Fretted vs. Fretless Bass Guitar - What Are The Pros And Cons

When it comes to your instrument, for all intents and purposes, it is like a car or a house. It is your prized possession that starts off as a blank canvas, and you have full reign to make it as uniquely you as possible.

On top of a brand, musicians will look at instrument specifications, colors, shapes, and abilities. Then there is the desire to alter it. Change the pickups. Add stickers. Experience a few battle scars.

Of course, there are those folks that like to keep a pristine, "factory sealed" type look. That is fine, too.  

When looking at bass guitars, there are many different stylistic choices, but one variation that is often discussed is Fretted vs. Fretless Basses. 

So let's break down what exactly that means and where the idea comes from.

 

from
https://www.aimm.edu/blog/fretted-vs.-fretless-bass-guitar