What's best for slap, 4 string or 5

[FunkJazz]

Most of the slap players I see on YouTube or other videos are playing a 4 string bass. Is there any benefit or negative to playing slap on a 5 string? I bought a 5 string and am learning how to slap, but it is not easy and I am thinking it may be easier to control with only 4 strings. Any ideas??
Thanks.

 

[J. Crawford]

The string spacing is usually tighter on 5 strings, so the space to get your finger in is less, and the ability to hit just one string is harder, especially for someone just learning.

 

[SpamBot]

Whatever you're most comfortable with is best. Ideally, you would be able to slap well on both.

 

[Subscript]

In general, 4 string basses have wider string spacing that some people find easier for slapping. There are plenty of slap players who are fantastic on 5 or even 6 strings, but for me I find it much easier to do on a 4.

Some 5 string basses have wider spacing, but most are narrow compared to 4s.

 

[FunkJazz]

Thanks Guys, I bought a 4 string Ibanez. It is way easier to hit the right string and control the other strings since there are only 4 to deal with. I am a lot more comfortable with it since I played a 4 string years ago. I was getting a lot of noise out of the B on the 5 string , it was always in the way and I could not get a good tone out of it when I did hit it. Maybe some day when I learn to slap and control my thumb, I will be ready for a 5.