5 String Probs...

[XdunstanX]

From what i can see, most 5 strings are 35" scale. I play in Drop a (A,E,A,D) my 4 string won't hold the tune for long,

Just to be sure a 5 string bass will be alot better?

any other tips?

Cheers Guys.

 

[allexcosta]

Some 5ers are 35", I wouldn't say most.

Won't hold tune? How come?

Only you can say if it will be a lot better.

 

[XdunstanX]

i use thicker strings, but im guessing being a longer neck it would hold the strings tighter?

 

[mikezimmerman]

If it won't stay in tune, the problem is likely a setup/stringing issue, or perhaps a technique issue (if you're a really aggressive player). There are plenty of 34" 5 strings--and 4 strings tuned to BEAD--that hold tuning just fine.

Mike

 

[Tejano Joveno]

My 5er is a 34" and it holds drop A just fine, if you think the neck length is the problem try more wraps around the tuner when you restring, it gives you a little extra tension, be warned though, it tends to take some thump out of the tone.

 

[Bryan R. Tyler]

My 5er is a 34" and it holds drop A just fine, if you think the neck length is the problem try more wraps around the tuner when you restring, it gives you a little extra tension, be warned though, it tends to take some thump out of the tone.

It may change the tone, but it won't add any tension.

To the OP- what string gauges are you currently using?

 

[mikezimmerman]

It may change the tone, but it won't add any tension.

To the OP- what string gauges are you currently using?

Also, how many wraps around the tuner are you using? I ask this for exactly the opposite reason as the earlier poster, because I find that too many wraps can make it difficult to get rid of extra slack and get the string completely stretched out after restringing. Generally no more than a couple wraps is fine, in my expereince--you just need to be sure you have enough to keep the string from slipping.

Mike

 

[XdunstanX]

im using a .135 B string on a Dean Edge 4.