Fundamental Questions

[Psycho Ward]

. I share my home "office" with eight 10-inchers and 550 watts for no reason other than just because I can!

Now that's what I like to hear! Rock On!

[MrShakespeare]

Hi,

If you're just starting to learn bass, stay at four. There is enough to learn with a four-string. However, if you want a general "work horse," go with the five. The low B is there for doubling the lower octave of the piano, for example, synth bass.

Or you could have one with a high C string which is what some people prefer if you are into a lot of Jazz (melodic soloing, etc.).

But since it seems you know what you want to play, I would go with four strings unless you are into the kind of rock considered progressive like King Crimson where you would either need a low B or a de-tuned E string.

Hope this helps!

[roballanson]

I'm no help at all.

Me too Bov...except I play from punk to Jazz using the one SR5...never had any problems apart from occasionally shaking glasses of bars with the low B....

[Moondog]

Nashman,
you'll find that this forum also helps promote the "passion"
and is kinda like a candy store for bassists.

[strummer]

I'll ask for forgiveness and thank you in advance right up front! I don't know alot about bass gear. I currently own a 4-string Yamaha bass and I'm considering trading up to an EB. I can't decide between a 4/5-string. I assume the 5th string is a low B. Is the B string frequently or infrequently used? Is a 5-string neck wider, and/or are the strings closer together - therefore making the bass more challenging to play? I learn songs via tabulature ... most of the ones I have seen are for 4 string .. are there 5 string tabs? What are the advantages/disadvantages of each? (I have never played a 5-string).

I like to play classic rock. Again, I'm having a tough time deciding between models. Is one model more popular/best bang for the buck/better quality? Which model/pick-up configuration would be best for rock music? Should I spend the extra for the Piezo bridge ... what does it do? Coil pickups and humbucker- what's the difference?

A lot of questions!

Not that I have a lot to contribute, but here goes:
I suggest you get a 5-string, because you will a)Be able to play lower notes, b)Avoid lots of position shifting and c)Immediately impress the non-bass-playing audience that without hesitation equals playing a 5-string with wou knowing what you are doing. I know all three to be true

Edit (I forgot there was more stuff in your Q)
They're all great bang for the buck, and the cost of the piezo is offset by the expanded tonal palette available to you.
I like the dual pickup (2 humbuckers) Bongos, but the ones with a single coil by the neck do have an appealing tone not available form the HH.


Oh, and IMHO get a Bongo, they are the grooviest basses ever built!

[nashman]

Hey Nashman-

I'm in Toronto (actually San Jose this week, but I'll be back Monday) - I have a Bongo 5 w/ piezo and a SR4 at home.

If you're interested in checking them out you're more than welcome to come on over and play. I live mid-town.

Jason

Jason ... Thank you for the very fine offer! I live in the GTA, not right in Toronto and I don't get mid-town very often. I think the next phase of my journey is a number of local music stores. I just hope I don't get further confused by Sales types.

Thanks once again to everyone for your comments and encouragement!!!

[Bill]

Nashman,
you'll find that this forum also helps promote the "passion"
and is kinda like a candy store for bassists.

Ain't that the truth! Since I've been here, I've traded a Stingray, acquired 2 more Stingrays, and am well on my way to a new rig.

[Rayan]

... I think the next phase of my journey is a number of local music stores. I just hope I don't get further confused by Sales types.

~
ok nashman - so you've decided you *may* want to take the plunge and start shopping for a new bass - maybe even one that will last " 'til death do you part" ...

this is a very serious mission - imo, finding a "BASSic 'bridal agent" (bass retailer) is the most important and most difficult part of the task - a truly fine, honorable and qualified "agent" (wife hunter) is not someone you take for granted - there are good ones out there, but they hide very well ...

personally, I'd start here >
http://www.ernieball.com/mmonline/dealers/
~

keep us informed,
/R

[nashman]

The saga continues ... I took the day off today to do house projects, but made a detour to the local music store. I had a Bongo 4 HH and an SR 4 in my hands for the first time. I may never wash my hands again I didn't have a lot of time this trip, however I will go back armed with a list of questions and ask to play them.

I have also been on the Bass Central WEB site and in contact with the Folks there. They can only ship used or discontinued special edition models to Canada from the USA. Is there any advantage to buying from a store ... warranty etc. versus a private sale?

I'm now thinking of buying a used/top condition/late model, SR4/SR5 or Bongo HH. I would be great if anyone has one for sale to attach a picture to a reply.

Thanks ...

[Rayan]

... Bass Central WEB site ... can only ship used or discontinued special edition models to Canada from the USA. Is there any advantage to buying from a store ... warranty etc. versus a private sale? ...

~
hey nashman ... maybe BP can throw some guiding light down from above - are we doomed to stealing each other's wives ? - always settling for sloppy seconds ? - unless of course you like that kind of action !
~

/R