Author Topic: SC 5 String Short Scale (Read 106 times)

frank_orlando · « **on:** May 10, 2008, 10:00:43 AM »

Hello... I am looking at an SC Delux short scale 5-string (30 1/2). I never played a short scale strung BEADG. Can anyone shed any light on how this B string will perform? I know... I know... It's an Alembic... but geometry and physics still prevail and that B has to be somwhat floppy and maybe even a bit thuddy compared to a medium or long scale... yes? Thanks, Frank

bassman10096 · « **Reply #1 on:** May 10, 2008, 07:41:49 PM »

You might want to contact the owner of this bass: http://club.alembic.com/Images/631/6033.html?1069969768. He reported some issues with the low B on his short scale and the thread never indicated a resolution. I thought some of the suggestions from posters (particularly the last one on the thread) were pretty astute. The other source you might want to seek out is Mica. If I recall correctly, she had some comments on short scale 5 stringers.

Here's another thought, that doesn't really relate to string tension: I don't know if you've played a small standard/short scale before, but the way it feels to play is more like a long scale Fender than many other short scales. That's because the bridge is located quite a long way up the body of the bass, forcing a longer reach out the neck to the nut. I find the longer reach more comfortable than most short scales (With shorter reach to the nut - I tend to run my left arm into my side and get my wrist into uncomfortable positions playing up the neck) Good luck.

frank_orlando · « **Reply #2 on:** May 10, 2008, 09:05:43 PM »

Thanks for that info. I just sent him an email but it bounced back stating no such email account. I am going to look at this another way. Until I can play it or hear raves about the tone and feel of the short scale B, I am going to sit this one out. $4,500 is a lot to gamble on sight unseen without the opportunity to play it. Thank you again...

flaxattack · « **Reply #3 on:** May 11, 2008, 10:42:37 PM »

i know that val and i believe mica werent too fond of short scale with bs on them
i have a medium scale with low bs on them. the main issue for lack of a better word is tuning is super precise from what i guess is a lack of tension
its not that floppy otherwise i wouldnt have built the second custom. so my quess? going from 32 to 30 is gonna make a huge difference not to mention no one i know makes short scale b strings meaning you will end up cutting a long scale down past the wrapping and thats just asking for trouble.