@@reneebear3641oh yeah they do. Look closely, the B-String on the MS is tapered. If you think that „this can’t make that much of a difference“, I urge you to spend 10$ for a tapered B and actually try it before spending 2000$ on a new bass
@@GODenWord This. Besides the string tension factor. The sounds are totally different. You will never get a multiscale to sound like a regular scale bass and vice versa. The ideal case scenario is to have one of each just like guitarists have more than one depending on what sounds they want in their arsenal. Otherwise, if you can just get one...grab the one that fits the genre you will be playing the most. I currently have a Musicman Bongo 5 so I am aiming to get a multiscale bass for downtuned metal fun.
The multiscale was clearer in tone across notes, especially in a mix, but there's also still a lot appealing (and perhaps nostalgic) about the tones of the standard. It is what we've been playing music off of for decades so it works because it is. Great comparison, I think I've gleaned some interesting insights from this. Been wanting multiscale for a long time, but I don't think I'll ever abandon either and instead consider them situationally. Both variants are great.
Ok, I'm sold on multi scale now. Thought it was a gimmick but never had any one explain it's purpose. Makes total sense now. Thanks for the great video.
Mind blown. I thought the multi scale was just for aesthetics but it makes logical sense. You can immediately hear the weight and tone of the low B which means there's less to do EQ wise. I was always disappointed with 5 string bass reviews because they hardly ever play the low B. I will be trying a few before making a purchase. Thanks for this.
The other benefit is the higher strings are warmer without being shrill. It's almost as if each string has a separate EQ, very striking to hear in person.
The pickups are also further from the bridge on the lower strings which probably gives it more of that bass you’re hearing. I usually have a slight neck pickup bias with pickups in a jazz bass configuration, so having that essentially baked in is awesome for me.
I'm a lefty myself and I've wanted a multiscale bass for the last few years. I finally pulled the trigger on getting a custom made one from a local luthier. This comparison video proves I made the correct choice. The difference is night and day. I will probably turn my other 5 string into a High C strung bass.
doing the high c 5 string is so much fun i used to play in drop b with a 5 it was kind of the best of both worlds having the low notes but still having a xtra high string B F# B E A
@@codyhansonbass its a bit harder to explain but think about it like a wah pedal fixed at some point of the expression pedal. that happen when you change pickup position or make weird coil mixes.
affecting the pressence of other strings. sometimes can "mute" or alter the ring of notes, giving a character that can be mid rangy, treble, deep or even "gutural" like those talk effect pedals
What a great video. So well done. If I hadn't already gone multi-scale, this video would have pushed me there. I've owned tons of different 5 string makes and I was never truly happy with the B string. I had one Modulus that came the closest to being okay. The day that my first Dingwall arrived was a revelation. I don't even use the B string on my other 5's now. It's just too disappointing. It's not just the open B, but all the way up to about the 7th fret is so great sounding. The E string is also much better than any bass I've owned. Once I yanked the Tone Capsule out, I was even happier.
🤯 Uhhh wow. I’ve always struggled with my Fender Jazz V because the D-B notes always felt like the sound just “fell away” due to low tension. This is a game changer. Now I am on a mission for a multi scale. Thank you so much for the review and time to educate us!
Great video. I've never been too interested in multi scale, and I stand by that, but if I ever get a 5 string it will definitely be multi scale for that bottom clarity.
Just got my first MS few months ago. Recorded and gigged the hell out of it. Metal, pop, HipHop… the later two FoH guys were like: “eww, dude… that’s a metal thing only…” After the gigs they loved it so much. Same goes for the recording. Btw…it’s a Dingwall NG3 In gold. Never go back, unless it’s like a blues gig or something…
I wonder if it's finger placement that's making a difference, cause on the short scale his fingers are closer to the bridge which would make it sound brighter
@@Durkhead that, and the fact that the pickups on a multiscale aren't as slanted as they should be (it's like if on a parallel-fret bass the bass side of the pickups was closer to the fretboard, like a telecaster bridge pickup). Also, aside from the slant, bridge pickup on a multiscale seems to be relatively closer to the fretboard
@@Durkhead the best way I can describe it is each string has an identical timbre as compared to a traditional bass. The B has defined overtones while the G is warmer and not shrill. The E also sounds phenomenal on these basses as it has more overtones than what we are used to hearing.
