5-String Vote

[RocketRalf]

I like the 20th, looks-wise it is my dream bass, plus classic Stingray tones and many more...

 

[adouglas]

if youre not in a hurry id suggest waiting untill you see what the gamechanger will bring..
one more week and youll know

MrM

We do know some things already that could very well impact the decision.

Mostly, that the Gamechanger is available only in the Reflex body style, so if the aesthetics aren't apollo's thing then it's a bit of a non-starter.

 

[projectapollo]

Of the choices listed I went Big Al, mostly because that's what I'd personally choose.

The 5-string roasted Big Al sure looks great in that package. I had a 4-string Big Al for a few months and really really liked it - tone options and playability and push-buttons and Jetson's style. Definitely need to get a roasted one into the collection.

Actually, my pre-ordered 4-string roasted Big Al will be here Tuesday from Pete. But back when I ordered it, I was strictly a 4-string guy. Since then, my proficiency with the 5-er is growing, almost preferred at this point. Odd, I'm finding it easier to go from 4 to 5 than back from 5 to 4 in terms of staying oriented to the note positions on the neck. And I'm learning the correct strength/pluck to use on the B-string to make it sound and blend properly. Nice not having to reach way down the neck for an F#, with the 5. Having a low octave D is real handy, too, for songs in A, D, and G. That low D sounds firm and professional on my 20th SR5.

If I could arrange a swap of the roasted Big Al from 4 to 5, I'd probably go that way and make it my go-to bass.

Soon, I will have way too many basses! Want to pick the best of breed and sell a few after that. Stay posted....

 

[Alvabass]

All of them are terrific basses for sure. Actually, I love the superb versatility of the Big Al SSS, but being the Bongo the only EBMM model with a 24-fret fingerboard, that's what makes me choose it over the other contenders.

 

[MrDigory]

Other than a friend dropping my bass when he shouldn't have been even near it, I absolutely adore my 5 string bongo. BUT, I don't slap. I know some people do on a 5 string, but I have tried practicing, and I find the strings too close. That is the only negative I would say regarding the bass.

It has a WIIIIDE range of USABLE sounds, and some sounds I don't think anyone would think to use lol. It feels very natural for pick and finger playing, and it's not THAT heavy.

 

[sometypeofplay]

I own a bongo, but voted for the big al. Something about that one you've got pictured draws me in like a moth to a flame.

 

[Jimmyb]

I voted for the Big Al, but there wasn't an option for 'All of the above'.

I'd be happy with any of them from the list.

 

[danny-79]

I voted for the 20ith, I'm still on the hunt for a Bongo but a reflex 5HH..... big smile

 

[MrMusashi]

We do know some things already that could very well impact the decision.

Mostly, that the Gamechanger is available only in the Reflex body style, so if the aesthetics aren't apollo's thing then it's a bit of a non-starter.

i know we have seen it in the reflex shape (which some nashville dude claimed he was hoaxed to let go again)
perhaps the package will be offered in other forms than that?
you know.. the big al share the same electronics package as the reflex
and last year nobody knew more than that there was going to be a 25th.. big al wasnt mentioned at all even though we saw a prototype body...

i for one, cant wait till next week

MrM

 

[Basswave]

Stingray 5 HH
I think a Roasted neck with Maple board
Classic white with a dark tort board would be snappy...

 

[adouglas]

i know we have seen it in the reflex shape (which some nashville dude claimed he was hoaxed to let go again)
perhaps the package will be offered in other forms than that?
you know.. the big al share the same electronics package as the reflex
and last year nobody knew more than that there was going to be a 25th.. big al wasnt mentioned at all even though we saw a prototype body...

i for one, cant wait till next week

MrM

I believe that BP said it'd be reflex only "at first" or somesuch. So that's what I expect will be announced at NAMM.

Next year, who knows?

 

[oli@bass]

I definitely like the pushbutton pickup selector switches on the 4-string 25th and Big Al more than the blender on the Bongo. I've not experienced the benefits of the passive settings, yet, as others have. The mahogany tone block in the 20th SR5 sounds terrific when solo'd at home.

So... what you like is:
- push button electronics (Big Al: check)
- mahagony in the body (Big Al: check)

Something else I would consider if you're looking for diversity: You currently have the multi pickup single coils covered with the 25th HSS and the SR5 20th HS (and the incoming Big Al 4 SSS). I would opt to have at least one bass with a neck H.

That low D sounds firm and professional on my 20th SR5.

Indeed it does. Ths SR5 20th has a great response on the B string. I've played some 35" scale fivers for a couple of years that didn't do better.

If I could arrange a swap of the roasted Big Al from 4 to 5, I'd probably go that way and make it my go-to bass.

Maybe that would be the best option as a first step.

 

[cellkirk74]

I definitely like the pushbutton pickup selector switches on the 4-string 25th and Big Al more than the blender on the Bongo. I've not experienced the benefits of the passive settings, yet, as others have. The mahogany tone block in the 20th SR5 sounds terrific when solo'd at home. The fact that Tony Levin plays one helps, too. And I'm smitten with the look of the BFR all-roasted neck. Thus, the vote.

After reading this I believe you do want the Big Al 5, so you should go and get it. I love mine, both the 4 SSS and the 5H. Both sound great.

Again, if you want some tones you will not get from your current basses, a Stingray 5 HH will give you at least 2 that will not be found elsewhere.

Then there is the Bongo that does simply sound soooo good and fells so naturally right from the start. Plus I am a sucker for the headstock of the roasted neck Bongo. That's why I voted for it.


Dang, you should get those three and be done....

 

[projectapollo]

Dang, you should get those three and be done....

"Dang" translates in German? LOL.

 

[projectapollo]

Looks like the Roasted Bongo 5HH is the clear winner......found one at The Perfect Bass......