3 Reasons why 6 STRING BASSES SUCK (and how to fix it)

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  • Опубліковано 13 тра 2024
  • I'm not sure if you've had any experience of 6 string basses - but there are various reason why they totally suck...
    And before you play one, or even if you are already playing one, you need to know what they are.
    In this lesson I'm going to show you exactly why... and I'm going to show you how to fix it!
    As always, see you in the shed...
    Scott :)
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 2,3 тис.

  • @johnpatitucci7919
    @johnpatitucci7919 6 років тому +1916

    Hi, I'm John Patitucci, and I approve this bass.

    • @kuyaferds8715
      @kuyaferds8715 4 роки тому +40

      John Patitucci 😂😂

    • @jeffreystroman2811
      @jeffreystroman2811 4 роки тому +48

      John Patitucci outside of a dog a book is man's best friend
      Inside of a dog it's too dark to read

    • @Frankthegb
      @Frankthegb 4 роки тому +28

      John Patitucci, the best bassist known to man

    • @aaronbolte6391
      @aaronbolte6391 4 роки тому +5

      With Erik Truffaz... What was the name of the band?

    • @vektrr
      @vektrr 4 роки тому +17

      @@aaronbolte6391 Dream Theater, and the bassist is John Myung

  • @richardwojcik3107
    @richardwojcik3107 5 років тому +1138

    4:47 - Reason #1
    7:17 - Reason #2
    9:09 - Reason #3

  • @JamB-zo1ln
    @JamB-zo1ln 5 років тому +2392

    6 string bass guitars are just electric guitars that hit puberty.

  • @stinky789
    @stinky789 4 роки тому +378

    Yamaha: Here's a six string! We look forward to your video :)
    Scott: 3 reasons why six strings SUCK!
    Yamaha: :0

  • @jerrylev59
    @jerrylev59 5 років тому +959

    If you get on stage with a 6, expectations are higher. Be prepared to deliver.

    • @ronfleming5488
      @ronfleming5488 4 роки тому +86

      This is absolutely true. ESPECIALLY in the church / gospel world.

    • @johnnyfreeman1018
      @johnnyfreeman1018 4 роки тому +64

      I've got a 7 string and this comment is very true.....expectations are MUCH higher....no matter the difficulty of the music....

    • @situacionando
      @situacionando 4 роки тому +8

      Hahaha facts!

    • @EliezerGenX1975
      @EliezerGenX1975 4 роки тому +30

      I don't think so. Thats a stigma idiot musicians put on the 6. The six string wasn't created just for soloing.

    • @owenclough7156
      @owenclough7156 4 роки тому +48

      @@EliezerGenX1975 I think he means the audience expects more because it's more then a 4 string, which is dumb.

  • @justmarc2015
    @justmarc2015 6 років тому +343

    Hey nerds, the real reason you get a 6 string is to jam at home with phat chords and B string thunder. Yeah, you don't need the extra strings for most music, but that doesn't mean they're not fun.

    • @myronmosley2167
      @myronmosley2167 4 роки тому +28

      Or you play in a band that uses 8 string guitars

    • @jery3385
      @jery3385 3 роки тому +2

      @@myronmosley2167 you can easily play along with a 5string.

    • @zyphedits6298
      @zyphedits6298 3 роки тому +3

      try playing pretty much any TECH death with a 4 string, its not even really possible to do much tech stuff yknow?

    • @VmShpman82
      @VmShpman82 3 роки тому +2

      hahahahah. I would like a 5 string though. I'm bummed that I bought a 6 string. Thanks for saying what you did. LOL

    • @shawnhuff3920
      @shawnhuff3920 3 роки тому

      Yes but if you plug in to a thrash metal pedal and have heavy metal distortion you can shred on the G and C strings and play heavy metal muting chugggg

  • @williammitchell6921
    @williammitchell6921 6 років тому +141

    For me, one of the biggest advantages of a 6 string is economy of motion. I can play more vertically, which is actually easier for me that jumping around on a 4 string, or even a 5.

    • @wippi7071
      @wippi7071 2 роки тому +7

      I have a 4 string and it has been a pain in the bass to play the high notes on the bass, a 6 string will def make it easier

    • @marklowe7431
      @marklowe7431 Рік тому

      Great point

    • @LeFingal
      @LeFingal 3 місяці тому

      it's setup like a dream bass? Like you can just vertical play the pattern without having to move up frets? I started playing bass some months ago, and i've tried the floating thumb on a four string and that works too :)

  • @magicstix0r
    @magicstix0r 4 роки тому +452

    "6 string basses suck!"
    *Les Claypool wants to know your location*

    • @zal8424
      @zal8424 4 роки тому +92

      Primus suck

    • @hugoalbornoz4208
      @hugoalbornoz4208 4 роки тому +13

      @@zal8424 fuck you

    • @chrisholton7353
      @chrisholton7353 4 роки тому +92

      @@hugoalbornoz4208 how do you know enough about Primus to like them but not know the saying that they suck?

    • @hugoalbornoz4208
      @hugoalbornoz4208 4 роки тому +40

      @@chrisholton7353 well, i learned something new. Thank you and sorry

    • @amshuchitrakar4424
      @amshuchitrakar4424 4 роки тому +11

      thundercat; basically defies every way of the bass

  • @Gitfiddle
    @Gitfiddle 6 років тому +144

    Played bass in high school jazz band while I was learning guitar. Then put the bass down for 25 years! Just picked it up again partly because of Scott's bass lessons. Thank you Scott.

    • @ifbbpro05
      @ifbbpro05 4 роки тому +4

      Gitfiddle 7766 TRAITOR !!!
      u abandoned bass for guitar

  • @MertAris
    @MertAris 6 років тому +112

    the band's name is erik truffaz quartet and the name of the bassist is marcelo guilliani. one of my favourite bands and bassists. also the tune is called istanbul tango.

