Considering a Sadowsky

[ClassicJazz]

I got this Metro from Bass Central about a month or so ago....and love it! Every bit as good as my two NYC Sadowsky basses. Almost as light too....8.3 lbs

 

[Akito]

Nice basses guys, and thanks everyone for chiming in.
It's always good to hear that players are satisfied with a brand you are thinking about.
The point about 5 strings is well taken. I've owned mostly five strings for a long time and the safe play on any new bass would be to go 5. However, I do love a good four string as long as the neck isn't too narrow or shallow. Maybe it's just the change that I like, but I always enjoy playing a nice 4 string when I get my hands on one.
Thinking it over, if I am going to pick up a 4, I should probably go with a less expensive used instrument that wouldn't represent much of a financial loss if I decided I just couldn't live without a B string. I guess I just didn't expect to see two such appealing basses in stock with Sadowsky! It definitely got me thinking!
As far as the price difference between a new NYC and a Metro, well to me that's pretty substantial. A used NYC would have to be the right bass to catch my attention.
I wonder what the difference in price would be if I ordered the same metro, but a 5 string?

 

[DrSmaggs]

Get whichever one you want. I own two NYC models and I've played about a dozen Metros.... you really can't go wrong either direction... 4 or 5 string.

You could always get both!

 

[BartmanPDX]

First off, I'd buy used, from the TB classifieds, so that in case it isn't your thing (and Sadowskys aren't for everyone), you can flip it pretty easy and not be out much cash other than shipping. Sadowsky owners tend to take good care of their basses so it's almost like getting a new one, yet at a BIG discount.

Secondly, if you're down in Portland any time, you are welcome to try either of my Sadowsky 4-strings. I used to own a 5-string Metro UV70, but my band plays classic rock, so I've found that fours feel more natural for that type of music and I've sold off my fivers since they weren't getting played.

Been a while since the last NW GTG . . .

 

[SteveC]

I've never had a NYC. I have had 4 Metros - three 5's and one 4. The main difference - as many have said - is basically weight. Roger himself will tell you that unless you want a fancy top or some other special detail, get a Metro.

4 or 5 string is more complicated - at least for me. I struggle with trying to have "one bass to do it all" and that is tough - no matter who's making the bass.

I also have a little guilt financially. I could cover my gigs just fine with a Squier VM Jazz or Jaguar, but I like to have something a little nicer than that.

If you want to and can, I say go for it. They are awesome. Don't go cheap just because you think you may not like a 4 string. Things are a little slow now, but usually, you can turn a bass like a Sadowsky without too much loss.