Which is better?

Which is better for a beginner, a 4 string bass, or a 6 string electric guitar?

Well, it depends. Do you want to play bass or guitar. In my eyes it is alot easier to just start both, if possible. But if you want to get basics down go with the guitar, then when you get a bass you will understand alot of techniques. I started with the bass though because i wanted to play the bass, and soo i started playing guitar so i had a good idea of alot of things. So in other words do what u want to do.

Well I think the stretch is very hard on beginners...I think the bass in fact can be hell..LOL(being new on bass and owning a few 6 strings)..I kinda think it would depend on just what song is being learned...Take something like "Smoke on the water"...heh, I think this was quite easy to learn on a 6...or something like "Come as you are"...by Nirvana...The 6 can be quite simple depending on just what one is trying to do first...and again..shooo That stretch on the bass as well as them cables for strings..LOL can be rough..IMHO

I think guitar is easier on the hands for a beginner, but then again bass is very bass-ic (basic, heh).

Yup I agree...Once you know some kewl riffs and some great scales ...etc ... etc .. on the 6..and then you apply them to the bass you can get some really killer bass runs that sound great.

Bass is alot more linear (imo) since you have to sorta mix in with the drummer (unless you play like Phil Lesh..) which is tough though when your used to rippin it up in a completely improvised run.

Six string *cough*acoustic

I agree bass does tend to fade into the drums...However, When it comes to bass and what I like...Without question I love Billy Sheehan and his style...and If I was in a band as the bass player...My goal would be to stand out as well as Sheehan...

heh Have I stated how much I love Claypool's music as well heheheee