I have a Dingwall Combustion 5/3 that I absolutely love. One thing I've never seen addressed in multi scale review videos is right hand technique. When you play in one spot on the low B and move toward the G string without moving you hand toward the neck, you end up playing much closer to the bridge on the G string, giving it a thinner tonality. Fortunately for me, I use floating thumb technique, so I'm able to move my right hand toward the neck easily as I move to the higher pitched strings. I try to follow the angle of the pickups so I keep some evenness in my plucking hand. Great comparison video.
I always thought the lower strings on a multiscale bass would sound more bassy and clearer vs a normal bass. Thank you for your video. Multiscale 5 string on my wishlist.
Great demonstration bro! I've had a few Dingwalls, my first MS was an EHB which I still play all the time, and I had the LTD1004ms and a kiesel 35-33ms. The 37" B is so far ahead for clarity than a 35" and I love it for clean tones. With some overdrive or fuzz I can pretty well replicate tones regardless of the bass in my hands. I do still prefer playing the EHB or even Kiesels MS for speed and comfort. My main fiver is actually a parallel fret 35" with an amazing B with all the bell like tone. I completely agree with you as far as playing 37"Ms in a live setting, they just carve out their place and present better in the mix.
Excellent comparison between the two models. Well done! I’ve got a black Dimension HP on order and cannot wait to get it! Spector has ruled since the early ‘80’s!
This is a great video. This exactly the kind of comparison I was looking for. I had incorrectly equated multi scale with modern metal. You did an great job demonstrating the instruments in other styles.
I’ve been playing a multi scale bass regularly for about a year. I love the even response across all strings and registers. I especially love what it does for the clarity of the low-B. To me, multi scale makes cleaner and smoother overall tone great for more modern styles.
I love the multiscale I own an Ibanez BTB 806 MS getting used to the angled frets was not difficult at all. I do have a suggestion I have challenged myself to learn to play with tight latex gloves and my string's new sound lasts forever. Simply because the oils from my hands do not get on the strings therefore keeps them fresh you should try it
I’ve tried a couple but they’re few and far between at my local shops. They feel great though, and remind me of those “balanced tension” string sets like D’Addario makes. The even response is amazing. I wish companies would be less afraid to make multi scale five strings in the $400-$800 range and make them popular enough to dedicated support from string manufacturers.
Upgrading from an ibanez sr506 (standard scale) to an ibanez btb806ms (multiscale 37” low end) next week. Super hyped to hear/feel the difference after watching this video.
I play a multiscale 6 string tunes F#, B, E, A, D, G, and I love it. Honestly feels weird playing regular scale basses now, and even with a more as low as F# I still get clarity. For low tunings, multiscale is the way
I purchased my Spector Dimension 5 in March of 23. I've been playing 4-string standard for 30+ years and I wanted a 5 to get those low notes. I played several brands before deciding on the Spector. It just felt good, sounds great, and multiscale provides more clarity. A multiscale is probably not for everyone as the instrument needs to fit comfortably. Everything he says in this video, both pros and cons I absolutely agree with after playing mine for several months. One thing he did not mention is that my bass stays in tune much better than a standard. I sure it has everything to do with the string tension. I hit my strings hard, but it stays in tune. I have a little bit smaller hands than average and the multiscale ergonomics work very well for me. It took me about 10 minutes to get used to the angled frets. If you're thinking about a multiscale, find a couple to play before you purchase.
I have a Spector Dimension 5 and a Tobias 5 string 34" scale. We tune a half step down and the B string starts to get floppy on the Tobias. The multiscale Spector with Fishman pickups sounds amazing. It doesn't take long to get used to a multiscale and I can't recommend the Spector enough, especially with the Fishman's. I don't think I could choose just one bass between the two. Both are awesome!
