Some have asked me if there's a brand I'm most loyal to...although I don't really resonate with that idea...for the track record they've produced, I would have to say Yamaha. Yamaha has consistently offered basses with excellent features, top notch build quality and solid tone, that I believe can grow with the player. I can't say that of all the other companies.
I also, believe there is no sturdier build than the Yamaha BB series. The necks are solid like a rock and hardly move at all, which is great if you're doing a lot of traveling or do a lot of outdoor gigs.
I wholeheartedly endorse most anything Yamaha has to offer in the bass department.
Check it out for yourself!