Cheap and Unique or expensive and less so?

[uk_lefty]

Hi there... I'm in a quandry!! Long story short - I want to buy a new bass but have other financial commitments. I can stretch a little but there's a nagging sensibility that says some of my options are too much. Buying a cheaper bass to tide me over is an option however, and there's some interesting stuff about... Opinions please!

Cheaper Basses:
Bach 51 style P - love the style of these basses, would maybe need a pickup upgrade
Bach Fenderbird - unique for sure and maple fretboard
Sire Jazz - when they're out in lefty
G&L Tribute - never played one but think I'd like it


More Expensive:
New Fender MIJ Jazz 75 - looks amazing, but I already have a jazz and am scared of it needing new pickups
New Ibanez SR-1205 - looks amazing, great reviews but no idea if its for me
Countless New Sandbergs, really got GAS for these after playing one at at the LBGS
2012 2nd hand Fender P
1977 Fender P - not the greatest bass I've ever played but affordable if they accept a low but realistic offer

[Lozz196]

For me, given the comments that the 77 isn`t the greatest bass ever played, I`d look at the 2012 Precision. These are fantastic basses, amazing quality/players. Though I have to admit, I far prefer the sound of my 78 to the modern Fenders, so I suppose it depends a lot on that as well. If the 77 has the sound you want, well after a while I`m sure the playability will suit. I find my 2010 easier to play, the 78 I have to play hard to get the tones I want, but find this more rewarding, the 2010 just gives so easily, but still the 78 has the better sound for me. Some may prefer the easier way however, it`s all up to the individual.

[chris_b]

Try a Squier.

If you can find one that plays well you can always upgrade the pickups.

[Paul S]

I would add a Yamaha BB 414 to your cheapo bass list - you might be surprised. I was. Looks, sounds and feels like a bass way above its price point.

[ras52]

[quote name='Paul S' timestamp='1427969081' post='2736380']
I would add a Yamaha BB 414 to your cheapo bass list - you might be surprised. I was. Looks, sounds and feels like a bass way above its price point.
[/quote]

+1! I'm just getting into fives and picked up a s/h BB425 for peanuts, and it's blown my socks off. It seriously competes with my late-70s P.