I own two five-string-basses. the first one was a cheap standard scale model. the multi-scale bass cost 5 times as much - so that's gonna factor into my perception of my instruments. nonetheless: the ergonomics and acoustic properties of the multi-scale 5-string are a joy to have at your disposal. 100% satisfied with making that purchase.
This really seals the deal for me. I'm getting one of these before the end of the year if they manage to show up in Europe. That Spector growl is even growlier with multiscale 🤤 Regarding strings I find that stainless steel has the most options. DR XL-scale, for example, are 40" long.
I looked at the Spector multi-scale for months. I loved the look and all the reviews seemed spot on to what I was looking for. One thing that always got me, whether it was a jazz V, stingray 5, Ibanez 5.. just about any 5 string I have tried... the B just never sounded clear. So to me, unless I was at the 5th fret or up, the B just didn't work. A buddy sold me a Dingwall ABZ 5. I love the B string now, from open string all the way up. Now I just have to work on getting used to the fanned frets.
I have an Ibanez SRMS805 that I love and use all the time. I haven't had any trouble finding strings, but it's only a 34-35.5" scale so I guess it's less of an issue. I have never really tried to buy flats or tapes before either, until I got a fretless recently, but it's a standard length 4 string. The comparison was cool. Sounds so much better to me, I'm not sure I would ever buy a non-multiscale 5 string honestly.
Love the video. Side note. Longer scale gives you more clarity, a more “piano-like sound”, as mentioned in the video. If someone likes the floppy, wubby sounds of a bass guitar, short scales(like 30inch) let you get the wubby sounds on your D and G strings.
Great comparison. I only recently just played my first multi-scale and it's great. Very noticeable sound difference. Sidenote, I'm pretty certain that scale length is measured from the fingerboard side of the nut to the center of the 12th fret and then multiplying that value by 2 and not from nut to bridge. edit: added the note of multiplying by 2, figured it was obvious...
Yes, 12th x 2 == fretboard edge of nut to bridge saddle position. 34 scale measures 17 to 12th fret and same to the nominal bridge location. I've made a few and that's how it's done.
I'm actually looking at a multi scale guitar, so your video popped up on my feed. It was a good watch, I'm glad I did. Thanks 😊 Oh, I'm now going to buy a multi scale. That thing sounded sweet as..
The tone is clearer on the multiscale, but the standard is so much more musical. It bubbles and vibrates differently on each string, the multiscale is just a consistent tone, sounds more like a bass synth than a warm bass tone
The B string on my Spector Euro 5LX leaves nothing to be desired IMO but the multi scale in this video was better than the standard. Also an Elixir user here. Love those strings.
Until I saw this video, I didn't realize how much I was missing it. I thought that the multi-scale instrument was clearly different sounding, and your wide range of music styles showed how it can really shine with the right music. In the piece you played starting at about 7:20, I thought that the standard scale instrument actually sounded better in that A/B comparison. I have 2 different standard scale 5 strings, and now I may need to add a multi-scale to the mix. Next, maybe try out a super long scale? I see some videos of a 39" scale 4 string...
My fulltime basses are a 68 and a 73-telecaster bass. I use Labella 45-105 flats, strung through body. I love the tension and sound of the A string. The open E is sometimes lost in the mix. Never have I played a multi scale. I do like a single pickup passive bass.
The difference is stark and immediately apparent. If you have any aspirations of a solid B string, then you need the longest scale length you can possibly muster. The fundamentals on the B and E strings are so much stronger, and the harmonic balance is so much better on the multi-scale bass, that it makes you wonder why any of us are still playing conventional instruments. Now, if only they didn't look so weird!
