Using this Fender bass guitar is easy. First, tune your guitar using the standard open - gear tuning machines. The Fender® USA 9050L Stainless Steel Flatwound strings are durable and give a great sound. When you play, use the Custom Seymour Duncan® Split Single - Coil Mustang Bass® pickups to get the tone you want. For carrying around, the Deluxe Gig Bag provides good protection. When it comes to maintenance, keep the guitar in a dry place to avoid damage to the Alder body and Rosewood fretboard. Clean the strings regularly to keep the sound clear. And be careful when handling the hardware with nickel/chrome finish to prevent scratches.