Not starting a pick war, just a question

[MichaelJordan]

First let me say I am not trying to get a pick vs fingers argument going. I am not interested in the "best" or most common ways to play. I don't personally care or want to hear which method you use.

I had to say that because I just read 12 pages of Pick vs Fingers argument. I would have posted my question there but the thread was closed.

After reading the 12 pages, I saw several threads stating they usually pick on 5+ string basses but not on 4 string. I would just like to enquire why this is for some people? Is it because the added strings makes your right hand move more? Is it because the strings are closer together? Etc, etc. as there could be many reasons, I am just trying to figure things out.

I have recently picked up bass (played guitars for 10+ years) and just trying to figure some things out. Thanks a bunch!

[Ampeg SVT]

I used a pick on a 5 because the strings were much closer together and it was a bit confusing to play with my fingers, I also got more definition by using a pick.

It was a Warwick with very narrow string spacing, something with wider spacing like a Musicman Stingray 5 is much easier to play.

[bass'n it]

good question........I play a 5 string and a 4 string equally. I finger play as well as pick play on both ..to me it depends on the sound i wish to bring out in the Bass.....altho I find it "easier" to pluck the 5 string with a pick due to its strings being a bit closer together but ....I find both technics to be valuable skills to know as a bass player.



Ampeg club # 436
Passive club # 117

[Mikio]

I am the oposite... I like picking in 4 strings! more space and stuff, that's more comfy for me

but that doesn't matter, I go picks+fingers+tapping+slap+anything that comes in handy in any bass!!!

[Bassgrinder77]

It's all a matter of what sound you want and what's comfortable and works for you. There's so many variations and advantages/disadvantages to each. There truly are no rules. I don't even know if 5 string players use a pick more than fingers. A fair number of metal players play 5 strings these days and most metal players use a pick but again, there are no rules and many exceptions to the trends.

Originally Posted by MichaelJordan

First let me say I am not trying to get a pick vs fingers argument going. I am not interested in the "best" or most common ways to play. I don't personally care or want to hear which method you use.

I had to say that because I just read 12 pages of Pick vs Fingers argument. I would have posted my question there but the thread was closed.

After reading the 12 pages, I saw several threads stating they usually pick on 5+ string basses but not on 4 string. I would just like to enquire why this is for some people? Is it because the added strings makes your right hand move more? Is it because the strings are closer together? Etc, etc. as there could be many reasons, I am just trying to figure things out.

I have recently picked up bass (played guitars for 10+ years) and just trying to figure some things out. Thanks a bunch!

[emblymouse]

I've played both ways for 35 years. Although tone plays a part, I find that certain rhythmns are achieved by the the up and down action you get with a pick that just don't happen with finger style. It's not a speed thing, but a different rhythmic emphasis. And of course, nothing rocks like straight downstrokes!
And having just started with a 5 string, I realize I haven't yet used a pick. I'm gonna try it today!

[Madcity Fats]

I play four-stringers exclusively and usually play with my fingers, but I was in a band for awhile where I switched back and forth, sometimes in the middle of a song.

I used a thumb pick to be able to change from one technique to the other effortlessly. It did, however, take a little getting used to playing with my fingers with a pick still hugging my thumb.

I agree that picks are useful for certain styles where you want a pronounced attack. You can get a mellow sound with a pick, but without some really extreme EQing, you're not likely to be able to imitate that pick sound with your fingers.

Bass players who insist picks are for losers or the lazy need to tell it to Carol Kaye.