Who makes a great CHEAP bass guitar???

Question

I'm asking for an acquaintance - I already have 3 bass guitars, but they are too pricey for somebody on a budget, and this guy is definitely on a budget. He's looking for something for about $100, but I know that even a used bass might cost more than that. So who makes a great CHEAP bass? That way I could look for a used one for him to save him the extra money. Thanks!

My friend is NOT a beginner - he is experienced, and just wants to keep up his "chops" with a half-way decent bass. As to Guitar Center - you don't go to the same one I do - they treat me like royalty where I go (Appleton, WI) so they are NOT all the same.

Answer 1

OK, Paul. Sorry about the GC jab, the one near me (Greensboro, NC.) is a fairly new store and the only one I have been exposed to. There are a lot of local good gear shops in my surrounding area, so the last thing we needed was a GC. Now, with that being said, if you had mentioned that you friend was a player, I most likely would not have answered your question. This may be a long shot, but have you though about loaning him one of yours, or working out a purchase plan. True, the latter suggestion is a possible friendship killer, but it may be worth thinking about. Since he is a player and If he is totally gearless , then a Fender BassPak, may still be his best solution, and you guys should check out eBay. If you have never messed with eBay, look for the sellers that have a good amount of positive feedback and have been sellers for awhile. If you do have eBay experence, then you already know that. My good luck wish still stands.

Answer 2

If I were buying a low end bass I'd get the Washburn XB100 Bass Pack (just a bass and a case). It's $130 bucks from Musician's Friend and has a lot of ratings and seems to not be blasted by everyone as much as Rogues and Deans are.
A low end Ibanez seems to be decent too but they cost closer to $175. I personally got a low end Spector Performer. It was $300 and I love it. I made a mistake and got the refurb to save money and ended up having to send it back for a new one. So I'd buy a cheaper new bass instead of a blem or refurb from a higher priced guitar if I were your friend. Hope this helps.