With standard bass guitars, metal “frets” are used to mark off the exact spots where the strings must be “fretted”… The main side effect of these basses is…since the strings are shorter, they are also floppier and have a somewhat darker sound.Įxtra long scale basses are mainly used on 5 or 6 string basses, as the added length is necessary for the lower B string.Īnother advanced option that some bass players may transition to (after many years of experience)… Short scale basses are ideal for young or small players, as their size and weight is easier to handle. These days, long scale is considered standard, and is the best default option unless you have a specific reason to choose otherwise. With bass guitars, the 3 common scale length categories are: Making the instrument more difficult to handle overall. The reason that most players choose NOT to use these extra string(s) is that they’re unnecessary for almost all playing styles and only serve to add extra width to the neck… 6 string basses – have the same B string as well, in addition to an extra high C string, which allows for more range with soloing and progressive styles of play.5 string basses – have an extra B string on the low end, which allows for a deeper bass range with heavier styles of music.There’s really no question as to which you should be playing.Ĥ strings is standard for the instrument, and what 95% of bass players use over the course of their entire careers.Īnd you’re probably curious as to WHY someone might transition to a 5 or 6 string bass…here are some answers: Unless you’ve been playing for years and have a specific reason to want to switch from 4 strings to something else… While it may be true that electric bass guitars are available in either 4, 5, or 6 strings… So here’s a list of topics on the agenda…Īnd for advanced players considering custom upgrades we have:
On behalf of all tone-deaf drummers and beat-deaf singers out there…Īnd to show my thanks, what I have for you today is an in-depth guide on all the nitty-gritty details of the instrument, to help you make an intelligent and informed decision when choosing your first (or next) bass guitar. You’re doing the real work of holding it all together…Īnd if you’re just getting started with the bass guitar (or perhaps you’ve been playing for years)…Īnd this is the role you have chosen for yourself… To most of the world, it’s not nearly as glamorous as singing, or guitar…or even drumsfor that matter.īut to you…the bass player, there’s a quiet dignity in knowing that while all the other guys are busy showing off… It takes a unique type of person to play bass, doesn’t it?