What's the best Medium Scale (32") 5-string you've played?

[5_Stringer]

I’d have say the Ernie Ball MusicMan Sterling 5HH (USA-made in San Lois Obispo, CA). This was my first medium scale bass and it improved my playing comfort in a way I wasn’t aware I was struggling with. I wound up buying 2 (see images).
However, hands down, the best 32” medium scale bass I own is a custom Pete Hilton Workhorse 5. Craftsmanship is off the charts (Pete worked with Carl Thompson for many years) and the playability is extraordinary. It’s the most comfortable bass I own (see image) and now my primary instrument. Well worth the $$$ and year long wait.
In my experience, including feedback from audio engineers I work with, there’s no negative to these instruments sitting in the mix. The B strings are tight, deep and I frequently hear the bass sits nicely in the mix against 2 guitars, keys & a slamming rock drummer.
Bottom line, if you’re more comfortable and not struggling with an instrument, you’re going to play better. Depending on your personal physicality, the medium scale 32” bass is worth exploring and may improve your playing experience.

 

[Akami]

I’d have say the Ernie Ball MusicMan Sterling 5HH... This was my first medium scale bass and it improved my playing comfort in a way I wasn’t aware I was struggling with.

Is this a typo or was there actually a medium scale Sterling?

 

[frankie5string]

Is this a typo or was there actually a medium scale Sterling?

As far as I know, the Sterling H and HH were 34" scale...

 

[Akami]

As far as I know, the Sterling H and HH were 34" scale...

I'm positive they are and had to read through that post several times to verify that he was saying both of his were his first medium scale basses.
If there's actually a medium scale MusicMan Sterling out there, in any format, I want it.

 

[5_Stringer]

Gents,
I stand corrected, with egg on my face. After seeing your responses, I broke out the tape measure and confirmed your posts are correct. The EBMM Sterlings are a 34” scale (I was told differently at time of purchase… by gones).
I value TB and its commitment to providing accurate info to our community, so I’ll be a man and correct the mistake. Thanks for pointing out the error.

 

[LarryT]

I bought a Mezzo 5 and I think it sounds pretty good and plays well. I haven't tried in a band setting. I got it to try a five string for jazz. I put Dunlop flats on it which are pretty bright for flats and sound good. The selection of 32 inch flat wound strings for fivers is limited. I don't remember how the original b string was. On these Dunlops anyway the B is not perfect, but I changed a few things to make it acceptable. I feel like the notch in the bridge saddle is too narrow, so I replaced that saddle with a brass barrel type from an old bridge. On that saddle I opened up the notch with a file. I also put a small lead wrap on the string near the bridge to dampen overtones. I also lowered the P pickup a lot. Pretty happy with it. The B string is balanced with the other strings and the fundamental is solid. I boost the bass control some and cut treble a bit.

 

[jeffmaccora]

I bought a Mezzo 5 and I think it sounds pretty good and plays well. I haven't tried in a band setting. I got it to try a five string for jazz. I put Dunlop flats on it which are pretty bright for flats and sound good. The selection of 32 inch flat wound strings for fivers is limited. I don't remember how the original b string was. On these Dunlops anyway the B is not perfect, but I changed a few things to make it acceptable. I feel like the notch in the bridge saddle is too narrow, so I replaced that saddle with a brass barrel type from an old bridge. On that saddle I opened up the notch with a file. I also put a small lead wrap on the string near the bridge to dampen overtones. I also lowered the P pickup a lot. Pretty happy with it. The B string is balanced with the other strings and the fundamental is solid. I boost the bass control some and cut treble a bit.

The Mezzo 5 is one of the best I've played in the medium scale 5-string family. Really really good for the money. I only wish Ibanez made it with a rosewood fretboard instead of maple. It is a shame they stopped making them. Maybe I will write them a letter!