Aside from audible, yet not shocking differences in tone and clarity - additional tension on the lower string slightly increases the relief on the bass side of the neck and encourages droptuning. Can affect the ease of playing chords in both directions, depending on chord shape and neck region. Still, should be a new standard for basses
Love the video. I have a multiscale 9 string guitar; Legator ninja. It took me no time to get used to the feel of the frets and the tension on each string is awesome. My 8 string isn't a multiscale and the low string gets muddy, however my 9 string doesn't get that way because of the multiscale scale
I own a multi scale, gotta agree. Notes are definitely clear and full of definition when playing. Ever since I own a headless multi scale bass. I refuse to go back to straight scale basses (and guitars too)
Great video, and thanks for the comparison! I have a 5-string Ibanez EDB-605 but i've wanted a multiscale for a while. I built my own, and it sounds really great. For strings, it's hard finding the right set. I currently have D'Addario ETB92-5 5-String Tapewound Long Scale, which works pretty well. They should last forever; we'll see. Only down side is that the tension is too much for one of the strings (i can't remember which), so i have to drop-tune it, which isn't so bad, but switching between the two tunings melts my brain for a bit. I also have Rotosound Tru Bass 88 Nylon Tapewounds for 6 string on my Ibanez, and they're pretty good. I think I may have gotten Magma strings (but i forget) at one point, and they lasted me or 20 years, but I'm also not playing every day for as long as you probably are. Good luck finding a great pair of strings for this, and let us know if you get some that you'd recommend. Cheers!
I had a Dingwall which was awesome. Now I'm on a quite rare Fender Aerodyne which I really like. I didn't have any issues with the fanned frets. Generally it was easier for me to play. Miss that Dingwall...
I've got a 35" Schecter Stiletto and also a 34" - 36" Schecter Stiletto. Tonal wise, they sound identical, but the 36" low B does, in fact, sound tighter and fuller than the 35" B. However, this video also shows a tonality change that I don't have on my Schecters. The 35" model's tone overall just sounds more "burpy" and the multi-scale sounds more well-rounded, but clear. I think there's more going on than just scale length in this vid, but I'm not sure what other than perhaps strings or maybe the EQ knobs got bumped on one of them...? Edit: I bet it's the pickup location relative to the string. The 35" pickups are just overall closer to the bridge than the multi-scale. On the 35", you can see there's about an inch or an inch and a half from the bridge contact point to the beginning of the pickup on all 5 strings. On the multi-scale, there looks to be a solid 2 or even 3 inches between the bridge contact point and the bridge pickup.
I personally think that most of the tonal difference between the multiscale and the regular version is due to Josh hitting the strings further away from the bridge compared to where he hits the string on the regular version since a bigger part of the string is in the back while the pickups stay in the same position relative to the neck. The difference, at least what I could hear, wasn't all that pronounced on the more gentle playing that Nick did...so while I think that there probably is a difference I really think that the benefit of an even string tension across all strings is in my opinion the main reason to buy a multiscale bass. But as Nick mentioned, buying or rather finding strings that actually are long enough, limits your choices to what brands you can use...also they tend to be more expensive than regular strings. So you have higher regular expenses and you have to (maybe) play a brand of strings that you don't want to use. But I really like the look of theses basses, so they got that going for them.
Thanks for the comparison. When I first saw these guitars, I thought it was just for ergonomics, but I was completely wrong. I could be missing something, but this tells me fanned/multiscale guitars/basses are the future without a doubt. The tone is so significantly better it's amazing it took so long for them to start getting popular.
Great comparison. You can obviously hear string change on the fanned fret bass far better. Same problem as with the dingwalls.. Both of them sound nice though.
The multiscale's bridge pickup is further away from the bridge/higher up the scale than the standard bass, resulting in a more bottom heavy, scooped midrange, combined with higher tension just results in a more tight low end.
I purchased the Dimension 5 String 10 months ago, and although the Fishman electonics is good, it has nothing on my regular 5 String Spector Euro with the tone pump. I find that I have to turn up my amp to almost twice the volume when using the Dimension to reach the same sound level as my Euro. In my world, good is the enemy of great! So I am in the process of changing out the pickups for some EMG’s. For the first 3 or 4 months when playing the Dimension, the low B,C, and D notes would really surprise me with their clarity and character. Unfortunately, I am getting used to it. Now when I play my Euro 5 string and hitting those same low notes, it almost feels like the notes are not in tune. When the day comes that I have Spector build me an instrument, I will request that it be a multi-scale. Oh, by the way, the quality of the Dimension instrument, is excellent. The neck is also thinner than my Euro. One small caveat, the tuning pegs could of been better. They feel really cheap. Perhaps I should make a TH-cam video.
