How to - Zero confusion 4 vs 5 string.

[darwin-bass]

I just discovered something. I'm sure I'm the first EVER to figure this out

If you want to go from 4 string to 5 string with zero confusion, do two things:

1. Get a 5 string with wide spacing and the same scale length as your 4 string.
2. Don't look at the neck when you play.

I figured this out while practicing my reading skills. While I'm looking at the music, my hands are just going to the right place. Switching between 4 and 5 string was absolutely seamless. It felt completely natural.

Just don't look!

 

[topo morto]

Don't look at the neck when you play.

But then won't you forget which bass you are holding?

 

[M.R. Ogle]

So I don't get confused... I only play at NIGHT!

 

[topo morto]

Another way is just to tune all strings to the same note, so it doesn't matter which you are playing.

 

[christianharger]

I think that simply spending a good amount of time with each in practice routines will eliminate any confusion. the goal, I think, is to be comfortable with at least all of your owned instruments.

 

[huckleberry1]

I've found the same to be true with fretless for me.