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When should I switch to a 5 string?
- Thread starter turdgrub
- Start date
Currently the ultimate goal is an 18-string. You have to start playing thirteen minutes after your conception to eventually attain this skill level. I've heard one guy made it, but never got to play the thing because small aircraft kept landing on the fretboard.
Never.
But seriously, unless you really feel you NEED that extra string, there's no reason to get a 5 string. I've tried many a time to use 5+ string basses and just never found a use for those extra strings. Try out some 5 strings and see if you like them better then 4 strings. Good luck!
But seriously, unless you really feel you NEED that extra string, there's no reason to get a 5 string. I've tried many a time to use 5+ string basses and just never found a use for those extra strings. Try out some 5 strings and see if you like them better then 4 strings. Good luck!
I fixed that
My five-string transition happened that way, otherwise i would just convert a four-string to BEAD.
Playing bass isn't a process where you start on a four and progress from a four to a five to a six to .... ummm ... do I go to a seven string or do you start fretless ... does it have to be a four string fretless if you already progressed to a six string fretted ... lemme check the rule book ..... 
If you want a five, get a five. It really is that simple. I had my own reasons for playing a five so when I started, that's what I bought and that's what I've used exclusively. But there are millions of bassists who are far better than I'll ever be who only plays fours and only play fretted and they make absolute magic happen with them.
Bottom line, it's entirely up to you. Pick your instrument(s) and make them sing!
If you want a five, get a five. It really is that simple. I had my own reasons for playing a five so when I started, that's what I bought and that's what I've used exclusively. But there are millions of bassists who are far better than I'll ever be who only plays fours and only play fretted and they make absolute magic happen with them.
Bottom line, it's entirely up to you. Pick your instrument(s) and make them sing!
I had been playing bass for 20+ years, all four bangers and zero interest in a 5 string bass. Then I wanted to get a G&L L2000 and came across a really good deal here on TB for a L2500, so I decided to go ahead and get it. I am so glad I did, I love it. Took me almost no time to make the transition to the extra string. I still play the 4 string basses alot, but its great to have that extra range when I want it.
when your band says "we need you to ride a low D,C, or B" and you get sick of retuning your 4string all the time.
You must first own 3 differently coloured 7 string basses, and then go to the 5er.
Or try restringing first. I'm in the same boat as far as sniffing around the 5er:
On my lunch hour today (33 minutes) I am going to try the Big B World, and restring my ATK750KA BEAD. Looking forward to it.
Next will be : LMNOP...
Or try restringing first. I'm in the same boat as far as sniffing around the 5er:
On my lunch hour today (33 minutes) I am going to try the Big B World, and restring my ATK750KA BEAD. Looking forward to it.
Next will be : LMNOP...
When you are playing in the key of D and it just seems to you that it would be nice to have a way to play that low D note without having to detune.
Exactly. Add to it if you get tired of carrying multiple basses with different tunings. Despite that, I still play my four string basses the most.
