Bass Problem, Musical instruments are SO confusing!! Options

[xconnieLOOHOOx07]

Does anybody know the difference between a four-string bass and a five-string bass??

It seems that four strings are more popular than five, but then again, I could be wrong...

Help!

[Amy]

Five string basses have an extra string. It adds 5 more extra notes over the 4 strings in standard tuning. Well, really only 3 if you retune the E string on the 4 string bass to get the extra 2 notes from the 5 string. It plays lower notes than the 4 string. It's not really needed for most types of music. It's usually in metal.

[*mipadi*]

As noted, the five-string bass has an extra string--generally a low B that is a fifth below the normally lowest string (E), although sometimes there is a high C string instead. It allows for greater range.

Four-string basses are normally used in most types of rock and jazz. Five-string basses are especially used in metal, funk, rap, and some other forms of music that are especially reliant on a low, steady beat. Five-string basses are usually slapped or plucked, whereas four-string basses are often picked, but that's more due to the style of the music than any limitation in the bass itself.

[acidophilus]

It has an extra string. Bigger neck. Yaddayadda. That's basically it.