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Short Scale 5 for travel

LadyLoveStingRay5

LadyLoveStingRay5

Jul 17, 2004
15,253
41,283
#1
Im considering an Ibanez Micro 5 or the TMB models from Ibanez. Any preference or recommendations? Im obviously not interested in spending more than $500. Just need something that I won't be upset if I have to check it on the plane and it gets some dings . Need something small enough for a possible carry on in a small gig bag but that sounds good with a good low B.
 
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#3
After years of travelling with a bass on vacations, I have come to accept that if it’s not a 34 inch scale it’s not worth the hassle of bringing. YMMV . I’d recommend going with a used Keisel. Their 34 inch five strings will fit in an overhead bin when permitted, and I have gate checked one on numerous occasions and even sent it through the baggage conveyor belt without issue. Other option that I currently use is a Klos with the neck removed, in a large wheeled duffel. If a shorter scale will truly work for you all the better, but with 34”, there’s no compromise if that’s what you’re used w.
 
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#4
lomo said:
After years of travelling with a bass on vacations, I have come to accept that if it’s not a 34 inch scale it’s not worth the hassle of bringing. YMMV . I’d recommend going with a used Keisel. Their 34 inch five strings will fit in an overhead bin when permitted, and I have gate checked one on numerous occasions and even sent it through the baggage conveyor belt without issue. Other option that I currently use is a Klos with the neck removed, in a large wheeled duffel. If a shorter scale will truly work for you all the better, but with 34”, there’s no compromise if that’s what you’re used w.
Click to expand...
Keisel headless?
 
#7
LadyLoveStingRay5 said:
Im considering an Ibanez Micro 5 or the TMB models from Ibanez. Any preference or recommendations? Im obviously not interested in spending more than $500. Just need something that I won't be upset if I have to check it on the plane and it gets some dings . Need something small enough for a possible carry on in a small gig bag but that sounds good with a good low B.
Click to expand...
FWIW I've taken my 35" scale Lakland on many domestic flights, carrying it a simple gig bag with absolutely no issues whatsoever. Except for maybe the other passengers asking me what band I'm in, where are you playing, etc. I've even had people go out of their way to make sure that when they stow their bags, they don't hit my bass too much.
 
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#9
ahbass2500 said:
If you are after headless 5 for under $500, used Steinberger Spirit XT25 will do it (like $550 new). I had a 4 string one years ago and it was surprisingly compact for a 34" scale bass.
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I have one of those that I bought purely as a backup (I don't travel with my basses) and it's okay if you're sitting down. It's uncomfortable and not very ergonomic for me when standing.
 
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#10
LadyLoveStingRay5 said:
Im considering an Ibanez Micro 5 or the TMB models from Ibanez. Any preference or recommendations? Im obviously not interested in spending more than $500. Just need something that I won't be upset if I have to check it on the plane and it gets some dings . Need something small enough for a possible carry on in a small gig bag but that sounds good with a good low B.
Click to expand...
I have the mikro 5 and love it. B is great. Overall it’s even better than the mikro 4’s imo.

Here’s a demo video i did of it years ago

 
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