  • @craigdamage
    @craigdamage 4 роки тому +105

    Strings for a 4 string are expensive. Strings for a 5 string bass are MORE expensive. Strings for a 6 string bass are TOO expensive.

    • @MeshuggahDave.
      @MeshuggahDave. 3 роки тому +3

      That’s not actually completely true. You might want to check out d’addario six string packs for 37$ at my local guitar center...
      My old DRs for five string were 50-55$. Back then...

    • @craigdamage
      @craigdamage 3 роки тому +1

      @@MeshuggahDave. that's still more expensive than a 4 string pack.

    • @MeshuggahDave.
      @MeshuggahDave. 3 роки тому

      @@craigdamage lol yeah, if you play ernie ball...

    • @jamesnordli3526
      @jamesnordli3526 3 роки тому +16

      As if we are changing bass strings

    • @drumF_4200
      @drumF_4200 3 роки тому

      price/quality ratio-wise, the Warwick Red Label ones are pretty good

  • @buckgillispie605
    @buckgillispie605 5 років тому +46

    I feel it's easier to contend with the extra range if you look at it like a 4 string with an extra string on top and bottom. You can focus more on incorporating those extra notes without being overwhelmed. It's easy to overthink it

    • @erikboncoref.7020
      @erikboncoref.7020 Рік тому +2

      That's basically how it works: a 4-string with more bass and more treble; I usually think my technique with the 6-string as being more vertical than horizontal

  • @firewolf2763
    @firewolf2763 6 років тому +358

    As a guitar player, I have a strong urge to strum it.

    • @mitchwild8238
      @mitchwild8238 5 років тому +32

      Haha. It sounds horrid when you do. Even in relative tuning.

    • @DarthCiliatus
      @DarthCiliatus 4 роки тому +7

      @@mitchwild8238 Too muddy sounding?

    • @mitchwild8238
      @mitchwild8238 4 роки тому +34

      @@DarthCiliatus Exactly that. Just a rumble of thunder. I have a six and I have tried it. Not recommended.

    • @franktalarico689
      @franktalarico689 4 роки тому +16

      It sounds great don't listen. Gerald Veasley specializes in it with his ultra narrow string spacing 6 string bass. Playing through a guitar head can help.

    • @CobaltLancer
      @CobaltLancer 4 роки тому +4

      Firewolf
      Not recommended lol it sounds like crap, even if you tune it like a guitar 😂
      Even my 4 string sounds like crap when strummed and 6 strings will sound even worse 🤣🤣🤣

  • @Otm_Shank
    @Otm_Shank 6 років тому +48

    The dog in the background is so interested until he opens the case, then he's like "Oh not food, nevermind" LOL

  • @jessem5564
    @jessem5564 5 років тому +76

    Oh no, quick! Somebody tell Thundercat!

  • @144bob
    @144bob 4 роки тому +32

    There's nothing I can play on a four or five string bass that I can't also play on a six string. The opposite can't be said.

  • @aidandix7296
    @aidandix7296 6 років тому +1388

    It's a guitar... But it's T H I C C

  • @OlettaLiano
    @OlettaLiano 6 років тому +39

    I've played a six string for over 7 years and I think they're awesome. I tune mine low E to high F which lets me get some guitar-like notes along with the cool bass notes.

    • @robertkaye5434
      @robertkaye5434 2 роки тому +3

      Nice. I have a Hip-Shot on my B-string and lower it to A.

    • @OlettaLiano
      @OlettaLiano 2 роки тому +2

      @@robertkaye5434 It's also fun to play with different tunings to mix things up from time to time.

    • @dorfusjiorle2002
      @dorfusjiorle2002 9 місяців тому +2

      What gauge strings do you use for that tuning?I want to set up one of my 6ers like that👍

    • @OlettaLiano
      @OlettaLiano 9 місяців тому +1

      @@dorfusjiorle2002 Hi, what I usually do is buy a set of Dean Markley SR2000 Medium 2698C 7-String Bass and toss out the low bass string. .022 .027 .047 .067 .087 .107 Hope this was helpful.

  • @CallSignJammer
    @CallSignJammer 6 років тому +32

    I’ve been on a 6 string bass for a few months now. There is no going back. I can add 1 more reason why it sucks though, if you buy strings often, most run of the mill sets cost $40, anything out of the ordinary puts you upwards of $60.

    • @chrisc.4517
      @chrisc.4517 4 роки тому +1

      Very true. What do you use? Since I was 13(30-now) I've played rotosound when I played 4 string and eventually switched to 5 string. Now I use DR black beauties. If I need strings desperately before a gig, I may run with Ernie Balls if I'm on a budget.

    • @Logo0593
      @Logo0593 4 роки тому

      I play a six string bass and it can do chords that no other basses can do. No other bass can compare to sound and quality.

    • @leoneddy1492
      @leoneddy1492 4 роки тому

      It might throw you on single note runs and patterns for a while as the Six string Bass standard tuning is Low to high is B,E,A,D,G,C ; as i only pick a six string guitar up now and again tuned E,A,D,G,B,E. it's the move from the G to B string that throws me,

    • @rebeltuba9422
      @rebeltuba9422 4 роки тому

      @@chrisc.4517 I played DR Low-beams 30-40-60-80-100-120. Had to buy a 5 string set and a single 30.

    • @Logo0593
      @Logo0593 4 роки тому

      @herb stomp Yes, it's the same pattern

  • @toportime
    @toportime 4 роки тому +27

    After watching your "Reasons not to play 5 str... 6 string..." and whatnot my takeaway is "If you are going to play X, then practice and play X. You do not need to progress from A to B to X, just pick what you want and practice away!'

    • @ysteinberg5084
      @ysteinberg5084 3 роки тому +3

      My takeaway is that more strings gives less reasons.

