I want to buy a bass VI (Fender, Burns or other) for a new two-piece project I'm starting. I've never been very good at playing guitar, so I wanted to know which one has the widest string spacing and is more "bass-like" in terms of playability.
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Bass VI string spacing
- Thread starter Gonzo476
- Start date
I have two Fender Bass VI's and the spacing is very close like a guitar. I have read that the Shergold from the UK has/had wider spacing.
As you say, the Bass VI is primarily intended for guitarists. Why aren't you considering a six string bass that's more geared towards bassists?
+1
I was GASsing so hard for a Bass VI and when i finally played one, I found it uncomfortable.
I don't know about other company's takes on the VI but the Squier VI I own is just like a guitar other than the 30 inch neck. I didn't like the bridge it came with and replaced it with a roller saddle guitar bridge so if you want to know how the Fender VI's play you can go to Guitar Center and play any Telecaster they have hanging on the wall and you will know what you are in for. I'm ok with that, I actually find it easier to adapt to the super narrow string spacing on the VI than I have to the various spacings and the wide necks on the fivers I have tried. If, however, you really want a bass-like string layout then I would think your best bet is to buy a six string bass that suits you and get a custom string set for it so that you can tune it as your project requires. The VI is really meant to be a bass for guitarists or a guitar for bassists and as a result it is very, very guitar-like. With custom string sets so easily available and affordable from a variety of suppliers any bass or guitar with the right number of strings and a layout that you like can be tuned almost any which way you might need. I'm tuning my Squier VI in fifths: CGDAEB. I may be the only one on Earth who does that and it is certainly not a tuning that Fender considered when they designed the thing but with the right strings, no problem! So get the instrument that suits you best and re-string it to do what you need to do.
Definitely play before you buy, man. I lusted after one so hard, and it was a big letdown. I think it's definitely a bass for guitarists and not the other way around.
Check out the Facebook group "Bass VI Players" for some good opinions and the perspective of VI players. IMO with the proper strings (I use LaBella rounds custom gauges: 026-036-044-056-080-100, standard tuning e to E), a bass amp and EQ it is indeed a bass guitar+. YMMV. As always its totally about the sound you are after. And you're the only judge of that. It takes effects very well too especially delay, chorus and flange. You should also check out the Schecter Hellcat VI and UltraCure VI which have very nice Duncan SJAG-1 pups. To be honest for a 2 piece group it would potentially be outstanding as it offers you so much sonic versatility and space. You could also bi-amp with a guitar amp for additional tone options.
The Bass VI produces a very "bass" sound--i was surprised considering the E string was on .95 and 30 inches. The spacing side to side is close, it does facilitate chording somewhat. I'm not a pick player but to get that signature tic-tac sound you really need to use one. The Squire is an interesting instrument--inexpensive enough to have just laying around as opposed to the Fender that is almost $500 more. I think I prefer the conventional bass though. Good hunting.
