If you have experience playing a 4-string bass guitar Learning to Enjoy Bass Guitar - Do you enjoy bass guitar? A bass guitar is a four-stringed instrument that typically accompanies a lead guitar. Some bass guitars have additional strings, with 5 or 6 strings in total. Bass guitars produce lower tones, and an electric bass guitar is connected to an amplifier for enhanced sound. When learning to play the bass… , you might enjoy playing a 5string bass. The 5-string variety is becoming increasingly popular, as bass players seek a broader range of sounds without constantly moving up and down the fretboard. The rise of 5string bass guitars began in the late 1980s, coinciding with the emergence of darker and thicker sounding music that has continued into the present. A 5-string bass guitar is essentially a 4-string bass with an additional B-string on top. The strings are closer together, allowing for easier movement around the neck. A 5-string bass also simplifies playing songs in drop D tuning.
If you are new to bass guitar in general, starting on a 5-string bass will not be a disadvantage. It will also make transitioning to a 4-string bass quite simple if you ever need to play one. Of course, owning both a 4-string and a 5string bass is ideal if you can afford it.
When purchasing a 5string bass, the old adage holds true: you get what you pay for. Higher-priced basses generally offer better quality, features, and sound. However, this does not mean there aren’t affordable models available that will suit your needs. Before buying your first 5-string bass, consider reading some reviews. Reviews can be found on various websites or in bass guitar forums. If you have a local music store nearby, most will allow you to try one out on the shop floor. Pay close attention to the feel and sound of the bass, and ensure it is in tune and stays in tune.
A few reputable online retailers are often the best places to find competitive prices on 5string bass guitars. Additionally, eBay consistently maintains a large inventory of used and gently used 5-string basses. Pay attention to the seller’s feedback and make sure to view photos and assess the condition of the bass. For older models, you can frequently visit the manufacturer’s website and review past guides to discover the features included with the bass. Just because a bass is discontinued does not mean it’s a bad instrument. Manufacturers are simply updating the design and improving the craftsmanship. My favorite 5-string bass is one that was produced in the early 1990s.
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