Does it make sense to own the same bass in different string combinations ?

[bkbirge]

No reason why not if it works for you do it. Just make sure your new 5 string feels and sounds as you expect.

Many years ago I sold a 1982 G&L L2000e to fund a more modern L2005 (5 string version) thinking it'd be the mostly the same but just with that extra string. I so wish I hadn't done that, the replacement felt and sounded nothing like the magic mojo in the one I sold.

The point is don't automatically assume the same model from the same company but just with 5 strings instead of 4 is going to sound and feel the same as what you have, go try it in person first!

 

[bassbenj]

This is talkbass. We can help you rationalize any bass purchase.

True. TB Rule: You can never own too many basses!

I have all kind of basses, Fender, Ibanez SR, G&L and so on. They are in 4,5,6,7,8 string some in fretless and I pick the ones to play that fit the current project whatever it is. Currently I love my G&L L2500 5 strings (actually have 3 of them...one fretless). But that is not cast in concrete. Some cats develop "their sound" and make a living with nothing but that. Others like me, try to create a whole musical image where the bass chosen is part of the final picture. I'm not saying one way is better but I've found it's even useful to have three identical basses where the only difference is the type/brand of strings on them! It's a personal choice. However, I will say that although I still own 4 string basses and will play them if the music demands it, I really very much prefer not to play 4 string basses anymore.

 

[bassbenj]

An advantage that can't be overstated if you like to use more than one bass but don't want to deal with EQ and volume differences.

I have a little 4 way passive mixer for multiple basses. (No, I don't take 4 basses to a gig) Lets you switch between basses and adjust volume of each to match. Only down side is that it has no provision when you need to adjust the AMP EQ controls between basses rather than on-bass EQ.

 

[JimmyM]

I have a little 4 way passive mixer for multiple basses. (No, I don't take 4 basses to a gig) Lets you switch between basses and adjust volume of each to match. Only down side is that it has no provision when you need to adjust the AMP EQ controls between basses rather than on-bass EQ.

I used to have one of them too. Don't know what happened to it, though.

 

[bassbenj]

I used to have one of them too. Don't know what happened to it, though.

Bad news is as far as I know they quit making them some time back.

 

[Bubble]

The Musician's Union does not allow multiple strung basses at the same venue.
I wonder if they make Guzheng basses ?​