Are 5 strings on the way out?

[Low Key]

This question comes up every once in a while. Once I got used to a 5-string, I couldn't think of a reason to go back to a 4-string. The ability to have more hand position choices playing in keys (especially F down to D) is well worth the extra string. I can always stick to the top 4 strings if I need to for some reason, and then the B string just makes a nice thumb rest. In fact, if I switch from active to passive and I have a bass equivalent to any traditional, passive 4-stringer.

I've purchased 4-bangers here and there, but always end up selling them. Why have fewer choices on fingerings and hand positions?

If the 4 is more comfortable, great. Use it. But a "trend" of using this or that is of no relevance to me. I don't like 6-stringers but think it's cool if others like it.

 

[FunkHead]

I just order the same bass as a 6 string just to cast a little shade on this thread.

Sweet! Would love to see it.

 

[getBAK]

in the music industry, nothing is on its way in or out.
It maybe the purest form of 'however you get it done'

 

[chadds]

From “New History of the Double Bass” :

The earliest illustration in the history of the string bass dates from 1516, but written accounts record instances of “viols” as large as a person, and the deep register tuning is notably found first among the viol family. These early instruments were tuned in various ways. Either just using fourths (unlike many stringed instruments that tune by fifths), or by a combination third and fourth tuning, depending on the instrument itself.

However, research has revealed that there were as many as 50 different tunings used during the history of the string bass. In fact, until the tuning of the early 20th century basically solidified the E-A-D-G (lowest to highest), many composers and musicians specifically requested notes lower than the low E.

 

[TolerancEJ]

View attachment 3549891Number 5 isn't going out like a punk.

Good point. Johnnys' Numbered 1-4 have never achieved popularity.

 

[TolerancEJ]

Hi folks
What a great and funny thread!
...I was the first guy in my hometown to play a five string. Everybody had to make a comment about that...
Wise(b)ass

I was also among the first in my area to have a 5-string. I heard much of the same, but people liked hearing the lower notes.

 

[TolerancEJ]

From “New History of the Double Bass” :

The earliest illustration in the history of the string bass dates from 1516, but written accounts record instances of “viols” as large as a person, and the deep register tuning is notably found first among the viol family. These early instruments were tuned in various ways. Either just using fourths (unlike many stringed instruments that tune by fifths), or by a combination third and fourth tuning, depending on the instrument itself.

However, research has revealed that there were as many as 50 different tunings used during the history of the string bass. In fact, until the tuning of the early 20th century basically solidified the E-A-D-G (lowest to highest), many composers and musicians specifically requested notes lower than the low E.

Correct. Some double-bass owners would have C-extensions added to their bass.

 

[J-Mags]

Nothing ever really goes out of style anymore. By the time it's been determined that something's out of style, it's back in. Occasionally an instrument will cool its heels in some corner of the internet for a couple of years.

Look at pointy guitars. They were supposedly out of style in the 90s, during which time, Ibanez still sold tons of them, and by the time anyone noticed, Nu Metal was a thing.

Also, if anything falls out of favor to the extent that the price drops, the next generation, in search of cheap, interesting instruments, will pick it up.

I've never had any interest in having any more strings than I already do, thanks.

 

[Ric5]

For those of you who only play a 4 how do you play music that has bass parts written with notes lower than the low E?

 

[74hc]

Some bass players go to great lengths to not play a 5 string bass ...

like this guy … one neck tuned BEAD and one tuned EADG

That guy is older than me, and appears to be going to heavier basses. I need to suck it up and stop complaining about mine.

 

[logdrum]

I never liked 5's but I like 6. And mostly use 4s and even have my old fretless tuned in 5th's CGDA. For me 5's have been gone 10 years ago.

 

[FenderP]

The sky is falling! Oh wait ...

Own and play what you want.

 

[40Hz]

They still sit up and take notice!

Hi WB!

I think it’s more more for your playing than for your bass.

Or at least I hope so!

 

[Matty Koff]

That guy is older than me, and appears to be going to heavier basses. I need to suck it up and stop complaining about mine.

He also has a nice chunk of money and can afford to pay people to lug those heavy bass guitars around =x.

 

[Jehos]

Yeah, bassists just aren't into low notes anymore.

 

[MrLenny1]

I got my first 5 string in 1991. I use them for every gig. All five strings.
Just gives you way more range, and it's a four string with a great thumb rest
when U need it.
I say they are not going out.
New Country and Pop has a lot of low B tunes.

 

[rollie 55]

Mine are not. And that's all that matters to me.

all i can say is

 

[JimmyM]

All you need is a five string. Just ignore the low b and it's an instant 4 string!

But if it's not there, no need to ignore it. Sorry but I'm N/I. Like I said, I'll use mine when I absolutely have to, but that's it.

 

[Wisebass]

Hi 40Hz

Or at least I hope so!

Hope will never die!

Wise

 

[JimmyM]

There is no magic on this planet that makes a passive Fender 5 jazz 34" scale bass sound like a 35" scale or longer with active dual humbuckers.

Familiar with replacement electronics?