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Help Picking Out A 6-String Bass

5 string guy
Posts: 723
10 years ago
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Ok, so I've been playing for about 4 or so years and have been using 5 strings for a majority of that time. I love 5 strings because they add on to what I can do as a bassist. I've been doing some thinking and I'm working on expanding to 6 string basses. I was wanting to get a poll on the brands I have picked to purchaes. The choices are Ibanez Gio 6 strings, ESP 6 strings, or the Ernie Ball Musicman Bongo 6 string. Any recommendations would be fantastic.
IamMark
Posts: 1103
I have a 4 and a 6-string. I prefer the 4-string. I bought my 6-string from a guy who had it custom made from The Guitar Factory in Orlando, FL.

Originally, I think it was supposed to be a 5-string, but then made into a 6-string. The strings are very tight, which is good if you have small fingers. So I think that should be something to keep in mind. But since you've been playing on a 5-string, I don't think adding another would be problematic for you. But it is for me going from 4 to 6.

My 6 is a monster too. It weighs about as much as a 4-year old. Not very good for playing standing up for long sessions.



I've not tried any of the ones you mentioned. I have heard the Ibanez 6-strings are nice because the necks are thin and fast. My 6 neck is like playing a 2x4.
I play a Ibanez SR506, LOVE IT. Its the only bolt-on neck bass I play and I cannot say anything bad about it. I have had it for years, great price for an excellent bass.
How much is this Ibanez of which you speak Spotty?
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I have a 4 and a 6-string. I prefer the 4-string. I bought my 6-string from a guy who had it custom made from The Guitar Factory in Orlando, FL.Originally, I think it was supposed to be a 5-string, but then made into a 6-string. The strings are very tight, which is good if you have small fingers. So I think that should be something to keep in mind. But since you've been playing on a 5-string, I don't think adding another would be problematic for you. But it is for me going from 4 to 6.My 6 is a monster too. It weighs about as much as a 4-year old. Not very good for playing standing up for long sessions.I've not tried any of the ones you mentioned. I have heard the Ibanez 6-strings are nice because the necks are thin and fast. My 6 neck is like playing a 2x4.
Dude, John Myung from Dream Theater went from 4 straight to 6 and he still kicks ass. Look him up. Your won't regret it. Also, My Ibanez 5 string is insanely light. A buddy of mine has an Ovation 6 string acoustic and My Ibanez is lighter than his acoustic. It may seem impossible, but it really is true.
Marko1960
Posts: 3143
I just don't get six string basses and now there are seven stringers, the mind boggles
IamMark
Posts: 1103
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I just don't get six string basses and now there are seven stringers, the mind boggles
I rarely play mine. I can barely play 4 strings, so the extra two are wasted with my talents (or lack of).

But then I'm sure there are drummers who look at Neil Peart's drum kit and say, “I don't get it. All you need is a kick, snare, high-hat, and a few symbols.” But then when Neil decides that 50 toms and half a dozen xylophones help create some unique stuff… No one seems to argue with that logic. More power to those who can use all the bells and whistles and not use them to show they have a lot of bells and whistles.
Bassguy, I got mine at MusicGoRound for a little over $300. My exact bass can be found if searching Ibanez SR506; mine is the classc maroon natural finish. New they are from $500/$700. Am sure seaching will get you a range of prices. If thinking about it and you have a GC or MF in the area; go pull one off the wall. Its a mid-grade bass, but man it sure plays and feels high caliber. I mean Ibanez; pretty good gear from my exp. I would put it up against any 6-banger for studio, gigs or just at home. I think it would be a good one on your list to look into.
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I just don't get six string basses and now there are seven stringers, the mind boggles
They make 8 and 12 stringers too Marko.
I just want to challenge myself to learn a different monster.
I just want to challenge myself to learn a different monster.

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