Is A Short Scale Bass Better?

Both full-scale and short scale basses have their pros and cons. While a 34” scale is considered the industry standard, shorter-scale basses have many plaudits that appreciate their more ergonomic feel. Neither is better than the other of course – it’s all down to preference!

Are short scale basses worth it?

Why choose a short-scale bass? The first and most obvious reason to use a short-scale bass is its physical size. With their shorter necks, less distance between frets, and more compact general dimensions, short-scale basses are an excellent choice for players with smaller hands.

Does a short scale bass sound different?

So, while there’s an obvious visual difference between long- and short-scale basses, many players wonder: Do they sound different? Yes, definitely. For one thing, short-scale bass guitars sometimes use a slightly heavier string gauge than their long-scale brothers, which imparts a thicker tone.

What is the difference between a short scale bass and a regular bass?

In addition to differences in size, weight, and playability, short-scale basses also have a unique sound as well! Short scales usually have a fatter low end with a softer attack than a standard scale bass. The overall tone is usually thicker, darker, and with more “thump.”

Are short scale basses better for small hands?

Short-scale bass guitars are usually a lot easier to play than their full-length counterparts. This is due to the lesser string tension as well as the smaller size. This is also the reason why short-scale basses are preferred by beginners, students, or young players with smaller hands or fingers.

Does paul McCartney play short scale bass?

Famous Short Scale Bass Players
In fact, arguably the most famous living musician today uses them; Paul McCartney! Relying on a Hofner 500/1 “Violin” bass back in the ’60s when he was a part of The Beatles, McCartney is still often seen playing this distinctive 30” bass in his solo performances; over 50 years later.

Which bass is easiest to play?

Fender’s electric bass guitar was easier to play than the traditional upright, fretless bass — and much easier to transport. Electric bass guitars also produced a more substantial low-end rumble that filled the room. If you want to play rock and roll, electric bass guitars are the best choice for beginners.

What bass scales to learn first?

Scale 1 – The Major Scale
The major scale is the backbone of all Western Music and it’s the number one scale all beginner bassists should know. Here’s what you need to know: The Major Scale contains 8 notes and has a ‘happy’ sound to it. The Major Scale will work over any Major Chord.

Should a beginner get a short scale bass?

Short-scale basses are great for beginners. They are also great for intermediate and professional bassists. While starting on a short-scale bass can make it easier to pick up the bass, it is generally better to start with a standard-sized bass if you intend to switch to a 34″ later on anyway.

Is 32 short scale for a bass?

In the years since, manufacturers have released bass guitars of varying scale lengths, and players tend to group their instruments into one of three categories: short scale for 30 to 30.5 inches, medium for 32 inches, and long for 34 inches and, occasionally, 35 inches.

Which bass type is best?

1. Fender Vintera ’50s Precision Bass. One of the best bass guitars money can buy.
2. Sterling by Music Man StingRay4. One of the best bass guitars ever made at a budget price.
3. Epiphone Thunderbird 60s Bass.
4. Ibanez SRMS805.
5. Yamaha TRBX 305.
6. Hofner Ignition SE Violin Bass.
7. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazz Bass.
8. G&L Tribute L-2000.

What is the most common bass scale?

The Major Scale
1. The Major Scale. The major scale is the most common and important type of bass scale.

Can I use regular strings on short scale bass?

Yes, you can certainly make a set of long scale strings work on a shorter scale length bass but you definitely need to choose your strings wisely.

How tall should you be for a 3/4 bass?

Unlike violins where a violinist typically grows into a 4/4 violin, with the bass, the standard and most popular size by far is 3/4. Few 4/4 basses are made or played.
Upright Bass Sizes.

Can you slap on a short scale bass?

I own 2 shortscale (30in scale ) basses and I’ve found that inn both of them they simply aren’t very responsive to a slap play style, especially the e string just sounds like a dull thud and lacks the clear ringing sounds I’m able to achieve while slapping and popping on a 34in or 32in scale bass.

Do heavy basses sound better?

No factor indicates that heavy bass guitars provide a better tone. The instrument’s sound is influenced by the quality of materials, assembly, and most importantly, by the skills of the person who plays it. So, no – a heavy bass guitar does not mean a better tone.

Is a Mustang bass short scale?

The Mustang Bass is considered a “short scale” bass guitar meaning it’s scale length is 30”…. Around 4” shorter than it’s P-Bass and Jazz Bass big brothers. Small in size, perhaps!

Is a short scale bass the same as 3 4 bass?

A short scale bass guitar (which is often referred to as a ‘3/4 bass guitar’, or a ‘small bass guitar’). Short scale bass guitars typically hover around the 30” mark for scale length, placing them right about in the middle between a full-sized bass and a standard guitar.

Are Fender Mustang short scale?

The Fender Mustang Bass has an offset body shape and is a great short scale choice. Styled after the popular Fender Mustang guitar, the Mustang bass appeals to those after something a little different. The scale length is 30″ which is 4″ less than Fender’s standard bass scale length.

Is bass harder to learn than guitar?

Playing the bass requires a different knowledge base and skill set, so to speak. So no, the bass isn’t necessarily easier to play than the electric guitar. If you can’t play the guitar, then just play bass. This is somewhat connected to the myth above.

What colors do bass prefer?

The cellular composition of the largemouth bass’ eye is tuned to respond to two colors: red and green. Bass can see these colors well, and make decisions with high selectivity based on these colors.