robert43 Posted January 24, 2008 Share Posted January 24, 2008 Hi all I have just finished making a parts 4 string jazz bass & what I was wondering is the any advantage of a 5 string jazz bass over a 4 strong jazz bass. By that question I mean the cost ratio vs the sound / playablity Also with a 5 string neck does it feel really big compare to a 4 string neck thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bass_ferret Posted January 24, 2008 Share Posted January 24, 2008 I am sure with a little use of the search engine you can find no end of threads discussing (sometimes heatedly) the 4 vs 5 and upwards debate. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OutToPlayJazz Posted January 24, 2008 Share Posted January 24, 2008 Basically, if you need the extended range, it's going to be worth the extra outlay. I've never found a five I really liked and completely got along with. I have however, got along instantly with my Yamaha 6-stringer. Go figure! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bremen Posted January 24, 2008 Share Posted January 24, 2008 [quote name='robert43' post='126739' date='Jan 24 2008, 10:49 AM']Hi all I have just finished making a parts 4 string jazz bass & what I was wondering is the any advantage of a 5 string jazz bass over a 4 strong jazz bass. By that question I mean the cost ratio vs the sound / playablity Also with a 5 string neck does it feel really big compare to a 4 string neck thanks[/quote] Those low notes can be very useful. I have a Warmoth 4 and a Warmoth 5. There wasn't much difference in cost as far as I recall. I haven't found the neck width an issue, but the string spacing means you have to be a bit more careful when you thrash and flail. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gilmour Posted January 25, 2008 Share Posted January 25, 2008 [quote name='OutToPlayJazz' post='126749' date='Jan 24 2008, 11:01 AM']Basically, if you need the extended range, it's going to be worth the extra outlay. I've never found a five I really liked and completely got along with. I have however, got along instantly with my Yamaha 6-stringer. Go figure![/quote] Interesting, someone once said to me it can be an easier switch from 4 to 6 because it is so different you're more conscious of it? That said i'm a terrible 6 string player, but fine on 5. Whenever I'm playing with keys and horns I prefer to use a 5, just alittle more option for some of the keys those guys prefer. For guitar rock bands, I just stick with 4. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jwbassman Posted January 25, 2008 Share Posted January 25, 2008 [quote name='gilmour' post='127490' date='Jan 25 2008, 02:04 AM']Whenever I'm playing with keys and horns I prefer to use a 5, just alittle more option for some of the keys those guys prefer. For guitar rock bands, I just stick with 4.[/quote] +1 It's horses for courses - I use my fretless 5 with the big band and my fender P 4 with my blues rock trio - two different situations require two different approaches. With regards the cost - I've never built a bass from parts but I'm sure you'd be able to put a 5 sting together for similar money to you 4, there are several dedicated places (well documented on here) that bits are obtainable from and there's always eBay too.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kev Posted January 27, 2008 Share Posted January 27, 2008 you have a low B string/high C, the latter i find very useful Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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