Pretty much completely agree. Worst apart about fanned fret life is having to pay £44 for a set of strings! I also agree about the frets up high being more difficult but I also don't spend much time up there. For B I feel like a 35 inch does the trick, comparing this to a 34 inch would have been night and day (I know Spector don't do many 34 inch basses so this comparison if fair enough). When going to A and below though, 37 is the absolute way! Good to see Nick back too xxx
The standard scale is muddy enough that a few times it was hard for me to pick out the note. The multi-scale was clear every time. It was easier to hear the fundamental. The difference isn’t huge, but enough that it would noticeably affect a recording.
I like these flat-wounds best, they sound great on my both of my fretless 5 Stringers. Ernie Ball 2816 Regular Slinky Flatwound Electric Bass Guitar Strings - .045-.130 5-string
Thanks for this video. It is exactly what I experienced! The MS have superior clarity and tone. Please share more info about MS strings and how to get them. Thanks again.
I've been waiting for a good direct comparison video for standard and multiscale basses, and this one is it! Thanks so much for putting this together.
its literally the perfect side-by-side aint it
brother, they aren't even using the same strings.
@@miguelfernandes333
Different strings wouldn’t make that much difference
which string brand offers the same set in both balanced tension and parallel tension sets@@miguelfernandes333
@@reneebear3641oh yeah they do. Look closely, the B-String on the MS is tapered. If you think that „this can’t make that much of a difference“, I urge you to spend 10$ for a tapered B and actually try it before spending 2000$ on a new bass
That multi scale was SO much less muddy. Amazing.
I wouldnt call that muddy but mid-rangey which imo sounds and cuts thru the mix better. I like the 5th string more on the multiscale tho.
I agree
35" scale Spectors sound anything but muddy.
But maybe you want mudy sound. Personaly i do.
@@GODenWord This. Besides the string tension factor. The sounds are totally different. You will never get a multiscale to sound like a regular scale bass and vice versa. The ideal case scenario is to have one of each just like guitarists have more than one depending on what sounds they want in their arsenal. Otherwise, if you can just get one...grab the one that fits the genre you will be playing the most. I currently have a Musicman Bongo 5 so I am aiming to get a multiscale bass for downtuned metal fun.
This is without a doubt the best Multi vs standard scale comparison I've seen in a long time. Props for doing the non-conventional genres as well 👏👏
Agreed 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
Creedence on a multiscale active spector with a darkglass preamp is the joyous internet event of the week I didn't know I needed. Love your work dude.
Am I wrong, or is it Josh playing? Nevertheless, great job with demo's and review!
also to the spector social media manager reading this comment, make a 6 string dimension - i dare you
Double dog dare ya.
@@jonsidell3338triple dog dare
Quadruple dog dare
I’m just gonna skip ahead and get right to it…sextuple dog dare
JUST DO IT ALREADY
You’re messing with my brain with your perfect video transitions making it look like the bass is morphing back and forth! Well played! 😂
I know man! I thought I was on shrooms lmao
Chris does a killer job with these edits!
That's why Chris is a videographer for hire as his regular job, too, and not just for the channel!
with audio in perfect sync
Really cool hearing these back to back, get video as always! 🤘
Thank you kindly! We were stoked to do this
The multiscale was clearer in tone across notes, especially in a mix, but there's also still a lot appealing (and perhaps nostalgic) about the tones of the standard. It is what we've been playing music off of for decades so it works because it is.
Great comparison, I think I've gleaned some interesting insights from this. Been wanting multiscale for a long time, but I don't think I'll ever abandon either and instead consider them situationally.
Both variants are great.
Ok, I'm sold on multi scale now. Thought it was a gimmick but never had any one explain it's purpose. Makes total sense now. Thanks for the great video.
