This is because the strings are closer to one another on a 6-string than on a 4-string. Related reading: Why does the common bass have 4-strings, as opposed to 6?Ĭompared to the 4-string, you will need to be more precise with how you place your fingers on a 6-string. The extra strings are tools that you can utilize when appropriate, rather than something you have to make use of at all times. In reality, you could just play a 6-string like a 4-string and do nothing wrong. Due to the thicker neck and narrower space between strings, some find it more difficult to keep strings muted which in turn makes playing more difficult.Ī common misconception about the 6-string is that it is a complicated instrument. The 2 extra strings give you more possibilities, rather than make playing more difficult. Playing the 6-string bass is similar to playing the 4-string bass. Scott of Scott`s bass lessons sits down with Oteil Burbridge, an amazing 6-string player to talk about his playstyle on the 6-string: If you want to cover any of these artists or play a similar type of music, a 6-string is thus a natural choice.įor a more visual explanation of how the 6-string can be used, watch the video below. The 6-string has also been utilized in Rock n` Roll by Phil Lesh of The Grateful Dead and in Jazz by Anthony Jackson.īy having a high C string in addition to the low B, 6-string basses also allow for a heavier, more melodic, and flexible playstyle.
#Strings for a 6 stringed bass how to
Listen to John Myung of Dream Theater for a great example of how to use the 6-string to its full capacity in this type of genre. This is why 6-strings are common in genres like progressive metal where bassists often play heavy tuned-down riffs as well as melodies. By having a high C string in addition to the low B, 6-string basses also allow for a heavier, more melodic, and flexible playstyle.
The point of a 6-string bass is to have the deep range of a 5-string bass while simultaneously having a higher range. Thus, if you can afford one and you feel that you will make more use of it than a 4-string you should definitely get one. These prices will quickly shoot up if you are looking for a premium bass. Smaller stores tend to have a limited selection of 6-string basses, though.Īs for the cost, you can get an entry-level 6-string for about $400-$500. Music stores are happy to let you try out their instruments for free. Thus, you should try out several 6-string basses to find out whether it feels comfortable to play one or not before considering purchasing one. I was so used to playing a 4-string, that the first time I tried a 6-string it thus felt overwhelming and took some time to get used to.įeeling comfortable with your instrument is essential and often overlooked. This in turn means that the neck is thicker and that the strings are closer to one another on a 6-string. However, it`s possible to tune a 6-string bass like a guitar, even if it isn`t marketed as a Bass VI. Basses that are intended to be tuned this way are commonly labeled as Bass VI`s. Some 6-string basses are tuned EADGBE, just like a guitar. This means that you have one lower string, and one higher string than a 4-string bass. While a 4-string bass is tuned EADG, a 6-string is typically tuned BEADGC. The thicker neck and narrower space between strings will feel a lot different than a 4-string and the usefulness of the 2 extra is individual to each bassist.
You should only get a 6 string bass if you have tried one out first. Thus, I’m going to tell you all you need to know in order to determine whether the 6-string is worth it for you or not. Are you looking to utilize chords in your playing? Do you want a deeper sound than what the open E-string offers on the 4-string? Are you looking to play solo, or in a band setting?įor some, the 6-string will be worth it, for others, it won’t. Whether you should purchase a 6-string thus depends largely on what you want to accomplish as a bassist. A 6-string gives you a lot of options in how you voice chords and is thus worth it if you find yourself limited by the 4-string. I have to admit that they let you do a lot that 4-strings are incapable of, but is a 6-string bass worth it?Ħ-string basses are worth it if you want the lower range of a 5-string as well as the added melodic flexibility that the high C string offers. Still, I have found 6-strings incredibly fun to play. I started off on a cheap 4-string and have mainly stuck to 4-strings for the 14 years I have been playing bass. Like most bassists, I have always gravitated towards the 4-string.
0 kommentar(er)
