What are 5 string bass guitars tuned to?

Traditionally, a 5 string is tuned B,E,A,D,G from lowest to highest strings.

Is it harder to play a 5 string bass?

No. A 5 string bass' slightly wider neck compared to a 4 string can take a small amount of adjustment, but you'll be making your way around effortlessly in no time.

Are 5 string basses worth it?

Yes. The expanded range of the 5 string gives you access to musical ideas you just couldn't reach otherwise. The range of 5 string basses available nowadays varies right across the price spectrum, so there's a 5 string bass out there for you if you want to take the plunge.

What are 5 string basses good for?

The extra low notes on a 5 string bass give you that extra part of the mix to really fill out, anchoring your riffs, grooves and chords to the floor. This comes in useful in musical styles that already fill up a lot of the spectrum like heavy metal, or where big low end is essential, like hip hop and R&B. In the world of theatre music, the 5 string bass is practically ubiquitous.

What are the most popular 5 string bass guitar models?

The most popular 5 string bass guitar models are undoubtedly from Ibanez. This may be because lots of hard rock and metal players use them and need the slim neck and low notes that an Ibanez 5 string provides. The SR-505 bass is an extremely popular model. Aside from that, the Squier Jazz 5 string is very popular, as are the various iterations of Music Man StingRay 5 string bass.

Can a beginner start on a 5 string bass?

Yes, absolutely! Like so many more recent developments in the world of guitar, there are some fantastic quality 5 string basses at beginner friendly prices. Playing wise, there's no reason whatsoever you can't make your first forays into playing on a 5 string, all principles of finger placement, note positions etc. are exactly the same.