Are 5 strings on the way out?

[Bobo]

I've read all posts on this topic (5 String),and there were only 3 brief references to using EADGC tuning! I tried using the low B but I'm so used to reading with the EADG tuning that the extra string really messed with my brain. It seems that using a high C doesn't give the same problem and also opens up a whole new world of playing 3 note voicings as well as soloing in a quasi guitar range. I'm having a blast and would recommend that others try it!! It's easy to go back if you want.

the few times i’ve tried a 5 string, i’ve never tried it with the C on the first string. You have inspired me to give it another go. Thanks! Old dog learning new trick!

 

[Bobo]

Yes they are IMO. Much of today’s music does not require the added range and it was something new and different at the time. I’m more disappointed in the availability of fretless basses. When I was younger everyone had a fretless thanks to the likes of Pino, Norwood, Tony Franklin and of course Jaco and don’t even get me started on why kids don’t use there thumb anymore to slap.However I digress. Things change

I love this thread for several reasons. I don’t know of any better way to ‘meet’ other bass players and exchange info on makes, models, strings, likes, dislikes, what works, what doesn’t...I am so greatful for all of you! I remember a time when the only input you got was if you were lucky enough to bump into another bass player in a store, or sharing a show with another band and exchanging info. I saw my first Ampeg AMUB-1 watching Milt Hinton on the old Dick Cavett show as bassist for the Bobby Rosengarden Orchestra. I saw the fretless scroll top and said, “ I’ve got to find out what that is and get me one!” It took a while (1975) and we’ve been together ever since. Thank you all for your stories and your consideration! -Bobo

 

[ArtechnikA]

All my basses (even the EUB) have at least 5 strings.

 

[bassmike2010]

I love this thread for several reasons. I don’t know of any better way to ‘meet’ other bass players and exchange info on makes, models, strings, likes, dislikes, what works, what doesn’t...I am so greatful for all of you! I remember a time when the only input you got was if you were lucky enough to bump into another bass player in a store, or sharing a show with another band and exchanging info. I saw my first Ampeg AMUB-1 watching Milt Hinton on the old Dick Cavett show as bassist for the Bobby Rosengarden Orchestra. I saw the fretless scroll top and said, “ I’ve got to find out what that is and get me one!” It took a while (1975) and we’ve been together ever since. Thank you all for your stories and your consideration! -Bobo

Ampeg AMUB-1.Pics always encouraged. Classic. Talkbass is a cornucopia
of useful information. Often a lot more than there are hours in the day
to process and at times And at times, on subjects not gear specific or
from people whose opinions will conflict with yours. The benefit is knowledge.
There are regional "get togethers" where you can meet others in your area
and can lay hands on gear. Otherwise there are threads that are subject
specific as you go along. Click the link at the upper right hand corner
to monitor posts to follow the rabbit hole and enjoy.

 

[Ric5]

most basses have at least 20 frets … most players don't play up to the 20th or 24th frets … why don't we all just get 12 fret basses? after all there is no money above the 5th fret right?

So the same reason I like having 21 frets I also like the low B string … sometimes you just need to go there

 

[Wyvern]

most basses have at least 20 frets … most players don't play up to the 20th or 24th frets … why don't we all just get 12 fret basses? after all there is no money above the 5th fret right?

So the same reason I like having 21 frets I also like the low B string … sometimes you just need to go there

I'm writing a song that is played from open to the 23'rd fret- I don't deploy the B string, but on another song I'm writing, it would be physically impossible to play with a 4 stringer.

Depends on what you play, I've always been inspired by prog. Even my Hero Geddy used a 5'er for "lock and key" he can get away with a 4 banger because his voice is high, and metal bands can get away using a down tuned 4, but bands like Mudvayne, Periphery and Breaking Ben need a 5'er in much (not all) of their music.

I find using a 5 string opens more doors for creativity, but with 6 strings, it starts to become increasingly difficult to fret notes and stay fast, but it makes for an amazing chord and tap machine- IMHO using a 5 with a high C is more usable than a thicc 6'er (that sounds dirty...)

 

[Bobo]

...another great thing about this forum, i’m learning about current equipment, bans and techniques i’m not familiar with...you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!

 

[Ric5]

I'm writing a song that is played from open to the 23'rd fret- I don't deploy the B string, but on another song I'm writing, it would be physically impossible to play with a 4 stringer.

Depends on what you play, I've always been inspired by prog. Even my Hero Geddy used a 5'er for "lock and key" he can get away with a 4 banger because his voice is high, and metal bands can get away using a down tuned 4, but bands like Mudvayne, Periphery and Breaking Ben need a 5'er in much (not all) of their music.

I find using a 5 string opens more doors for creativity, but with 6 strings, it starts to become increasingly difficult to fret notes and stay fast, but it makes for an amazing chord and tap machine- IMHO using a 5 with a high C is more usable than a thicc 6'er (that sounds dirty...)

The original 5 string was not about extended range but rather fewer frets

 

[Wyvern]

The original 5 string was not about extended range but rather fewer frets

Aaaaagh! kill it with FIRE

 

[Auspuff]

As a Four-Stringer Till Death, I don't mind moving around, on the fretboard.

The challenge makes me a better musician.

However, that is what works for me.

 

[chadds]

The original 5 string was not about extended range but rather fewer frets

Unless that's from the 15th century its not the original 5 string.

 

[chadds]

My 5-string is on the way out.
Out the door to another gig.

 

[BurningSkies]

Did we figure this out yet.

 

[Bobo]

Did we figure this out yet.

Yes, we all agree to disagree.

 

[Ric5]

Unless that's from the 15th century its not the original 5 string.

ok … the 1st 5 string electric bass

 

[Ric5]

I like 4 string basses so much that I convert them into 5 string basses

http://www.3dentourage.com/425/425.htm

http://www.3dentourage.com/425/425-Ric.htm

 

[Wyvern]

I like 4 string basses so much that I convert them into 5 string basses

http://www.3dentourage.com/425/425.htm

http://www.3dentourage.com/425/425-Ric.htm

View attachment 3564934

Killer!

 

[Ric5]

I try to avoid 4 string basses because it messes with my muscle memory and when I switch between 4 and 5 I end up on the wrong string playing the wrong notes.

 

[Auspuff]

I like 4 string basses so much that I convert them into 5 string basses

http://www.3dentourage.com/425/425.htm

http://www.3dentourage.com/425/425-Ric.htm

View attachment 3564934

Well, if you like being one string closer to being a Guitar Player.

 

[chadds]

Yes, we all agree to disagree.

I disagree.