01
String count and spacing
Four strings keep the neck familiar; five and six strings extend range while changing width and right-hand spacing.
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5-string basses
Shop 5-string basses with a clearer view of the features, tradeoffs, and price levels that matter. The important buying decisions come first, followed by a focused selection from our current bass inventory.
✦ Great value picks
String count and spacing: Four strings keep the neck familiar; five and six strings extend range while changing width and right-hand spacing.
Choosing 5-string basses
Focus on the construction, specifications, and system requirements that have the greatest effect on this particular product.
02
Scale length
Long scale adds tension and definition, while short scale reduces reach and can produce a rounder fundamental.
03
Active or passive electronics
Active EQ shapes frequencies onboard; passive circuits offer a direct signal with simpler controls and no battery.
✦ Most popular
Scale length: Long scale adds tension and definition, while short scale reduces reach and can produce a rounder fundamental.
✦ Premium picks
Active or passive electronics: Active EQ shapes frequencies onboard; passive circuits offer a direct signal with simpler controls and no battery.
Leading brands for 5-string basses
Compare established makers represented in this collection. Brand availability reflects the current catalog.
