for whatever that is worth.

Brandon

[Smidgelton]

Originally Posted by TAlderson

Yeah, I was looking at that one, and one like it except it's cheaper (I think cheaper wood). They also have a non-electric one for cheaper, but I want the electronics.

-Tyler

Ah. Well I can't say I know much about that acoustic/electric Agile. There is one thing you need to be very careful about when buying an acoustic bass. The thicker strings put a ton of tension on that hollow body, so definitely make sure the bass you're getting is of quality construction. If you decide to buy that bass, make sure there is a good return policy in case you have problems.

Originally Posted by brandondrury

While we are on the subject of cheap basses, I recorded a band a little over a year ago who used a Fender Squier bass.

Brandon

I have heard that older Fender Squier basses, I think Japanese models are fairly decent. From what I know of the current line of Squiers, I wouldn't go anywhere near them.

[brandondrury]

From what I know of the current line of Squiers, I wouldn't go anywhere near them.

Yeah, that was my initial thought too. Then when it came time to track / mix I found that the Squier was easier to mix than basses I've recorded that cost 10x as much.

The thicker strings put a ton of tension on that hollow body, so definitely make sure the bass you're getting is of quality construction.

I've played about 20 different Agile guitars now and everyone of them has been top notich. I hear the acoustics are just as good (as mentioned above). I expect the quality of the basses to be great...not just good.

Brandon

[TAlderson]

I've only tried Squier guitars and have been less than impressed with them. But I'll check out the basses when I get a chance...

-Tyler

[brandondrury]

Don't be surpised if they blow ass, it may have been a fluke!

Brandon