So I have this bass...

[LeoSash]

It's a 6 string ibanez gio (the 206 i believe) and i was wondering how good that would be for jazz (a combination of 50's and 60's with one jazz-funk tune). I got positive feedback from my bandmates and i'm thinking i should, but i'm a bit undecided about it. I have a 4 string ibanez but it sucks (its on its last leg, unfixable fretbuzz had to fix the input jack twice, and the pick ups are pretty rusty.) Should i get a new bass? or stick with my 6 string? or the 4 string? and what does everyone else use?

P.S before anyone says upright, i have tried using it, and i'm pretty decent at it, however its too soft for the bigger band here, (2 electric guitars, 2 pianos, 2 drummers (switching on percussion) 2 horns, soon to be 3.)

 

[Crystalman85]

If you like Ibanez basses and if you're an advanced player, I would suggest saving a little more cash for a higher model Ibanez soundgear bass like the sr506 or if you don't mind having a 5-string bass instead an sr505 or an sra555. it may cost more than the Ibanez gio basses, but it's definitely worth it.

 

[LeoSash]

well personally i like having a 6 string, i'm finding uses for the B and i get solos too so the C string helps wonders. I actually jumped from 4 to 6, but i feel as though i don't get taken seriously enough by my teachers when i use it. 5 strings are ok, but if really could help it, i would definately get a 2nd 6 string.

 

[P. Aaron]

If the bass works, stick with it. If you want a subtle tone change, try different strings.

If you're looking for different tones, well musicians are always chasing them...only your inner musician will know if a different instrument is what you need.