  • @seanlikestoeat
    @seanlikestoeat 6 років тому +207

    I really think "evoke the widdle" should be the name of a really wanky jazz fusion trio

  • @theguitarclubonline
    @theguitarclubonline 6 років тому +38

    I read a newspaper article about you the other week! Congrats on the huge success! : )

  • @jordanbrownlie4512
    @jordanbrownlie4512 6 років тому +167

    I only play double bass, what am I doing here??

  • @idabee7605
    @idabee7605 5 років тому +43

    As a contrabassist I would LOVE to get my hands on a 6 stringed classical! Shifting on a contra is a whole different beast, and without frets it’s a ton to process when you have to play in the middle of the neck on the G string or tune down E for a single low note at the end.

    • @anthonypittman9791
      @anthonypittman9791 4 роки тому +2

      i totally understand when your playing classical pieces for koussevitsky or Bach anyone really from that era its insane with some of the reaches you have to make

    • @robertkaye5434
      @robertkaye5434 2 роки тому

      Ever heard of Renaud Garcia-Fons? He plays a 5-string contrabasse (high C-string). ua-cam.com/video/eim_QlKcprk/v-deo.html

  • @chrisggoodwin777
    @chrisggoodwin777 6 років тому +42

    I didn't know Paul Reed Smith also made t-shirts 😜

  • @rensjosephus3152
    @rensjosephus3152 6 років тому +379

    Did you just dip your Oreo in coffee

    • @mogs9999
      @mogs9999 5 років тому +23

      he's English. so its quite clearly tea

    • @virgil6206
      @virgil6206 5 років тому +29

      @@mogs9999 he literally says "a cheeky coffee" dipshit

    • @ReasonableRam
      @ReasonableRam 5 років тому +87

      So much escalation of emotion from comment to comment lol. It's just a snack guys.

    • @Kuso319
      @Kuso319 5 років тому +10

      @@mogs9999 thats some stereotypical shit right there dude just because he's english doesn't mean they always drink tea and not coffee. in fact, i know many brits who hate both

    • @SprunkCovers
      @SprunkCovers 5 років тому +2

      North of England does stuff diferently lol

  • @seankm6nfo990
    @seankm6nfo990 Рік тому +5

    My wife got me a 6 string for Christmas. I love it. Thanks for the inspiration and the words of wisdom.

    • @devinebass
      @devinebass  Рік тому +1

      Yes dude! Enjoy!! Check this video out Ian did recently, playing on 2 different 6-string Ken Smith basses!
      ua-cam.com/video/jNiDXH2olr0/v-deo.html

    • @PhullyNo1
      @PhullyNo1 Рік тому +1

      @@devinebass you trying to give this poor man GAS right after getting a 6-string?

  • @ianmarkd.gestuveo4172
    @ianmarkd.gestuveo4172 6 років тому +455

    Tell that to John Myung...

    • @RedLightningCreation
      @RedLightningCreation 6 років тому +53

      bout time i found a Myung comment

    • @mattroads6846
      @mattroads6846 6 років тому +26

      and John Patitucci!

    • @chemac4950
      @chemac4950 6 років тому +18

      Or thundercat

    • @Moss-qe9uf
      @Moss-qe9uf 5 років тому +24

      And Les Claypool

    • @memebigboy1946
      @memebigboy1946 5 років тому +12

      @Mark Wright I feel like you're just trying to start shit for no reason lmao. Too each their own opinion tho!

  • @jonathansefcik473
    @jonathansefcik473 6 років тому +63

    I'm like Goldilocks when it comes to bass. 6 is too much, 4 isn't enough, 5 is just right.

    • @zacharymorin5696
      @zacharymorin5696 6 років тому +2

      Jonathan Sefcik My thoughts exactly

    • @natehaiden
      @natehaiden 5 років тому +5

      High c or low b?

    • @steverush5184
      @steverush5184 5 років тому +2

      @@natehaiden Yes; playa's choice.

    • @63stratoman
      @63stratoman 5 років тому

      Same here

    • @orangecounty60
      @orangecounty60 5 років тому

      Same here, I love my 5 string bass, been playing for 20 years

  • @shermith4751
    @shermith4751 6 років тому +401

    5 string is my favorite, as dumb as it sounds 4 seems lacking but 6 is just overt and too much for me

    • @bobbenbrown123
      @bobbenbrown123 6 років тому +11

      Shermith totally agree with u. I have a 5 string bass (Stadium). Very sufficient for a 7 string and 8 string guitar when recording tracks in the studio.

    • @lol1234536978
      @lol1234536978 6 років тому +18

      I am predominately a 5 string player, but getting used to a 6 is a very amazing skill to master

    • @bayce3
      @bayce3 6 років тому +9

      That's great for you. ....it's not for everybody.....but it's worked exceptionally well for me for over 20 years and I get plenty of work. Use what works for you and you can't go wrong.

    • @memebigboy1946
      @memebigboy1946 6 років тому +14

      My main bass is a 6 string but I agree with your statement. I just think " Why get a 5 when you can get a 6 that does the same thing and more?"

    • @kronos6948
      @kronos6948 6 років тому +15

      Same. Years ago I went from 4 to a 6, and realized that I rarely if ever used anything on the C string. My playing style and the style of music I was playing in didn't use that high of a register in bass. And I'm not one for writing leads or anything like that. That's when I realized a 5 banger was perfect for me.

  • @floydandrews3054
    @floydandrews3054 3 роки тому +8

    "The case smells good." Truly a bass fanatic!

  • @60sfoley
    @60sfoley 4 роки тому

    Scot, Thanks for another great video, I recently started playing a 5 string and found your video on that very helpful.

  • @EpictheEpicest
    @EpictheEpicest 6 років тому +549

    Lol, If you don't want it I'll take it. I play almost exclusively 6-string.

  • @neonguts5719
    @neonguts5719 6 років тому +287

    a fretless 6 string bass is the best kind of 6 string bass.

