First up, welcome to TB! Always nice to see a new name.
And now, to business.
Squier basically offers three levels of bass: Affinity, Vintage Modified (VM), and Classic Vibe (CV).
Their CV series (abd some VM models) are (IMO) on par with a MIM Fender. If your experience with a Squier dates back to one built prior to 2012 or thereabouts (or is an Affinity model) you need to check out Squier’s more recent CV and VM series basses.
You are also correct in your realization there’s no truth to whoever told you that it’s foolish wanting to start in a 5-string bass. It no different than starting on any other bass. Many players switch back and forth freely between 4, 5, and 6-string basses. All of them are tuned in ascending fourths (i.e. 4=EADG or BEAD, 5=BEADG or EADGC, 6=BEADGC) so there’s no string tuned only a third to be aware of like there is with standard guitar tuning. Because of that the fingering and scale patterns are symmetrical across the fingerboard. Makes getting the fingerboard sussed out a whole lot easier.
Rotosounds. Good choice! One of my favorite strings. Can feel a little rough on the fingers at first for some people. But you’ll acclimate to them pretty quickly.
Only real advice I’d like to offer is to say the most important thing to do if you want to play bass is to start playing bass as soon as possible. And pay attention to safe fingering technique to avoid repeat motion soreness and possible injury. If you don’t already know what safe bass fingering technique is, have an experienced and knowledgeable player or teacher show you.
Welcome to the tribe. And good luck!
