Re: Educate Me: J-Bass vs P-Bass
For your first bass, you really can't go wrong with a J. It's a little easier to play because of the narrower neck, it's extremely versatile, has really great tone, sexy looks, very nice and comfortable feel.
After a couple years you may decide that there is a more specific sound that you're after. Then you can branch out once you have more practical experience...P, Ric, Warwick, etc.
I started with an old Tele bass, quickly went to a J bass, went to a Ric (absolutely loved the tones in the Ric), then to an ESP with actives, then back to the Jazz (with flatwounds).