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4 String or 5 String

I've decided to get a new bass. I'm gonna get a Fender P Bass but I'm not sure whether to get a 4 string or a 5 string. I've only been playing for about 6 months on a 4 string so I'm not sure if I should get a 5 string because I'm not sure if I'm gonna have to relearn how to play. Yet a 5 string would let me use a B string without putting my whole bass in drop B. If it doesn't hurt my technique any then I'll gladly buy a 5 string, but I'm not sure how it will affect me so I thought I'd ask some pro's.
 
I've decided to get a new bass. I'm gonna get a Fender P Bass but I'm not sure whether to get a 4 string or a 5 string. I've only been playing for about 6 months on a 4 string so I'm not sure if I should get a 5 string because I'm not sure if I'm gonna have to relearn how to play. Yet a 5 string would let me use a B string without putting my whole bass in drop B. If it doesn't hurt my technique any then I'll gladly buy a 5 string, but I'm not sure how it will affect me so I thought I'd ask some pro's.

GET THE FIVE.

I changed from 4 to 5 after playing 4 for 20 years. The switch will be a piece of cake for you.

Again, get the five. You'll be very glad you did, especially if you're considering into BEAD tuning.
 
My feeling is that if you want a 5, get a 5, and if you want a 4, get a 4. I have little use for one anymore, but I'm not everybody. I still keep one around just in case I need it for a sub gig, but I really hate playing them.

It won't ruin your technique to play a 5, although there is usually an adjustmnt period.
 
GET THE FIVE.

I changed from 4 to 5 after playing 4 for 20 years. The switch will be a piece of cake for you.

Again, get the five. You'll be very glad you did, especially if you're considering into BEAD tuning.

Great advice!

The only thing that i very slightly prefer on a 4 over a 5 is slapping some stuff - less muting to pay attention to. But, the 5 is more flexible.

My advice - get the 5!

Dan K.

Also true. This is why I have one of each. But you can learn to slap on a five with practice.
 
I have two 4-string Fenders (1 P-bass and 1 jazz). I also have a Fender P-bass V the I got recently. I switch back and forth from 4-string and 5-string basses without any problem. There really wasn't that much difference and the adjustment time was pretty short for me.

Post pics of your new bass when you get it! ;)