Who plays above the 5th fret?

[707GK]

The other recent thread got me thinking, there is a difference in the timbre of the note, depending on where you play it (likely due to changing string length, etc....I don't know all the physics but I'm sure it comes into play).

IE: 5th fret on the D string (G) sounds different than the 10th fret on the A string (same G)

There isn't a right or wrong answer, just wondering who prefers playing where?

I prefer playing above the 5th fret, if possible. There is something about the ultra-high frequencies and ultra-low frequencies that are "tamed" and the mids just sing. There is something about the notes on those upper frets...they sound more like an upright bass, but still have many qualities of an electric.

 

[Bass]

Normally I play the first four frets. This is how I was taught and probably it had to do with use of the open strings.

Over time I am finding fret 5 and above more attractive. Not only does that area sound good, it fits comfortably under the fingers.

 

[Killing Floor]

Jaco

 

[KohanMike]

I often play above the 5th fret, mostly when I want to walk the C to the F to the Bb and back, but conversely, I will also choose to play an open D and G instead of the 5th fret D and G.

 

[Killing Floor]

But really I play wherever it fits the key.

7 is pretty favored. But ya know Leo conspired against the 7th with the dead spot. It’s all spelled out in the Nicholas Cage movie.

 

[FunkHead]

I like how Graham maby uses the 1st 5 frets on the g string.

 

[matti777]

I have always been curious as to where on the neck the original artists played their songs. I sometimes try and watch live concerts to see. More often than not they play up the neck and not down. To me if you can stick to the E and A strings rather than go to the D and G there is a fuller tone. I think there are some other variables in there such as note length and movement but that is what I see.

 

[AFRO]

Yes.
I play a 5 string, so I like the 7-12 positions personally.

Low G on the B-string (8th fret) is lovely and gives me a two octave run of notes down to the 12 fret G on the G-string.

I also like to play 'closed positions' and the E on the B string (5th fret) sounds very round, and while its not above the 5th fret as the title suggests, I love playing Eb on the 4th position since I dont have to de-tune like I would playing a 4 string.

so Yes but obv, YMMV as its personal choice (and my equipment allow me to facilitate this due to the 5th string).

Stay Low.

 

[J_Bass]

Of course.

3rd to 9th frets is where the sound sweetspot is, in my opinion.

 

[Watchootognbout]

Most of the time I'm playing some one else's recorded lines that are in the first 9 frets.
But I do like to play chords and tap above the twelfth fret on my sixers.

 

[Groove Master]

The rich ones LOL

 

[Kevin Teed]

A couple months ago, when I was recovering from rotator-cuff surgery, I couldn't reach my hand past the 9th fret!

 

[Root 5]

I enjoy playing up in the dustier end. The notes have a fatter sound.
C at the 3rd fret A string doesn’t sound as full as the same note on the E string at the 8th fret. Etcetera.

 

[Harper]

E on the A string > E on the D string.

 

[db59]

When I come blazing in on that big 'ol bass slide from the 12th and beyond!!!

 

[OogieWaWa]

Depends on the song and sound needed. I fear no open strings or higher frets. Except my fat fingers have a little trouble above the 18th, but I still use them if need be.

 

[Diminishedfilth]

I do on The higher strings, but only on the B and E strings if I’m arpeggiating a chord (or if I need a quick shortcut).

 

[EddiePlaysBass]

I play all over the neck. Fretless, fretted and 5-string,don't matter. I'm all over it

 

[707GK]

A couple months ago, when I was recovering from rotator-cuff surgery, I couldn't reach my hand past the 9th fret!

Oh no!! I’m sorry to hear that! I hope you are healing up!

 

[p12bassnut]

I play the whole neck, why limit yourself ? That's what I say.