Kay S-51 5 String-Questions

Leftymusicman · #1 10-01-2010, 09:11 AM

Hi all,

I am primarily an electric bass player, though I have owned a kay S-51 5 string for a long time which happened to 'fall into my lap" about 10 yrs ago, when a co-worker said 'I don't have the space for this. You play bass. You can have it."

I have precious little time to learn a fretless instrument, but I have always held onto it thinking that after my kids grow up I will dedicate time.

I guess my question is: how rare are these suckers? I am torn between liquidating it for equipment I WANT and NEED, or keeping it.

The condition of the instrument is 'fair' with some roughed up trim/edges that would need some work. It has a light blonde finish and a few blemishes to the body, but it appears to be good otherwise. Currently it is strung lefty for when I DO use it.

Thanks for any suggestions or advice. I figure, if it is only worth $600-$800 I would rather keep it. I found some in mint condit. that were listed @ $5000, but, of course that is an ASKING price, and who knows how realistic that is?

Thanks for any advice in advance.

LeftyM

coldtrain · #2 10-01-2010, 10:10 AM

I bought mine used for $3000 in good condition. Sounds and plays great.

Any pics?

If you want to part with yours for $800 let me know!

Fabio

Leftymusicman · #3 10-01-2010, 10:19 AM

CT,

You have that 5th string set up as a high C? when I got mine it was used previously as a low C. I tuned it to B, but then what do I know I am a rock/roots player.

Is it uncommon for a Low B and standard to have it EADGC?

thanks

LM

coldtrain · #4 10-01-2010, 11:42 AM

I believe originally the S-51/"Chubby Jackson" models were intended to be used with a high C string. I've had a low B on mine at times as well (Obligato) and it sounded great. Right now I like having the high C. But it should be fine either way.

Leftymusicman · #5 10-04-2010, 06:25 AM

Thanks for the $800 offer.

I think it is worth my while to see what i can get for it, and I am thinking it will be more than $800.

Rocky · #6 10-04-2010, 12:08 PM

I'm a little confused. You say you have it strung up for a left handed player. Is it a left handed bass? If you have a right handed bass strung up left handed you may be ruining the bass as the bass bar will be on the wrong side of the top plate. The bass bar should be under the side of the E string.