Lmao you thought it was just for looks 😂
Mind blown. I thought the multi scale was just for aesthetics but it makes logical sense. You can immediately hear the weight and tone of the low B which means there's less to do EQ wise. I was always disappointed with 5 string bass reviews because they hardly ever play the low B. I will be trying a few before making a purchase. Thanks for this.
The other benefit is the higher strings are warmer without being shrill. It's almost as if each string has a separate EQ, very striking to hear in person.
The pickups are also further from the bridge on the lower strings which probably gives it more of that bass you’re hearing. I usually have a slight neck pickup bias with pickups in a jazz bass configuration, so having that essentially baked in is awesome for me.
yeah, its mostly aesthetics for 'guitars' but its got a very practical purpose for 'basses'
I'm a lefty myself and I've wanted a multiscale bass for the last few years. I finally pulled the trigger on getting a custom made one from a local luthier. This comparison video proves I made the correct choice. The difference is night and day. I will probably turn my other 5 string into a High C strung bass.
Dingwall have most of their model for lefty :) (even the Combustion series)
doing the high c 5 string is so much fun i used to play in drop b with a 5 it was kind of the best of both worlds having the low notes but still having a xtra high string
B
F#
B
E
A
The pickup positions are different too, which definitely has an impact.
Exactly! changing pickups positions can change the overall Bass tone,dynamics and modulation. this can "bring back to life" a muddy B string.
@@Malandro99modulation?
@@codyhansonbass its a bit harder to explain but think about it like a wah pedal fixed at some point of the expression pedal. that happen when you change pickup position or make weird coil mixes.
affecting the pressence of other strings. sometimes can "mute" or alter the ring of notes, giving a character that can be mid rangy, treble, deep or even "gutural" like those talk effect pedals
adding a bit of Drive and then some EQ can reinforce and exalt that given character.
What a great video. So well done. If I hadn't already gone multi-scale, this video would have pushed me there.
I've owned tons of different 5 string makes and I was never truly happy with the B string. I had one Modulus that came the closest to being okay. The day that my first Dingwall arrived was a revelation. I don't even use the B string on my other 5's now. It's just too disappointing. It's not just the open B, but all the way up to about the 7th fret is so great sounding. The E string is also much better than any bass I've owned. Once I yanked the Tone Capsule out, I was even happier.
🤯 Uhhh wow. I’ve always struggled with my Fender Jazz V because the D-B notes always felt like the sound just “fell away” due to low tension. This is a game changer. Now I am on a mission for a multi scale. Thank you so much for the review and time to educate us!
Great video. I've never been too interested in multi scale, and I stand by that, but if I ever get a 5 string it will definitely be multi scale for that bottom clarity.
Just got my first MS few months ago. Recorded and gigged the hell out of it. Metal, pop, HipHop… the later two FoH guys were like: “eww, dude… that’s a metal thing only…”
After the gigs they loved it so much. Same goes for the recording.
Btw…it’s a Dingwall NG3 In gold.
Never go back, unless it’s like a blues gig or something…
Excellent demo. I'm actually really shocked how different they sound.
I wonder if it's finger placement that's making a difference, cause on the short scale his fingers are closer to the bridge which would make it sound brighter
@@Durkhead that, and the fact that the pickups on a multiscale aren't as slanted as they should be (it's like if on a parallel-fret bass the bass side of the pickups was closer to the fretboard, like a telecaster bridge pickup). Also, aside from the slant, bridge pickup on a multiscale seems to be relatively closer to the fretboard
no, the fanned frets really do make that big of a difference. Once you play one in person you'll understand. @@Durkhead
@57precision fan frets make a bass sound deeper with less high end?
@@Durkhead the best way I can describe it is each string has an identical timbre as compared to a traditional bass. The B has defined overtones while the G is warmer and not shrill. The E also sounds phenomenal on these basses as it has more overtones than what we are used to hearing.
