5-String Bass Guitars

The 5-string bass guitar emerged in the 1980s to accommodate extended low-range playing, adding a low B string for greater tonal depth. This extra range is beneficial for metal, jazz, and gospel, where lower notes enhance musical expression. Notable manufacturers include Warwick, Spector, Fender, and Schecter, with models like the Warwick Thumb 5, Spector Euro 5, Fender Jazz Bass V, and Schecter Stiletto Custom 5. Many professional bassists use 5-strings for their versatility in modern music, allowing for seamless transitions between octaves without shifting positions.