Tomsk

[quote name='Dad3353' timestamp='1500544755' post='3338561'] Good morning, Tom , and ... Plenty to read and amuse you here, and lots to learn and share. Our youngest (coincidentally also names Tom..!) had expressed an interest in playing bass, a few years ago, but wanted, from the outset, a five-string active bass (I already had 4-stringers, but he wanted his own, so...). We bought him a Cort fiver; shortly afterwards I received as a present from our eldest a fretless 6-string, which Tom immediately adopted, and has played nothing since. He learned fast, and quickly become the 'official' bassist in our pop/rock covers band (I play drums, our eldest guitar, plus two buddies...), playing stuff from Muse, RATM, Deus and much more. The scale length, neck width and lack of frets has not made the slightest difference to his progress; he just went with it and ran, although he's more on the 'slightly-built' side. It can be done, so don't be afraid, just jump in and enjoy the swim. Just my tuppence-worth; hope this helps. [/quote] Your Tom has both the benefits of youth and a knowledgeable and interested father. I am old, knackered and self-taught, cursed with cheaty fingerings that get me through but cannot be unlearned.

Thank you alll for both your warm welcome and advice. Looks like I'm buying the Ibanez tomorrow

Hi All, Long standing Hobby Drummer here looking to expand his very ordinary bass playing. I have been known to plonk about on bass in a pedestrian, workaday fashion under protest and can just about find my way around the fret-board, but have nothing in the way of technique, feel or nuance with either hand. I am short and fat with small hands so think my best bet would be something with a fast-ish neck and not too heavy. I know of a 5 string Ibanez sr (305 I think) for sale for beer money which looks like it would fit the bill, a few dings but otherwise sound, looking around they seem to be a respected bit of kit at their price-point. I am concerned about the low B though and don't want to overcomplicate matters. What do you think? Tom