5 Strings

EADGC is probably the second-most common 5-string tuning. EADGB would be similar to that and would correspond to the bottom 5 strings of a guitar. EADGC would keep things more even, though, and it would probably be easier to adapt to.

 

1. You're not an idiot.
2. There's plenty of "chat" around here about different tunings for both 4 and 5 string basss. Sounds like you're tuning it like a guitar, just missing the high E string. Would you consider tuning the high string to a C? Would make more sense; you wouldn't be doubling up on a couple of notes, unless that's the tuning you're used to if you've been playing guitar.

I would think that it's possible to tune it that way. With the proper setup for the different string tension, why not? It's all personal preference. You could use a standard 4-string set of strings, but for the fifth string, I'm not sure what you'd use for the upper B string, unless you buy a 6-string set considering there's plenty of 6-or more- string players, there's strings available. They'd have a better idea of what to use.

Go for it, and good luck.

 

buy the high 5 string off a 6 string set... get a setup done.. play... they dont normally come tuned like that unless you get a custom