new to 5 string.. questions and issues

[NickfromSOS]

My main bass is an american jazz bass which is real easy to play. Recently I picked up a 5 string Lakland on a great deal. As I've been playing with it, I notice that the low B and E strings vibrate a lot while I'm playing other strings while I play with my fingers in my right hand. What can i do to stop the lower strings from vibrating and producing sound while I play?

[FretGrinder]

This isn't a flippant answer, though it might sound like one: mute them with your hands.

You'll find a combination of left and right hand technique to suit depending on what you're playing, whether you're playing with a pick, etc. It may take a while to find an approach you're comfortable with. You may also find using a "floating thumb" technique useful when playing fingerstyle. It may take some time, but the practice will likely serve you well when you're back on a 4 string.

Love them Lakland 5'ers.

[NickfromSOS]

Thanks for the feedback.. i've tried resting my right thumb on the B string but i find it awkward to play the E string in that position. With the wider neck of the 5 string, I try not to play left thumb over top of the neck too. Doesn't happen with a pick, nor does it happen with my Jazz bass. The EQ on the lakland is so responsive that it just picks up any little vibration.

[Skitch it!]

Try practising anchoring your thumb on the B, give it a go for a while, the B and E tend to resonate in sympathetic frequency when your playing if they arn't covered, or as Fretgrinder has posted, floating thumb and left hand muting to keep things quiet.

[puddin tame]

this will reduce as your technique improves over time. good technique is all about having a light but efficient touch, so eventually you'll just be able to play one string without setting off the other open ones