• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Budget 5 string options

M

MethodsofDance

Guest
Nov 19, 2013
175
59
UK
#1
Basically I need a new 5 string for gigging purposes, that should be good enough to record with ideally (running through a Sansamp to juice up the tone for example). What I'm after is a beater, pretty much. Not junk, but not "great" as my budget right now doesn't allow for it. I've narrowed it down to 3 options:

ESP LTD B-55 - I like the shape and the P/J config, and the overall raw simplicity of it. Seen mixed reviews though. I had a B-205 for about a week and returned it cause I thought the pre-amp sucked, but I guess this one wouldn't have the same problem as the electronics are totally different.

Ibanez SR305 - SR's are my "go to" basses and I know I can just pick this up and play it well and comfortably. This is another one I've seen get some mixed reviews, but wether or not that's just gear snobbery I can't say for sure. I've also seen some people report problems with the bridge. I had a fretless 4-string of this bass a few years back, and it served me pretty well. Also arguably the most versatile bass on this list.

Jackson JS3VQM - With this one, I dig the 35" scale and the pointy headstock. I'm in a metal band so aesthetically this bass would be the obvious choice. I haven't been able to find very many good demos of this though. Unsure about the tone.


Opinions welcome!
 
#4
Maybe you would do better if checking out the BTB line of Ibanez basses. Their 5-strings are also 35" and the body shape may be cool for the metal music purpose.
I don't know if it's a relevant issue, but the string spacing on your bass of choice may play a role, too.
 
#5
The used market can get you a lot of bang for your buck if you are willing to dig a little bit. I was able to buy a Spector Legend 5 string for $350 and it was in good shape. I was able to sell it a couple years later for exactly what I paid for it within hours of it being on Craigslist. I've gotten a couple of Korean made Spector neck thru basses in the $500 range as well. You may be sensing a theme with me here but I would recommend exploring the used market, dig the classifieds here, Reverb, etc. not a fan of Ebay though.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back