Dropped C on a 5 String

[XAxiomX]

Would it be more advantageous on a 5 string bass when tuned to dropped C to: A: keep the bass in standard and treat the first fret of the B as the open C, and play everything on the other strings two frets lower, or B: tune the bass to dropped C, and only have a half step in between the open B and C?

[chaosMK]

I play a 5 string in a band that uses drop D and drop C.

I keep the bass in standard tuning. I tend to prefer the timbre of fretted notes to open strings. I also like the way things play out in C (8th fret on E, etc) in the higher octaves. Additionally, I really like having high string tension, because I am an aggressive player- detuning super low makes the strings rather floppy.

[TheInsane]

My band plays drop C (death metal). I tune up my bass though so that the B string becomes a C etc. One of our guitarists does the same thing with his 7 string guitar. It suits the music best since there is alot of open C's and then stuff to play down the neck.

[Rattlehead]

Originally Posted by TheInsane

My band plays drop C (death metal). I tune up my bass though so that the B string becomes a C etc. One of our guitarists does the same thing with his 7 string guitar. It suits the music best since there is alot of open C's and then stuff to play down the neck.

Or if you're afraid of tuning up you can just buy a capo and place it on the first fret.