Double Bass convert 4 to 5, width??

[salbassrock]

so..........just fantasizing about converting my 4 string upright to a 5 string. One question, how wide is wide enough? of course im talking about the fingerboard and nut {assuming im using regular strings, nothing too thick}. Also, if i wanted a higher string, would it be possible to use a D string? that would make tenor clef easier to read i know it's alot to talk about, but it's the week after the Season Closing concert; now there's time to think about stuff

 

[DoubleMIDI]

The higher string is a C string. I only know one D string available and you don't want to use this one. You gould get something in gut if you ask a manufacturer.

You know that the pressure on top and the bending force on the neck gets higher with one more string (even with the high one).
If you can use Spiro Mittel or better Stark on you bass without choking it might work going to softer strings.
But the best idea is to get a different 3/4 5-string for a high-C 5er. Don't get a scale longer than 105cm (42 inch) for high C. It is complicated enough to get high C strings that could be played in thump position.

Try to play on a high-C equipped instrument first or get some high C string to try on your current instrument. After that decide if you want a high C at all. It took a lot of time to get used to the higher string, now I have some problems playing normal four string basses.

 

[nukes_da_bass]

I also consider having my DB converted from 4 to 5, but it would be BEADG. This would get my basses consistently BEADG from fretted and fretless electric right to my DB which is an ancient Kay M1.
Other than narrow string spacing, what would be the downside to this? I do not bow at all and consider DB to be purely a hobby- I only gig on slabs!

 

[Eric Hochberg]

my DB which is an ancient Kay M1.
Other than narrow string spacing, what would be the downside to this? I do not bow at all and consider DB to be purely a hobby- I only gig on slabs!

As said above, the extra stress on the top and neck joint, plus the narrow, thin neck. If you want a 5er, get one built that way. I just saw a Kay 5er for sale somewhere...

 

[nukes_da_bass]

Thanks Eric.
There are two on EBay for a while now. This is a tough business year for me- I covered all my GAS last year doing direct trades here on TB but kinda doubt I could convince anyone to trade a 5 for a 4
Besides I love my old Kay. I would hate to end up with "sellers remorse", everything about her voice and feel is what I want in a DB ( then again it's the only DB I have ever owned!).