wow. this is a odd one.

Basically, if your serious about wanting to do it, get something that wont sound like crap in the first place, alot of beginner musicians get some wal-mart stuff that doesnt give them the encouragement to play.

Btw, TRDwasiq, what kinda music you looking for, for a bassist, i play but i'm looking for something challenging?

acoustic will build your clarity (your silly whoever said you cant hide behind an acoustic, the slight chrous effect is almost just as bad as distortion if you have a deeper acoustic)

get what you want to start with and enjoy, use other styles to further yourself.

Epiphones play pretty good for what they are.