I think I've mentioned my experience and thoughts previously . However ...
Took me sometime to even learn a 4 string. Once I was gigging on a fairly regular basis, all good.
I read long topics in the old Bassplayer mag 🇺🇸 Back in the early '90s . Treating the 4 stringers with baby steps . Very informative , and the thoight of ' if I get really good , maybe I should get one ' .
Fast forward to around 2005 , friend said ' let's go to sound control .' ( new shop at the time in Totttenham ct Rd.
So, I fell in love with a Schecter 5 string Stilletto Elite and purchased it .
Cue the remarks from band mates in rehearsal ' you don't need a 5 string ' etc. I received sneering and snide remarks
They didn't like its sound either .
I managed to get to grips with it: quite easily. However working long hrs and being in 2 bands at the time , I was not confident of avoiding Les Dawson impressions so it stayed at home . This was due to me moving around on stage energetically .
I just play at home now . I have a fretless which I took to a tech to tune B--E -A-D . I dabble in it now and again.
I also have a Digitech Bass whammy which I use for effects . TBh, I think 5 strings are great ,and handy if you're confident on stage and less energetic . Having said that, if I were gigging now I'd just use the Bass Whammy and have done with it ! This is if you're not a regular in recording studios , and playing the Dog And Duck where most of the crowd wouldn't be bothered .