I typed in this question on Google because I recently played a 5 string version of my own bass and noticed a difference. Thinking about it I can only assume the sound difference happens when playing with fingers, when you play a 4 string your thumb rests on the pick-up or board and I think this causes a more downward movement with more strength as apposed to bridging the b string which could limit striking follow-through distance therefore producing a slightly weaker (less beefy) sound on the E.
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General sound differences between 4-string and 5-string basses
- Thread starter DJ.D.
- Start date
Just shift to a four string already!
Statistics will tell you more successful people play 4 string anyway.
And statistics doesn't lie!
And here's why:
Many years training with the four string has given them tremendous creative skills.
They have taught them self to do with four strings what many couldn't do with a thousand!
Statistics will tell you more successful people play 4 string anyway.
And statistics doesn't lie!
And here's why:
Many years training with the four string has given them tremendous creative skills.
They have taught them self to do with four strings what many couldn't do with a thousand!
Last edited:
I've had a rather unique experience in this matter: I converted my Steinberger XL 4 string into a 5 string bass by changing out the bridge and the string holder at the nut. It does sound different - less full and less punchy. I'm wondering whether the increase in tension on the neck has something to do with the change in tone for all the strings not just the E string vs the presence of the B string in the magnetic fields of the pickups.