    • @leftclickben
      @leftclickben 6 років тому +5

      salah dabbech See also: Steve Bailey

    • @beck9848
      @beck9848 6 років тому +33

      Claypool

    • @boricesellers4669
      @boricesellers4669 6 років тому +36

      Dominic "Forest" Lapointe!

    • @leftclickben
      @leftclickben 6 років тому +14

      Yep, Beyond Creation are awesome

    • @leftclickben
      @leftclickben 6 років тому +4

      Stephen - a nobody - claims one of the best fretless players in the world is not in tune. *slow clap*

  • @tdub3700
    @tdub3700 5 років тому

    Great info....been playing a 4 string off and on but would like to get back on the trail of learning again.
    Thanks!

  • @carlwilson4375
    @carlwilson4375 5 років тому +38

    Or you can put a hair scrunchie at the nut of the bass to mute the strings.

    • @dickr9345
      @dickr9345 4 роки тому +1

      I did this when I was learning how to play bass even on a 4 string. Mom and sister used to wonder why I stole their scrunchies lol.

    • @seangriffey8669
      @seangriffey8669 4 роки тому +3

      A more expensive but more elegant solution is a fret wrap. I have one on all of my guitars and my bass

    • @MichaelStoneham
      @MichaelStoneham 4 роки тому +1

      Fretwraps give even tension on the strings. I have been meaning to get one myself. I only have a 5 string.

    • @AB-80X
      @AB-80X 3 роки тому +3

      Or you can learn how to play.

  • @manifatzigula
    @manifatzigula 6 років тому +17

    Absolutely agree with all of the points you talked about. I play a six-string tuned down and the muting was an absolute pain to get used to. Love it to bits because it really opens up the world of chords to the bass player. Also tapping is heela fun :) keep up the good content

    • @Deathrape2001
      @Deathrape2001 6 років тому +1

      HOW THE FUK is muting ever hard?? The neck hand mutes the high note strings when not used, & the playing hand mutes the low note strings that are not used. Everything U want muted gets snuffed. WTF? How dumb R bass players? I guess it's true what 'spectresoundstudios' says HAHA & yes, I play bass... AND guitar =)

  • @rockeiroaxemeister8422
    @rockeiroaxemeister8422 6 років тому +4

    I love the 6 string too. 16 years on my Cort Curbow. Had to play a 4 string last week for another gig and felt so restricted like between a rock and hard place. :)

  • @wftorres47
    @wftorres47 3 роки тому +1

    Simply Awesome!!!!..Great Information on the 6-String Hand Bass!...Great Job Scott!!!

  • @lineboss58
    @lineboss58 5 років тому +1

    Have had a TRBII6 for a few years now my mute style is using both hands to cut down string noise. First year it was a four string with two extra strings, but over time it opened up and i found it great for reaching notes across rather than up the neck.

  • @callmejs
    @callmejs 6 років тому +98

    Erik Truffaz Quartet where Marcello Giuliani is the bassist... How many points to get that bass? ;-)

    • @dumbohill42
      @dumbohill42 6 років тому +4

      Can you please guide me to a place where I can listen to/watch that specific concert?

    • @xMTLKx
      @xMTLKx 6 років тому +1

      thanks !!! awesome stuff

    • @callmejs
      @callmejs 6 років тому

      De rien!

    • @PilferMusic
      @PilferMusic 6 років тому

      Saw them Live years back it was INCREDIBLE!

  • @GregsBassWorld
    @GregsBassWorld 6 років тому +10

    dipping oreos in coffee?? now THAT is a technique I gotta try!

  • @PierreSottas
    @PierreSottas 4 роки тому +9

    Erik Truffaz, bass player : Marcello Giuliani... Too easy, friend of mine!

  • @vanderpoolfarmsl.l.c.9983
    @vanderpoolfarmsl.l.c.9983 3 роки тому +3

    I wish you would do a video focusing on the B string and all (if any) pointers related.
    Do you need additional height for that string?
    Are B strings readily available in the proper gauge?
    Does a B string take longer to stretch.
    What style of strings on a 6 string do you prefer?
    Thank you!

  • @Knight_Astolfo
    @Knight_Astolfo 6 років тому +154

    I love my Warwick 6 string.... makes me quiver sometimes.....

    • @thatdude4257
      @thatdude4257 6 років тому

      Seraephus boo

    • @xnoch6167
      @xnoch6167 6 років тому

      warwicks high end guitars even 1203901293 strings are perfect

    • @william030972
      @william030972 6 років тому +4

      but does it technical death metal?

    • @akalichamp7030
      @akalichamp7030 6 років тому +3

      MomoTheBellyDancer my dog does technical death metal when I ram my cock into its forehead

    • @akalichamp7030
      @akalichamp7030 6 років тому

      MomoTheBellyDancer mine is a special model, there are only 7 of them in world, they were quickly put out of production after animal abuse rates spiked or something

  • @vince8081
    @vince8081 6 років тому +9

    the bass player is marcello giulliani from Erik Truffaz quartet.

  • @pierre-andrefave9512
    @pierre-andrefave9512 5 років тому +4

    The bassist is Marcello Guiliani and he plays with Erik Truffaz (the guy with the trumpet).

  • @andrew522009
    @andrew522009 4 роки тому

    I have exactly the same signature bass but in grey with gold hardware and love it. Had it since 1998. Yours look amazing sir very nice.

  • @Grumdot
    @Grumdot 6 років тому +3

    After watching the video, I grabbed my 6. I realized that I was using a floating thumb technique and didn't even realize it. But the tip about using the pinky is great. Thanks

  • @antoniogonzalez4204
    @antoniogonzalez4204 6 років тому +57

    Play what you love....play it well....4,5,6,7 fretted or fretless...if it sounds good it is!! I only play a six but my heros are Anthony Jackson, Alain Caron, John Pattituci, Oteil Burbridge and Keith Horne. Can I play with the facility of Jeff Berlin, Jaco or Jeff Andrews? I'm working on it. LOL

    • @Synequanon
      @Synequanon 6 років тому +5

      Well said ! "4,5,6,7 fretted or fretless...if it sounds good it is!" After all, it's just a tool to create music, nothing else.

