First 5 string: G&L Lakland Spector Peavey?

[Quothd]

My first 5-string was a Spector Euro 5 ex.

Great as a bass & plays / sounds fantastic - doesn't keep it's value though as paid an arm and a leg for it 3 years ago & now people seem to want me to give it away free with a Happy Meal

 

[JoZac21]

I'd go with the G&L, Lakland as a second choice...

Personally, I'm not a fan of Spectors... I find they tend to have too much of there own sound... when I pick up a Spector, I don't sound like me, I sound like the bass... their sound overrides my tone and playing style... YMMV.

 

[Soundchaser11460]

G&L without a doubt..

 

[rayzak]

Yeah, for me it would be between the G&L and the Lakland as well. Whichever is more comfortable being the deciding factor. Though I do like the Spector as well.

May want to consider the Sterling Ray35, by Music Man too. It's also a nice playing, Leo Fender 'style' 5-string. Just a thought. You're on the right track, though.

And keep you eyes on the classifieds here, you may be able to find a used Lakland 55-02 near your price range, which I would take over any of the others.