• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Question for 5 string players regarding the neck size.

#61
My first 5 string was a Yamaha RBX5 with tighter spacing. I found it very difficult to switch between my 4 string and this instrument. The spacing was too close and made it difficult for me. Now, if I played the Yamaha all night without switching to the 4 I was fine. I just couldn't adjust between the two spacings.
 
#62
After having years playing 4 strings I got my first 5 string and discovered that tighter spacing is everything. Faster navigation, more comfortable, better on my plucking, the neck of a 5 being wider and fatter fits my hand better so it's helped me not get as fatigued from playing long sessions. The best neck for me is either a Warwick or Tobias. They both are great for my hand comfort. Ibanez SR is almost too thin but if I keep a fast action it's still comfortable. The tone is also super nice. But anyway my specs would be described as 16.5 or 17mm and 45mm nut. My preferred neck profile is a little bit flatter like a Warwick or asymmetrical like the Tobias. I have larger palms but shorter than average fingers. I think it has to do with why I like what I like. More room in the palm but easier access for the fingers. I never liked wide string spacing and I don't really care for the width of 6 strings.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 31HZ
#63
I have three 5ers:
  • 1.85" nut, 17.5mm spacing
  • 1.85" nut, 19mm spacing
  • 1.75" nut, 17.5mm spacing
I do find that slapping is easier/cleaner on the 19mm spacing. But I can do it on the narrower ones, it just takes more focus. I do think that the 1.75" nut width is my fav (my 4-strings are all 1.5" J-bass type necks), but after a few minutes I don't notice the wider ones as much, and agree that neck profile is as if not more important than nut width for me. I am curious to try an 18mm with a 1.75" or 1.80" nut, that seems like it'd be a sweet spot, but I'm happy with the ones I have.
 
#64
18mm / 1.75" nut is my happy spot.

Which is unfortunate; because many of the premium builders offer 19mm as a first option or 17.5 mm as backup. Fender interestingly chose 18.3mm, which is essentially 18mm; and particularly the 2007-ish USA J Deluxe basses are very impressive. Ken Smith is also standard at 18mm.

I have zero right hand issues with any of the spacings, and have gigged the whole range. My gripe with the 19mm neck tapers is that they feel like driving an 18 wheeler; BIG.

One has to try them to get the +/- feel; there is no "right" spacing. Personal Prefs; and somewhat builder availability.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back