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5 string just to anchor your thumb?
- Thread starter tekydon
- Start date
Playing a 5 string adds so much more to your hand positioning. Especially walking bass lines. Like playing an F major walk from the 6th fret! That low string isn't there to just rest your fingers on.
I play only 5 and 6 strings, but there is still the issue of not being able to play traditional rest stroke on the lowest string. I sometimes put the tip of my thumb next to the low B string when I play it, so my plugging fingers have something to hit after the pluck.
If you add a low B, you will have to learn to mute it when you play, or you will get nasty low ringing sounds. Modify your technique.
If you add a low B, you will have to learn to mute it when you play, or you will get nasty low ringing sounds. Modify your technique.
Ric5
Inactive
- Jan 29, 2008
- 29,772
- 30,452
- Disclosures
- I like 5, 8, 10, and 12 string basses
When I first started learning 5 string I would use the B string as a thumb rest when not in use. I went to do a run starting on the G string and moving my hand caused my thumb to pivot and press the B string into the pickup magnet. Instead of a nice run the audience got a nice loud CLICK POP through the PA.
If you get a 5 string do you can use the B as a thumb rest, what are you gonna rest your thumb on when you decide to play the B? (you will, trust me)
You need a thumb rest. I make mine that are kind of an extension of the fretboard - closer than most thumb rests - I rest my thumb on the side of it when playing the B or E, and on top of it (against the B or E string) when playing other strings. Here's a 4 (chosen because the thumb rests blend in much more on my 5's, so they're difficult to see)
You need a thumb rest. I make mine that are kind of an extension of the fretboard - closer than most thumb rests - I rest my thumb on the side of it when playing the B or E, and on top of it (against the B or E string) when playing other strings. Here's a 4 (chosen because the thumb rests blend in much more on my 5's, so they're difficult to see)
Seems like a horrible idea to me. More weight, more expensive string changes, possibly more neck dive, another string to mute, wider neck... the list goes on. A thumb rest makes a million times more sense if all you want is somewhere to stick that digit.
However, if you want another string to actually play on then it's a brilliant idea with loads of benefits.
So are you telling me that the B string is not a thumb rest ?
Ric5
Inactive
- Jan 29, 2008
- 29,772
- 30,452
- Disclosures
- I like 5, 8, 10, and 12 string basses
It’s Warmoth wood, Hipshot hardware. Everything is aluminum - even the neck plate and knobs. Nordstrand Zen Blade, and... some special circuitry (my speciality)
For those wondering, not a hint of neck dive - you can jump up and down all tou want with your hands off the bass, it’ll stay put.
I would install a thumb rest on my 4 string if I just had to have a thumb rest.
I wouldn't get a 5 string for that purpose.
I sometimes rest my thumb on the E, or the end of the neck, but it varies between that and floating, it really depends on how I'm playing at the moment.
I wouldn't get a 5 string for that purpose.
I sometimes rest my thumb on the E, or the end of the neck, but it varies between that and floating, it really depends on how I'm playing at the moment.
Somebody may have already said this, but getting a five will complicate playing your E string, especially hitting the open E.
I used to do this back before I started working primarily with a 5 string.
I do not do this anymore, and imho, it is a bad habit that you should let go of.
Look up "floating thumb" technique and spend as many hours/weeks/months/years as needed to make it a habit. Your future self will thank you.
Just use a pick, problem solved, and for way less than a 5 string bass would cost.
Though if you got more money than you could ever possibly need and you don't mind the wider neck that comes with a 5 string compared to a 4 string bass (and especially if you want regular 19mm string spacing too) at all, then I guess why not?
Just seems to me that a thump rest could do the same, and honestly to me it seems like a bit silly reason to buy a 5 string bass.
Though if you got more money than you could ever possibly need and you don't mind the wider neck that comes with a 5 string compared to a 4 string bass (and especially if you want regular 19mm string spacing too) at all, then I guess why not?
Just seems to me that a thump rest could do the same, and honestly to me it seems like a bit silly reason to buy a 5 string bass.
Yes. You should absolutely buy a five string. Use the B string as a thumbrest.
Eventually, you'll become curious about that extra string...and then you'll begin to use it, and become a five-string player. However, you'll then need a thumbrest for the B string.
Yes. You should absolutely buy a six-string. Use the F# string as a thumbrest......
