also you should not use a pick

you should start of playing with your thumb(mostly on the e string)

and your index and middle finger (ADG mostly)

but whatever your comfortable with first

The whole don't play with a pick thing also makes no sense. Everyone used a pick pretty much until the rolling stones came along. Learning to use both is of course the best option since both give different tones and work best for different things but use whatevers most comfortable for you as your main.

are there any books i can buy that will help me?

no way play with apick



also i say we move this to a "i want to buy a bass thread" instead of a

"music career in japan thread"

i should make one, or there's ALREADY one? i want to be sure before i post something stupid. again.

I don't know of any good books as I've never used any however after you get your bass I recommend studying this website.

Ricci Adams' Musictheory.net

And then use their trainers especially things like their interval ear trainer. Use it so much and you will be able to play anything you hear instantly which is the aim (I think we can all agree that it is a great skill).

If you tell me how much you are willing to spend I can give you a more specific model of bass that would okay for beginners.

i'm looking for cheap but effective. how much do they usually cost?

It doesn't make too much of a difference when you're starting what model you pick up as long it's at least decent.

Anyhoo if you have the extra cash go for this (I bought it over the fender because it was cheaper and easily as good).

Buy Squier by Fender Vintage Modified '70s Jazz Bass | 4 String Electric Bass | Musician's Friend

But if you just want a basic but solid beginners guitar I honestly don't think there's a problem with the affinity p-bass. It does a good variety of styles.

Buy Squier by Fender Affinity Series P Bass | 4 String Electric Bass | Musician's Friend

If you want for an extra $100 (I think, I'm trying to think in american prices here so bear with me) or so you can get a pack with the affinity p bass, an amp, strap, lead, some headphones and carry case. The, amp, cables and so forth aren't great but are fine for a beginner.

headphones? :confused:

Ones with a bigger jack end so you can plug it into your amp for late night practise or for if your parents don't like you playing plugged in a lot.