I have a Dingwall Combustion 5/3 that I absolutely love. One thing I've never seen addressed in multi scale review videos is right hand technique. When you play in one spot on the low B and move toward the G string without moving you hand toward the neck, you end up playing much closer to the bridge on the G string, giving it a thinner tonality. Fortunately for me, I use floating thumb technique, so I'm able to move my right hand toward the neck easily as I move to the higher pitched strings. I try to follow the angle of the pickups so I keep some evenness in my plucking hand.
Great comparison video.
I would never imagine the difference was so clear!
I always thought the lower strings on a multiscale bass would sound more bassy and clearer vs a normal bass. Thank you for your video. Multiscale 5 string on my wishlist.
Great demonstration bro!
I've had a few Dingwalls, my first MS was an EHB which I still play all the time, and I had the LTD1004ms and a kiesel 35-33ms. The 37" B is so far ahead for clarity than a 35" and I love it for clean tones. With some overdrive or fuzz I can pretty well replicate tones regardless of the bass in my hands. I do still prefer playing the EHB or even Kiesels MS for speed and comfort. My main fiver is actually a parallel fret 35" with an amazing B with all the bell like tone. I completely agree with you as far as playing 37"Ms in a live setting, they just carve out their place and present better in the mix.
crazy how much of a sound difference they actually have, I think Multiscale is something I will have to go with next.
Thanks so much for taking the time to do such a comprehensive vid on these basses 👍
Multiscale: Sold! I really do like "hear" the tension and the harmonics of the B string.
Love the sound of the multiscale. Its almost like the strings are tonal more together.
Thanks to your comparisons, I can hear clearly the fanned bass sound much better
Great review! The difference is night and day. Unbelievable!
Excellent comparison between the two models. Well done!
I’ve got a black Dimension HP on order and cannot wait to get it! Spector has ruled since the early ‘80’s!
This is a great video. This exactly the kind of comparison I was looking for. I had incorrectly equated multi scale with modern metal. You did an great job demonstrating the instruments in other styles.
It would take some serious heavy duty machinery to prise my Dingwall from my cold dead fingers.
Love the transitions on the video man!
The tonal differences between the two is utterly astonishing!!
I’ve been playing a multi scale bass regularly for about a year. I love the even response across all strings and registers. I especially love what it does for the clarity of the low-B. To me, multi scale makes cleaner and smoother overall tone great for more modern styles.
Best comparison video I've seen in a while.. and educational too.
man that multiscale Spector is killer ! sounds amazing !!
I love the multiscale I own an Ibanez BTB 806 MS getting used to the angled frets was not difficult at all. I do have a suggestion I have challenged myself to learn to play with tight latex gloves and my string's new sound lasts forever. Simply because the oils from my hands do not get on the strings therefore keeps them fresh you should try it
Wow what a detailed comparison, i love the multiscale and for me look also better than standard 34 scale
That "standard" Spector is 35"
I’ve tried a couple but they’re few and far between at my local shops. They feel great though, and remind me of those “balanced tension” string sets like D’Addario makes. The even response is amazing. I wish companies would be less afraid to make multi scale five strings in the $400-$800 range and make them popular enough to dedicated support from string manufacturers.
this is perfect comparison. thank you.
Mutliscale is the CLEAR winner in tone! Love to see another company other than Dingwall hit the 37" scale for the low B
Upgrading from an ibanez sr506 (standard scale) to an ibanez btb806ms (multiscale 37” low end) next week. Super hyped to hear/feel the difference after watching this video.
Nice comparison. I can really hear the difference.
I play a multiscale 6 string tunes F#, B, E, A, D, G, and I love it. Honestly feels weird playing regular scale basses now, and even with a more as low as F# I still get clarity. For low tunings, multiscale is the way
amazing comparison, did not think it would make such a massive difference
I have a Court A5 Beyond multiscale. I love it, sounds and feels great.