    • @nitrobw1
      @nitrobw1 6 років тому +1

      What's most important is the Bassist. The bass is just a way to make the music happen. No matter what you use, you have to be good with it.

    • @PierreMiniggio
      @PierreMiniggio 6 років тому

      I play a guitar with my E string replaced for a bass string

    • @markcheetah4960
      @markcheetah4960 6 років тому

      What gauge is the string? Is it tuned differently?

    • @luigismansion44
      @luigismansion44 6 років тому

      Antonio Gonzalez i have 2 4 Strings a 5 string and my dad’s fretless I use occasionally

  • @m0i0k0eAnthony
    @m0i0k0eAnthony 5 років тому +1

    You're spot on with every point... I played a GTBD-7 (Bill Dickens) exclusively for a few years - because of the tendency to 'widdle around', It made me develop bad habits and made me a worse player when playing with an ensemble. Decided to switch back to a 4-string but often turn to my 7-string when I practice. I will say that overall, practicing with a 7-string has made me a much faster and a more well-rounded 4-string player.

  • @nolanerck
    @nolanerck Рік тому +1

    I've never actually wanted a 6-string bass before. But this video piqued my curiosity about them...especially that Yamaha model you're playing. Thanks!

  • @cjsamtab7
    @cjsamtab7 3 роки тому +3

    Sixers are for thinkers and planners in bass playing. I do all 4, 5, and 6. Currently just acquired an amber TRBJP2 along with an Ibanez RS5000. My second language is the Alto Sax and keys as the third. So naturally, a sixer is my ideal bass on any genre. My foundation and genre is Fusion. Genesis in bass : 1974.

  • @Metalbass1979
    @Metalbass1979 5 років тому +5

    Back in 2006, I was brought in to replace the guy in a respected Prog-Metal band that I had been listening to for years. It required a 6 string to play the old parts, so I got one. It sounded amazing and I could do some cool stuff with the high C but it felt like I was playing a 2x6 board with strings.........

  • @Astral_Wave
    @Astral_Wave 2 роки тому +2

    One thing in particular that I like about them is the narrow string spacing. I'd be happy with a 4 if they made more with a narrow spacing. Any recommendations for 4 strings with a 6 string bridge spacing are welcome.
    Also, as a guitarist, each string can be tuned like a guitar (octave down) and not need to learn new chords or scales

  • @pdkett1
    @pdkett1 4 роки тому

    Thanks for posting. Just bought a used Carvin 6 string from Guitar Center. Got 45 days to decide if I want to keep it. I'm a lefty, so that's why I grabbed it.

  • @esposoman
    @esposoman 6 років тому +43

    Most of the time I play 5 string. I have a 6 strings at home to practice and to workout my finger strenght (It's 35" scale long). Another cool use is for selecting people I wanna play with. How? Easy : I tell them I play 6 strings basses. If the answer is somekind of "dah! bass must be 4 string" or "Why you don't play guitar?" I know that I'm dealing with people who doesn't think like me so I move on...

  • @kengibson7508
    @kengibson7508 4 роки тому +72

    I have an eighty-eight string bass - it's called a piano....

    • @joeysahouria5058
      @joeysahouria5058 4 роки тому +5

      Ken Gibson Ayy, me too! Mine is tuned to Drop A!

    • @ATthemusician
      @ATthemusician 3 роки тому

      Pianos are actually in the percussion family despite having strings

  • @teryeah
    @teryeah 5 років тому +1

    Great video about the things that makes a sixstring special. Reminds a little about the video with the five strings.

  • @legatenaarifin
    @legatenaarifin 6 років тому +1

    These days I play mainly 6 string bass (a Yamaha too! TRB1006J) and I've found I mainly use the high string for chord construction. Chords on the highest 3 strings just sound so nice. I'm not a very widdle-y player, so that was never a problem :'D

  • @johnwhyte-venables2167
    @johnwhyte-venables2167 6 років тому +4

    I had two sixers - both Hohner VI B Basses. Very compact, fantastic wood, great players and superb sound - all for around £250 $300 2nd hand. But it is very easy to think of them as 4+2 if you're a beginner.

    • @bayce3
      @bayce3 6 років тому

      John Whyte-Venables played the same bass for years. ....was blessed to play some great stuff with that instrument! I play a 1994 Curbow Petite 6 now that I've had since 01.....LOVE it!

    • @johnwhyte-venables2167
      @johnwhyte-venables2167 6 років тому +1

      Tick Timmie. I now moved to a single cut Ibanez Cerro 5. Not sure I wouldn't rather have my last B Bass back!

    • @bayce3
      @bayce3 6 років тому

      John Whyte-Venables okay cool! I also have 2 Tom Martinson 5's. One is a single cut fretted Phat 5 and the other is a Nessie fretless 5. Love both of those as well. ...great playing instruments. Tom is a wonderful builder out of Morristown Tennessee.

  • @mattharriss3835
    @mattharriss3835 4 роки тому +3

    Although I have several 4 string bass I've been playing a 6 string fretless for over 25 years (only one of those). You get a whole new horizon when you play. It's my swiss army knife for anything thrown at you.

  • @m.k.spaulding1327
    @m.k.spaulding1327 Рік тому

    Ah, thank you, Scott! I am looking forward to buying a 6-String Bass Guitar soon. Very informative. I mive my hand down the bass Strings as you showed us to do in one of your basic videos for begonners. Great exercise! I love music Theory too! I have 3 sets of learning books from Hal Leonard 2 sets are for basics and 1 set are for learning tab. I also have books for fretboard & music theory. I love the 6-string and plan on mastering it and learning as much as possible.

