I'm so far out of the loop in buying equipment here in Chicago, I need some direction. I'd like to buy a new Bass but I'd like to avoid going to a guitar center or Sam Ash. Where's a better place here in Chicago to buy a bass, used or new?

Uh there's this guy named Fred Mangan

http://fredmangan.com/

Tell him we sent you. He'll probably give you a discount.

If you want to spend a lot of money for something boo teek, try Maken Music. If you want to get ripped off, try Chicago Music Exchange. If you want to buy something used or vintage that looks cool but may have some weird mod to it, goto Midwest Buy and Sell.