Bass guitars can have a different sound because of various factors such as the type of wood used in the instrument’s construction, the shape and contour of the body, the neck profile, and the hardware and electrics. The type of strings used can also affect the sound. Heavier strings tend to have a deeper, warmer tone, while lighter strings can provide a biting, clear tone. Lastly, the way a bass guitar is played—the right-hand technique, the left-hand muting, the use of effects and distortion, and even the amp and cabinet used—can all influence the final sound.