Fender 5-String Inline Tuning Key Configurations

TolerancEJ · #1 08-19-2010, 10:08 AM

I've been accustomed to seeing Fender 5-strings in a 4 + 1 configuration. I noticed this item on Music Go Round but the 5 keys are in line.

http://www.musicgoround.com/product.aspx?id=950392

Is this instrument an actual Fender? Are there other Fender 5-strings which use an inline 5-string configuration?

Edit: Wait, I remember the original Fender V is inline.

Tropic · #2 08-19-2010, 10:10 AM

Yeah in the 90s when Fender started rolling out 5ers, they made them in the ugly (imo) inline configuration. I personally prefer them now in the 4+1 configuration.

TolerancEJ · #3 08-19-2010, 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tropic

Yeah in the 90s when Fender started rolling out 5ers, they made them in the ugly (imo) inline configuration. I personally prefer them now in the 4+1 configuration.

Agreed. I think 4+1 looks better on a Fender.

5string5fingers · #4 08-19-2010, 10:20 AM

Yep the MIM 5 string jazz deluxe has inline http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend....s-V?sku=511596 Can also double as a boat anchor for your 30 ft yacht...

okcrum · #5 08-19-2010, 10:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 5string5fingers

Yep the MIM 5 string jazz deluxe has inline http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend....s-V?sku=511596 Can also double as a boat anchor for your 30 ft yacht...

Yeah, you're probably better off with an SX or a Squier.

shannons · #6 08-19-2010, 10:53 AM

ESP still has 5-inline & Carvin did it briefly.

TolerancEJ · #7 08-19-2010, 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shannons

ESP still has 5-inline & Carvin did it briefly.

Oh yes, I am aware that many other companies have inline tuners. On other basses, the inline tuners looks better. I was just a bit surprised to see a non-4+1 configuration on a Fender.

spade2you · #8 08-19-2010, 10:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shannons

ESP still has 5-inline & Carvin did it briefly.

At one point, Carvin was doing inline 12 string guitar headstocks. It's interesting, but less practical.

TolerancEJ · #9 08-19-2010, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spade2you

At one point, Carvin was doing inline 12 string guitar headstocks. It's interesting, but less practical.

I've had a mental image of a guitar player turning around quickly & poking someone in the eye.

Edit: Speaking of being poked in the eye, have a look at the Battle Bass on Beck Guitarworks website. I've read somewhere, which I've not confirmed, that you have to sign a release in order to purchase these guitars from Beck Guitarworks.

On the Left side, click on Guitars, then choose Battle Bass from the right menu.
http://www.beckguitarworks.com/

Ace Marconi · #10 08-19-2010, 11:13 AM

I have this exact model, in classic white. It is a beautiful instrument to play, and to hear as well. I find that the inline tuners get bashed less, as they are smaller. As well, the odd time that I have to tune (usually around sundown for outdoor gigs), my hand can find the right tuner while I'm playing. (I use a chromatic tuner)

I am fully aware that there can be quality issues with all musical instruments. I strongly advocate spending a few hours with any instrument, any make, new or used, before you plunk down your credits.

Last word goes to the people who see it when I play. The universal response has been "That is a beautiful instrument". As they are usually responsible for my presence at the gig, and often they're the ones paying, I do not argue with them.

mmbongo · #11 08-19-2010, 12:28 PM

This is on a 1998 Jazz Bass V:

Give me the 4+1 any day!

mmbongo · #12 08-19-2010, 12:29 PM

And did someone mention odd looking Fender 5 strings?

Tropic · #13 08-19-2010, 12:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mmbongo

This is on a 1998 Jazz Bass V:

Give me the 4+1 any day!

Amen to that! I would take the new sx headstock 5 over the inline fender 5.

rutty24 · #14 08-19-2010, 12:32 PM

my 2007 mim fender standard jazz bass is 5 inline. i admit 4+1 does look a lot nicer but i couldn't afford an american standard at the time.

5string5fingers · #15 08-19-2010, 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mmbongo

And did someone mention odd looking Fender 5 strings?

Dude I'd rock that any day of the week! What is that?

bassbenj · #16 08-19-2010, 12:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ace Marconi

I have this exact model, in classic white. It is a beautiful instrument to play, and to hear as well. I find that the inline tuners get bashed less, as they are smaller. As well, the odd time that I have to tune (usually around sundown for outdoor gigs), my hand can find the right tuner while I'm playing. (I use a chromatic tuner)

I am fully aware that there can be quality issues with all musical instruments. I strongly advocate spending a few hours with any instrument, any make, new or used, before you plunk down your credits.

Last word goes to the people who see it when I play. The universal response has been "That is a beautiful instrument". As they are usually responsible for my presence at the gig, and often they're the ones paying, I do not argue with them.

+1 !

That is my exact Fender too. Except mine is in sunburst, was like new and was $200 less.

I really like the inline tuners. No fumbling around to reach the other tuner. Plus they are smaller and more "modern". I mean what was it with those gigantic Fender tuning keys anyway? Some people seem stuck in the past even when it makes no sense.

And yes, there is considerable variation in Fender basses especially the MIM ones. Chose wisely grasshopper!

My only complaint with it is the pickups. I LOVE the noiseless feature that lets you single any pickup without hum. But the mexican noiseless pups while not terrible or anything just don't quite have the tone of the MIA pups or some aftermarket ones. One day, I'll get a bug and fork out for some and then nothing will stand in the way of this bass!

TolerancEJ · #17 08-19-2010, 12:37 PM

@5strings5fingers That's a Fender Dimension V bass. I actually like that bass.

5string5fingers · #18 08-19-2010, 12:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bassbenj

+1 !

That is my exact Fender too. Except mine is in sunburst, was like new and was $200 less.

I really like the inline tuners. No fumbling around to reach the other tuner. Plus they are smaller and more "modern". I mean what was it with those gigantic Fender tuning keys anyway? Some people seem stuck in the past even when it makes no sense.

And yes, there is considerable variation in Fender basses especially the MIM ones. Chose wisely grasshopper!

My only complaint with it is the pickups. I LOVE the noiseless feature that lets you single any pickup without hum. But the mexican noiseless pups while not terrible or anything just don't quite have the tone of the MIA pups or some aftermarket ones. One day, I'll get a bug and fork out for some and then nothing will stand in the way of this bass!

The MIM deluxe has american electronics?

LowB-ing · #19 08-19-2010, 01:00 PM

I disagree with all of you preferring 4+1 on Fenders. Every Fender that has a 4+1 headstock looks like it's trying to be a MusicMan. It sort of loses a little of it's identity

I just wish Fender would use larger (but still lightweight) tuners on th in-lines. Those small ones look whimpy and un-Fendery