Preserve the 4 string basses!

[moopants]

Years ago, everyone used 4 string basses. Then, the 5 string bass was invented, and it was known as an extended range bass (ERB). Now, it seems that 5 and even 6 string basses aren't even ERBs anymore. They are almost staples to a bassist's collection. What will happen 20 years from now? Will a 4 string bass even exist? Will 6 string basses be normal? Will there be a 24 string single course??????

 

[tplyons]

The 4 string bass will always be there. Whether or not it's the standard is another question.

Staples to bassist collections? Maybe one fiver for a four string player but that's about it.

 

[BartmanPDX]

The 4 string bass will always be there. Whether or not it's the standard is another question.

+1. I can't remember the last time I saw someone play a six-string bass on stage, and fivers aren't even close in sales to four string models. Go into any large music store and see what's on the wall -- my guess is at least 70% of them will be fours, and you'd be lucky to find a single six-string for sale.

 

[The Craw]

+1. I can't remember the last time I saw someone play a six-string bass on stage, and fivers aren't even close in sales to four string models. Go into any large music store and see what's on the wall -- my guess is at least 70% of them will be fours, and you'd be lucky to find a single six-string for sale.

You are correct, sir. Unless it's a specialty store like Bass Central or Bass NW, 4 string basses will be well over 70% of sales at most stores, and holding steady.

I'm glad everyone has choices, but 4s aren't going away and aren't even in decline.