Going to give a little insight into buying that first instrument, some do's and don'ts. this will be for both instruments, bass included.
Ok so you're attracted by the sound of the guitar or bass, or maybe both!
Lets start. i've found that it's always good to try out a few, maybe learn from brief scales. e to e for basics. If you have already tried the instrument or a friends or family, & have a bit of experience... so when you're heading to the nearest guitar shop, or even finding a local auction seller offering a great one for pennies..
I recommend always trying the cheapish models. unless finding a well made one, say an ibanez for about £200 gbp theyre are nice to play with the flat neck, making playing easier, or an esp if you like that rock metal sound. you may find you don't later you don't like it in the end, this is for the first timers with no experience playing.. and when coming to sell it, you'll lose out on getting back what you paid, unless the shop has a return refund option for full price.
because i've seen some spent hundreds on instruments, & give up without really trying properly.. theyre not an easy instrument at first to play, but with time and patience you'll surprise yourself!
I have played both types, since 16, now 42.. first trying a bass. a hohner 24fret with active. such a beautiful sound, i'd have bought it when the chance came up. but was too late. i tried guitar afterwards. a cheapie under £80 or so.. and in time with persistance sold it on and got something new and better,
lastly. i recommend some good strings for it, either 9's or 10 for the guitar.. dean markley blue steels.. theyre a bit better than the ernies or front section counter displays strings you see advertised..
if in time you like what you've got. you can always mod upgrade bits. from new pickups to changing the dials to push pull.