4-string or 5 string

[Ocean]

hi, im gonna try and learn bass. Im wondering if any bassist can help me it out. Should i start with or 4-string bass or can a 5-string bass?

I think there are different techniques(read somewhere) to the 2 types of basses. Could any1 advise me on which to choose?

Thank you

[b33r]

imo, better to start with a 4-string. if you have solid music theory, you can try the 5-string, but if you play by tabs like me, go with 4.

different techniques for 4 and 5 stringers? don't think so, both are played the same way.

[Ocean]

Ok thanks for the heads up b33r! Appreciate it. Now i know where to start from.

[CrisisMoment]

What do you mean by solid music theory..? Don't understand haha

[b33r]

most songs are tabbed out for 4-string basses, so if you have a 5-stringer, you'll have to learn how to "convert" those so that you can play them on a 5-stringer. hard to explain, maybe those playing 5-stringers can elaborate, haha.

[Romeo_JR]

actually 5 string bass are mostly for bassist who like to use pop and slap technic..shd i say more advance bass player who remember the whole fret board in a 4 string...is actualli better to go for the 4string at the start...dun go for 5 string..is hard to play and slightly more heavier in the weight..=)

[EnEn]

hmm, I think it depends on the music/bands that you like. If they often have basslines which uses the low B, it might be better to get a 5string straight. It might be harder to play, but I think its worth it.

I'm regretting of not getting a 5 string at first. Now I have to scrimp and save again to get another bass before I can play my favorite songs

[KeDraiv]

the play style of the 5 string is very different from that of the 4 string although the 5 string bass just gives you an extra 5 notes. ( Eb D Db C B)

if you feel that you can manage the weigh of the 5 string and think that your hands are big enough, go for the 5 string by all means.

regarding the tabbing and music theory, both 4 and 5 string would require theory and all that to master it, so why not go for the 5 string?

that's imo.

if given the choice, get both.
and tune them to different tunings. =]=]

[Ocean]

hmm i guess when u break it down like that, i have no choice but to choose a 4-sting bass...my hands are pretty small for a 16 yr old...

What bass do you recommend i get? i've been reading tru threads, and alot of people suggested sx bass. If i do not want to get the sx starter pack, where else can i get sx basses?

[yuujin]

hi ocean
try davis.