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Recommendations for a Modern 5 String Bass

PrestoZoom

PrestoZoom

Nov 10, 2021
141
272
West Chester, PA
#1
I have multiple basses but I need to fill a hole in my collection. I'm looking to add a modern, 5-string bass.

Here are my preferred criteria:
  • 5 strings (BEADG)
  • Active bass with passive option (or at least quick access to a battery door) or passive bass
  • If active, I'd prefer a three band EQ
  • 24 Frets with good high fret access
  • In the 8-10 lb weight range
  • Side-mounted jack (or front mount but no strat-style jacks)
  • Punchy but versatile tone. Something which could play metal, funk, or jam band music.
  • String spacing can be anything between 17-19mm
  • I prefer a flatter radius fretboard (12" or greater)
  • 34", 35", or multiscale scale length (but I would like something that doesn't require hard-to-find strings)
  • Solid (or better) B string
  • New or used is fine
  • Ideally doesn't require some special case/gig bag due to shape (or includes said case or gig bag)
  • Max budget is $2K but I could go a little higher for a "keep it for life" bass that ticks all the boxes
I've already owned a Yamaha TRBX605 and a Spector Legend 5. While there were things I liked about both basses, I didn't love them and want to move on to something which makes me really happy.

I currently own a Reverend Mercalli 5, Fender Jazz 5, and Yamaha BB735a so I want something different from those tones. I play in a cover band that gigs regularly and focuses on rock/punk/country but those needs are covered by my current stable. I'm looking for something different and suitable for my side projects/jam sessions which cover more genres and require more versatility.

I'm looking to try out an Ibanez BTB locally as I think that might be a good fit but I haven't gotten one in my hands yet. I don't like the aesthetics of Dingwalls or EBMM Bongos (which I could probably find used in my budget) but I'm open to other suggestions.

What else should I consider in my search?

Thanks!
 
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#5
MTD KZ-5 (well below $2k), KZX-5 a little over, but the upgrade on the X version to Bartolini systems is well worth it. I just noticed ProAudioStar has them back in stock right now. Ask for the "b" stock, and they'll offer very close to that number for a new one, as they cannot advertise below MAP, but they'll sure do it with a phone call. Downside: no hands on. Upside: you can always return it.

I recently acquired an Ibanez BTB 1836 with Aguilar PUPs. Don't like the neck feel as much, simply due to the "natural" finish on the insanely coarse neck lumber, which I believe is Wenge. That stuff needs a filler.
The BTB sounds and plays real well, but the MTD just nails everything you're asking for, especially the solid, clear B. The asymmetric neck is very comfortable, and indeed, seems to reduce fret hand fatigue. Weight is pretty close to your range, on average, but the balance - you need to pick one up to realize how this counts every bit as much as the scale weight - maybe even more important.

About 2 years into the KZX-5 in live settings (60 shows per year average), and I cannot stress enough how this thing makes me sooo happy. Fat, round tone with a slight bump at 250Hz on the mids, otherwise flat EQ. Your fingers can pluck in a very civilized fashion and generate standard contemporary punch, and you can go beast mode, releasing a hell of a nice snappy snarl for a fill or signature riff in a tune, then relax right back into that smooth, round punch. MTD strings are the best on their instruments, including a taper-wound B at the saddle seat. Solid Jazz, P and classic MTD tones out of one instrument. Most well-rounded instrument I've ever owned.

Yep, you can pull the volume knob and run passive, but IME, it's utterly pointless, given the brilliance of that Bart PUP/Pre system. If you are insistent, I'd recommend dialing down the preamp micro adjust inside the control cavity, as the pre gives it a heck of a boost, even with eq's at dead center.

Okay- I'll let someone else speak now...
 
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#18
PrestoZoom said:
I'm looking to try out an Ibanez BTB locally as I think that might be a good fit but I haven't gotten one in my hands yet. I don't like the aesthetics of Dingwalls or EBMM Bongos (which I could probably find used in my budget) but I'm open to other suggestions.
Click to expand...

That was going to be my suggestion. I'm not a 5 string player but I've tried out the BTB and really liked it. It was the 945 model with that awesome Cosmic Blue finish, which looks totally different in person. It felt nicely put together - tuners and knobs were so smooth. Since I play short scales mostly, the neck felt incredibly long but it was still comfortable.

If I was forced to play a 5er, the BTB line is where I'd look.
 
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#19
Sire M6!

M6_HEADLESS_5_BK_SATIN_3.png
 
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#20
May not fit all of your needs - but gonna vouch for Ibanez, ESP, Sire, and Yamaha.

Ibanez and ESP have tons of options and I am gonna give Ibanez the edge a bit more. Great basses that are made to look the part for nearly all genres and just look nice. They have a lot to chose from for five strings, BTB is great personally I love the SR line.
 
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