5 string P-bass questions.

[Vics]

Anybody own one of these models? I'm thinking about checking one of these models out and would like to hear from those in the know.

Although I now just play at home I use to be a full time bass player many years ago. I've been learning guitar since '96 and find I'd like to re-connect with my bass playing roots. I've still got my '73 Jazz Bass which I've been playing lately, but I've never owned a P-bass and have been thinking about expanding my horizons on a 5 string bass.

Any info would be greatley appreciated.

[cre2403]

When I decided to get a Fender bass, I bought a Jazz Bass "Special" back in 1987 (my God, its 20 years old now!).

This bass has the Jazz neck, but has both Precision and Jazz bass pickups. I can get pretty much the entire range of Precision tones out of it and most of the Jazz tones.

Not sure if Fender still makes a model like this, but they probably do. Then again, mine is a 4 string so Fender may not offer it in a 5 string. If not, one of the clone makers probably makes one. I've seen the "P-J" configuration on a number of basses over the years.

Although I like the Fender, my 5 string is a Carvin. I play that bass more than any other - it has a great range of tones and active electronics. I like it so much, I just ordered another one. Professional quality instruments at about 1/3 what you would pay in a music store..........

[Vics]

A Carvin 5 string, eh? Thanks for the heads up. What specific model do you have? Any way you could compare the neck on your Carvin to something I might find in a music store, just to get somewhat of an idea of how it plays?

Thanks again.

[Telebass]

Try one, you'll like it! Had a few through my hands in the store I used to work in, and they were really nice.

[steve25]

I have big hands and find the neck of a jazz bass too tight up in the first postion, so back in 78 when I was shopping for a Fender bass I got a P bass, so be sure whatever 5 string bass you choose is good for your hand size.
Also some tunes like Stanly clark stuff is impossible to play on a five string as their is no way when playing a couple of his songs to stop that low B string from riinng! and yes, I have though about stuffing some foam under it!
I also have a Carvin LB75 with the big near flat asymetrical neck and my hands love it.