  • @eddieperez9565
    @eddieperez9565 4 роки тому

    I was at Sam Ash today and there was a Warwick thumb 6 I grabbed off the rack, I loved it, loved the feel of the neck and the depth of the bass sound. I went into the shop to have my 5 string jazz bass checked out for intonation. Problems. Took a little getting use to, but I'd buy one, fun to play with.

  • @vincenttume5812
    @vincenttume5812 6 років тому +3

    Scott, Great feature! The learning curve for the six is steeper but the pay-off at the end is so much more. The sound of the John P bass in the upper registers is simply beautiful.

  • @bobohbuboh8604
    @bobohbuboh8604 6 років тому +25

    Thanks for the muting tips. Any help about how to mute the B string while slapping the E string ?
    My neck is too large and I can't reach it with my thumb :(

    • @danoeb-g418
      @danoeb-g418 6 років тому +12

      MomoTheBellyDancer on guitar it is pretty common to mute with the fretting hand thumb. It's common to actually play notes with that thumb too while playing chords. Tons of teachers teach it and pros do it all the time

    • @bobohbuboh8604
      @bobohbuboh8604 6 років тому +1

      Thank you

    • @lightspeed79
      @lightspeed79 6 років тому +2

      Buy a fret wrap

    • @bobohbuboh8604
      @bobohbuboh8604 6 років тому +1

      Juan Pablo Monzon i have two, they are ok but it feels like cheating :) and the open string slap is quite muted

    • @Synequanon
      @Synequanon 6 років тому

      Fret wraps, I find them kind of cool for tapping technique.

  • @paulanderson79
    @paulanderson79 4 роки тому +2

    My 4th finger on both hands is quite short. A six string is like trying to play an ironing board for me. I have just two basses. An Ibanez four and a dead cheap Korean built Saein (Shine) 5 string. The string spacing is quite tight but it surprisingly good play and the active pickups are very quiet.

  • @michaelmione
    @michaelmione 6 років тому +1

    This open string feedback as you cross strings happens on my five-string as well... I never really thought about it as an issue with bass players so its pretty cool that this was discussed along with the right hand muting techniques. Just curious what about using those string dampeners that I see some bassists use around the nut?

  • @discos_out_murders_in6899
    @discos_out_murders_in6899 2 роки тому +3

    The hardest part for me when I got my first 6 string bass was adapting to playing drop tuning songs in a standard tuning, I bought Warwick Corvette studio edition, it was hell at the start because I didn't know my notes that well and I have Trump sized hands.

    • @joebaumgart1146
      @joebaumgart1146 Рік тому

      His hands are ewge! They're the biggest hands in the word. Ask, Rudy. Rudy said he has the most tremendous hands he's ever seen!

  • @clefdefa
    @clefdefa 6 років тому +123

    I'm not usre I agree with this video... I play 6 strings almost exclusively for the past 15 years. They are just more of the same. A lot of people says they are different just like a fretless is different and I don,t agree, to me it is more of the same, I play the same, I just have more option, more room.
    Also, a lot of 4 strings have shit technique when it comes to muting and fretting hand. They anchor their thumb either on the pickup or the E strings and the neck of the bass is in their palm so their thumb often touches the E string ... You can't do any of that on a 5 or 6 strings.
    Last thing, I think it is normal to wiggle and abuse the B and/or the C strings for a while. It is a way to make it part of your vocabulary instead of only using the middle strings and treat the B as a thumb rest. But I agree on a gig it isn't the place to do that but still, you have to wiggle and abuse those to make it part of you.

    • @spoddie
      @spoddie 6 років тому +5

      "widdle"

    • @jamesxlennon
      @jamesxlennon 6 років тому +1

      Not here, you'll make a mess.

    • @Hennu_TRM
      @Hennu_TRM 6 років тому +4

      Good points man. I think the whole abusing the B or C strings is a part of learning. You just need to eventually learn to get past that and be tasteful. But it's not a 5 or 6 string issue. I think back on my own playing experience, and there have been so many times I've found a lick or a scale or an interval on a certain chord type that I like and I've utterly abused it for a while but then eventually settle down and just add it to the bag of tricks. So yeah, it's not about the instrument, it's about the player and learning to incorporate new tricks tastefully.

    • @andyflanagan1533
      @andyflanagan1533 6 років тому +4

      Are you an idiot - on a four you are meant to have your thumb on the e at times to stop it ringing out - just like guitarists do

    • @jamesxlennon
      @jamesxlennon 6 років тому +5

      Be respectful mate, it's just bass playing.

  • @joelspinale8681
    @joelspinale8681 6 років тому

    Just happened to stumble upon this video while shopping for a six string (online). Great stuff, definitely subscribed now!! Thank you.

  • @derrickfyffe7269
    @derrickfyffe7269 2 роки тому

    Hello, and thank you for your videos. I
    have been wanting to learn the bass for a long time, but I couldn't afford to purchase one... A friend loan me one of his basses, and it's a 6 string. I would have preferred a 4 string but I am doing my best with this.
    The first point is a big challenge for me.. the strings kept ringing out (even when I didn't touch them). But I see your tip helping me after I try it..
    The other issue I have is that my wrist and hand dies every time I practice... I will get there though.. Thank you for the encouragement.

