my recommendation is to go test out some bass and try to find "your sound" and you can find something up to twice ur budget and wait for sweelee sale which is 50% off and get it there.. its a steal.. ^^
FYI try not to get starter set.. i got 1 and im kinda regretting it now..
Just my $0.02. I don't think a starter bass exists, although many instruments are marketed as such. Like many of the bassists in this thread, I still play the bass I first bought long ago. Basses, like all instruments, are unique, in sound, construction and quality, even in the same brand family and across different price ranges.
"Starter" just describes where you are at in your musical journey, or in learning to play an instrument. The OP knows the budgets and needs best, but my advice is to always get the best instrument you can afford, and to bring along someone who can at least help the buyer walk through the basics of playing and act as a reference check and mentor.
What I like about this thread is that here is another bassist beginning the journey. Welcome to the Low End Family!
you shld try squier basses. although not in your budget but worth saving up some more. their quite good. my first bass is a Squier Precision Bass Vintage Modified bought at SL Sims Drive. Still using it, its really good. Dont think i'll ever sell it.