Long and short?

[Kurtenstein]

I play on a Yamaha BB414 that I like very much. It is, of course, a long scale bass. I'm looking for a second instrument, both to use as a backup and to experiment with new tones. I'm eyeing a Squier Mustang in the local ads. The latter being a short scale bass, will I be able to easily switch between the two instruments, or should I stick with long scale basses?

Thanks!

 

[ahbass2500]

You will probably be able to switch, but everyone is different. Have to try if you want find out.

 

[tonym]

When first moving to a short scale it took a little adjustment, but it normalized (meaning I didn't have to think about it at all) in just a few hours. I have no problem switching back and forth between long and short, but I do a warm up that has me jump around the fret board a bit. It sort of sets the right muscle memory in place.

 

[ajkula66]

How long have you been playing bass ?

If you're somewhat of a seasoned player, the scale switch shouldn't screw up your muscle memory much, if at all.

 

[Wasnex]

IMHO, if you play both regularly, it's unlikely to be a problem.

 

[Derek Kay]

I imagine it would be more difficult with a fretless.

 

[Kurtenstein]

How long have you been playing bass ?

If you're somewhat of a seasoned player, the scale switch shouldn't screw up your muscle memory much, if at all.

Thank you for asking: about 6 years. I played drums in my teens and as a young adult. Started bass in the mid 40s. Am I considered "seasoned"?

 

[Kurtenstein]

I imagine it would be more difficult with a fretless.

 

[ajkula66]

Thank you for asking: about 6 years. I played drums in my teens and as a young adult. Started bass in the mid 40s. Am I considered "seasoned"?

Do you *feel* seasoned ? Six years is not a short period of time by any means and one can achieve significant skill within that timeframe if they practice.

I'd say go for it. If you end up not liking the short scale journey, you won't lose your shirt either having invested in a Squier Mustang.

My $0.02 only...

Good luck.

 

[JonathanPDX]

My two main basses are a 34" and a 30". There is a difference, when I play the short bass for long periods of time the longer one feels like it takes more effort when I pick it back up. It's not particularly difficult or a barrier to playing but you do notice the difference and if you don't have a lot of muscle memory developed then it might throw you just a little bit until you adjust.

 

[Sam versus]

I doubt you'll have any trouble.