  • @JakeRosen635
    @JakeRosen635 6 років тому +11

    John Myung and Mark Michell are extremely talented, and they plays 6-strings

    • @ethan_6strings186
      @ethan_6strings186 3 роки тому

      Along with Steve digorgio and Dominic forest lapointe and Jared Smith (death/testament/session, first fragment/beyond creation, archspire)

  • @FelipeGomesProfessor
    @FelipeGomesProfessor 4 роки тому +6

    "6 string bass suck"
    Abraham Laboriel: "Hold my beer"

  • @Zax557
    @Zax557 27 днів тому +1

    Just got my first real 6-string (pun intended) and the points are very true.
    #1. I already used floating thumb so the muting wasn't terrible but you truly can't slack here the way you can on a 4-string.
    #2. The whiffing / noodling is real. "OK, let's learn this thing". 5 minutes later: "Hehe, chords go bing"
    #3. The more info is real as well. I felt like I knew the neck on a 5-string decently well, and since both 4 and 5 string basses have the same high end only the low B is different, it was fairly easy to transition between 4 and 5. However, a 6-string (if tuned in standard and not to low F#) gives you an extra high string as well, that really threw a wrench into my understanding of the neck and had me go "hold on, where am I?".

  • @trance9158
    @trance9158 4 роки тому

    Great 6er from Yamaha. I love the now discontinued Myung 6er though a bit more. The thinner neck just feels and plays like a dream for me.

  • @63stratoman
    @63stratoman 5 років тому +7

    I had a “six-banger” for about a year. Always thought they looked cool - especially the model you are playing. I found it exceptionally tiresome always reaching over the “C” to play standard bass stuff in “blues/classic rock/country” band situations. Traded it for another 5-string which is what I mainly use. Seems to me the only ones truly benefiting from a modern 6-string are the jazz players who have ample opportunity to solo on the upper register where the “high C” comes in handy. The reason I like the “bottom B” is to get to lower notes while playing upper neck positions along with the occasional “Drop D” where I can play without tuning down.

    • @Goldie_Hawn_Solo
      @Goldie_Hawn_Solo 2 роки тому +1

      Learning to play across the neck is a huge value to wear and tare on your hands, wrists and tendons. 6s force the player to have an excellent wrist angle at all times..and excellent muting strategies with the plucking hand. If it tired you out...that means your fretting hand is relatively undisciplined and as a result much more prone to fatigue, short term injury and especially long term injury. (Tendinitis).

  • @arjb2009
    @arjb2009 6 років тому +4

    Scott does Yamaha still sell those. Thought it was discontinued. Nice tone. Would love to get my hands on one.

    • @Grumdot
      @Grumdot 6 років тому +1

      Andy Barnwell yes they do sell them. You find them at online stores

    • @allenmccray7159
      @allenmccray7159 6 років тому

      I'll take it I need a new bass plz

  • @DevlinDomini
    @DevlinDomini 2 роки тому

    As someone kinda new to your videos, I have to say it looks like you have an awesome life. Good for you, brother.

  • @handlerkm
    @handlerkm 6 років тому

    definitely exactly what my issue was, no wonder!
    walked into the shop wanting to explore 5/6 strings, and 100% was just thinking of them as 4 strings with extras, rather than an instrument in its own right
    good video

  • @tamarazawada
    @tamarazawada 6 років тому +262

    This video should be titled: 3 reasons why YOU suck on a 6 string bass (and how to fix it) :D

  • @MeshuggahDave.
    @MeshuggahDave. 3 роки тому +2

    Scott, I would love to see a complete “widdle” tut video. I know my scales and modes and I just don’t understand how you modulate and doodle around all the trills and embellishments.
    I mean is this the part where I would be better off just learning different artists lines? I’ve never been someone into all the big names and all that. Could that be a flaw, just as not knowing theory can be a flaw? I hope that doesn’t sound snobbish. Being real

  • @Keepler22b
    @Keepler22b 10 місяців тому

    nice:) im getting a 6 string bass now. good thing im using that thumb technique...started using that a couple of years ago, and now its floating like a dream. Easier to adapt to a 6 string:)

  • @jeremyparris6121
    @jeremyparris6121 2 роки тому +2

    Been playing a fiver for years. Pre-ordered the Ibanez BTB806MS because it has my entire wishlist of bells and whistles plus the extra vertical range. Really hoping I didn't make a mistake. We'll see

  • @pensnut08
    @pensnut08 6 років тому +20

    All basses are tools if you will. Only thing that "sucks" would be the quality of the instrument.
    Amount of strings they have doesn't make them any better or any worse than any other. If you like 4.. Cool... 5?? Great.. A 6? Killer.. 7, 8,, 9, 10.... Have at it! I completely enjoyed this video!!

    • @willb3698
      @willb3698 6 років тому +6

      pensnut08 - I would go as far to say that it's the player that makes the difference - even on the cheapest of cheapest.

    • @kvltovfreki6020
      @kvltovfreki6020 6 років тому

      (Insert SMG reference about bassists here)

  • @bayce3
    @bayce3 6 років тому +28

    I've played 6's ... (mostly my Curbow Petite 6) for over 20 years and get plenty of work because of my approach which is groove and pocket FIRST. ....you have to be disciplined to play ONLY what the music needs you to play. ....Just because the 6 has 2 additional strings doesn't mean you have to play them all the time....."Widdle" when it's required. .....when its not, GROOVE.

    • @seagab..bschons5620
      @seagab..bschons5620 6 років тому +3

      Timmie Raynor III....Well said my man..i used to really dislike the whole idea of playing more than the traditional 4 strings.. this was mainly because if 4 strings was good enough for the Legends who played on untold million $ selling hit songs why fix what aint broken. Most bands who have a bass player expects he or she to know their role especially when there is a guitarist with an over inflated ego present. That role is (as you rightly said) to basically carry the band with a rock solid "groove" (covering any of their mistakes along the way) and boy dont we ..Also being ready to throw in that flash bass solo "if" and "when" called upon.. Apart from that who needs a bassist to play high pitched lead solos or chords, thats the guitarists job surely (im joking) 🤣 unless its to gain revenge on the bass player jokes of the past...i think we have well and truly kicked some ass on that score thanks to a whole army of slapping, tapping, popping heroes doing their endless rounds of the worlds music stores and Utube these days.. However im kinda coming round to the idea of having more room to be extra creative and also push those assumed boundaries. Who knows maybe Violin,double bass and Cello players could become 6,8, 10 even 12 string players too and add chords. Why should thinking outside the box stop at bass players..BLESSINGS..

  • @littlewoodenboy1971
    @littlewoodenboy1971 5 років тому

    You do great work on this channel. Kudos.

  • @brack7172
    @brack7172 6 років тому

    I was in possession of a Warwick 5 string for over a year before I felt good enough to gig out with it. I wanted to play 5 string bass in earnest. I totally get this. In regards to the 6 factor.

  • @adamgomorimusic
    @adamgomorimusic 5 років тому +6

    “The case smells good”
    Same, bro. Same lol

  • @devilsoffspring5519
    @devilsoffspring5519 5 років тому +10

    #1 reason why 6-string bass sux:
    String sets are too expensive, they take 50% longer to tune, and you only use half of them anyway :)

    • @rebeltuba9422
      @rebeltuba9422 4 роки тому

      Yes, and difficult to find. Yes, but so what. No, you use 2/3 99% of the time.

  • @geoffreyschulz1872
    @geoffreyschulz1872 4 роки тому +1

    I currently own (and play) John's Knooren 6 string bass that he got rid of when he signed with Yamaha. I presume the Yamaha Patatuci bass has John's setup, which is slightly wider spaces between the strings (to accommodate his stumpy fingers). With my left hand flat on the finger board, my middle finger barely reaches the B string. The main benefit I see with a 6 string bass is most apparent when sight reading. 6 strings provides 2 and a half octaves without shifting positions (low B to high F in one position).

  • @chrisggoodwin777
    @chrisggoodwin777 5 місяців тому

    11/19/2023 I'm rewatching this video (again lol). This video and the Anthony Jackson video inspired me to try a sixer. I've been playing 6 string exclusively for about 2 years now and am thoroughly enjoying it! I have gotten good at the right hand thumb muting

  • @jameslucas1476
    @jameslucas1476 6 років тому +19

    A 6 string has more notes. You still have to fulfill your role in the music. Taste is required. It's the person behind the Bass, not how many strings. It only has 5 more notes on the bottom and 5 more notes on the top. The octaves are all there in the money note region.

  • @lol1234536978
    @lol1234536978 6 років тому +79

    Meanwhile I’m here with my 8 string Conklin.....

    • @47tilinfinity29
      @47tilinfinity29 6 років тому +20

      Meanwhile the dude with the stalin mustache has 24 strings...

    • @jimmyb1tch35
      @jimmyb1tch35 6 років тому +4

      DogeWaffle1 / Doge it's Davey504 now

    • @thatdude4257
      @thatdude4257 6 років тому

      spencer koeller master 4 before you jump to 8..... Jaco was the greatest bassist ever and 4 was plenty for him. You saying you're better?

    • @miket2646
      @miket2646 6 років тому +5

      1Rad Honeybadger jaco was also a junkie that got kicked to death after mouthing off to a bouncer

    • @thatdude4257
      @thatdude4257 6 років тому

      Mike Mike Jaco was a legend who inspired the greatest people to play bass ever. You are no one but somebody who's jealous and clueless.

  • @TrentJacobs
    @TrentJacobs 6 років тому

    @6:00 I have been trying to accomplish this just on my 5 string bass but my thumb still allows harmonics of the low strings (E and B) to come out. I've asked Ariane Cap about this and watched her video about this but still having trouble in this regard. Any further suggestions besides "practice more"? Specific places above the strings that tend to deaden better or let fewer harmonics through? Maybe I just have a more bony thumb that doesn't pad the strings as much...

  • @toyiotawithlove
    @toyiotawithlove 4 роки тому

    35" scale, some of the earlier ones were neck through, that one is bolt on neck, also the A string on the headstock does not line up paralell with the tuners, great sounding bass, Yamaha quality

  • @Nelmof
    @Nelmof 6 років тому +5

    The issue about the B string is just for 6 strings basses? What about a (standard) 5 string bass?

    • @shredfreak83
      @shredfreak83 6 років тому +1

      this one doesn't have issue's at all though. Yamaha's are genererally 35inch scale for 5 & 6 string. 34 can have issue's from time to time although nothing that can't be helped.

    • @OlettaLiano
      @OlettaLiano 6 років тому +1

      I don't like B strings, so I tune mine like standard 4 string, plus the high C and F strings.

    • @jamesxlennon
      @jamesxlennon 6 років тому +1

      It's still an issue for 5 strings, but not quite as much. He does cover this in his 5 string video. The further you get away from the low B, the more attention you have to pay to muting it, because your thumb wants to lift up from the strings the higher you get. The C is just that little bit further away than the G, so it's a bigger problem on a 6 string. Still an issue on a 5, but not so much on a 4.

    • @OlettaLiano
      @OlettaLiano 6 років тому +2

      Muting isn't a problem for me and I'm a female with small hands. I cheat a little by wrapping a hairband around the neck just in front of the nut. I think I got the idea from watching Victor Wooten play.

    • @Nelmof
      @Nelmof 6 років тому

      Hey Shredfreak83! that's the point... he uses to play a 5 strings bass and presented issues about noise of a B string for a 6 strings.... it's just about a way to play and doesn't matter 5 or 6 strings on this case. About a "standard" 5 strings it's regarding the tones of the strings (B-E-A-D-G)... some bass players uses E-A-D-G-C. Not sure if he uses it on his 5 string basses... And after all he's telling that a 6 string bass sucks!

  • @MichaelTartar
    @MichaelTartar 6 років тому +3

    Marcello Giuliani of the Erik Truffaz Quartet

  • @christophergregory1205
    @christophergregory1205 5 років тому

    Dude, that little lick you played at 11:06 was soooo sweet!

  • @pensatorseven1898
    @pensatorseven1898 4 роки тому

    Love your vids Scott!!!!!!!!!!