I purchased my Spector Dimension 5 in March of 23. I've been playing 4-string standard for 30+ years and I wanted a 5 to get those low notes. I played several brands before deciding on the Spector. It just felt good, sounds great, and multiscale provides more clarity. A multiscale is probably not for everyone as the instrument needs to fit comfortably. Everything he says in this video, both pros and cons I absolutely agree with after playing mine for several months. One thing he did not mention is that my bass stays in tune much better than a standard. I sure it has everything to do with the string tension. I hit my strings hard, but it stays in tune. I have a little bit smaller hands than average and the multiscale ergonomics work very well for me. It took me about 10 minutes to get used to the angled frets. If you're thinking about a multiscale, find a couple to play before you purchase.
They are both gorgeous basses and they both sound awesome 🤘🏼🤘🏼
Kudos to you for this Comparison. I have Searched many times for fan fretted bass vs normal bass. But Couldn't find a proper one. Thanks
Very good comparison! I think, they both have great B-strings and this means something.
Multi scale is way crispier! Thank you for the amazing demonstration!
That was great dude!
Such an educational video! great job guys!
the multiscale really amazing. you can hear that tone really smoother than the regular scale and the sustain more consisten.
I have a Spector Dimension 5 and a Tobias 5 string 34" scale. We tune a half step down and the B string starts to get floppy on the Tobias. The multiscale Spector with Fishman pickups sounds amazing. It doesn't take long to get used to a multiscale and I can't recommend the Spector enough, especially with the Fishman's. I don't think I could choose just one bass between the two. Both are awesome!
Thanks for the deep dive brother 😎
Nick! This is the best color finish for these basses
The purple is cool and phonky but I LOVE that silver color
@BoomstickNick88 definitely not a bad color option
Skibidi
I own two five-string-basses. the first one was a cheap standard scale model. the multi-scale bass cost 5 times as much - so that's gonna factor into my perception of my instruments. nonetheless: the ergonomics and acoustic properties of the multi-scale 5-string are a joy to have at your disposal. 100% satisfied with making that purchase.
Love my ibanez btb805ms got it a couple months back and its my go to every time i want to play
This really seals the deal for me. I'm getting one of these before the end of the year if they manage to show up in Europe. That Spector growl is even growlier with multiscale 🤤
Regarding strings I find that stainless steel has the most options. DR XL-scale, for example, are 40" long.
Stringjoy makes custom gauge sets for bass and guitar, and I like how the basses morphed into each other.
I didn't expect itto make such a big difference. Tjhnks for the education.
I looked at the Spector multi-scale for months. I loved the look and all the reviews seemed spot on to what I was looking for. One thing that always got me, whether it was a jazz V, stingray 5, Ibanez 5.. just about any 5 string I have tried... the B just never sounded clear. So to me, unless I was at the 5th fret or up, the B just didn't work. A buddy sold me a Dingwall ABZ 5. I love the B string now, from open string all the way up. Now I just have to work on getting used to the fanned frets.
Right off the bat in that intro, my first thought was “damn, that low B on the multi-scale sounds fantastic”
Thank you for the review. Sometimes fanned fret is better. Sometimes normal frets. It depends on the Situation. Thank you ! Best
Great comparison video!
Love the dimension basses. Wish they came with EMGs when i bought mine.
I have an Ibanez SRMS805 that I love and use all the time. I haven't had any trouble finding strings, but it's only a 34-35.5" scale so I guess it's less of an issue. I have never really tried to buy flats or tapes before either, until I got a fretless recently, but it's a standard length 4 string.
The comparison was cool. Sounds so much better to me, I'm not sure I would ever buy a non-multiscale 5 string honestly.
Love the video.
Side note. Longer scale gives you more clarity, a more “piano-like sound”, as mentioned in the video.
If someone likes the floppy, wubby sounds of a bass guitar, short scales(like 30inch) let you get the wubby sounds on your D and G strings.
Wow .. what a difference in the sound!
Wow, I always knew that this made sense on a conceptual level, but hearing the difference on the low b is crazy
Great comparison. I only recently just played my first multi-scale and it's great. Very noticeable sound difference. Sidenote, I'm pretty certain that scale length is measured from the fingerboard side of the nut to the center of the 12th fret and then multiplying that value by 2 and not from nut to bridge.
edit: added the note of multiplying by 2, figured it was obvious...
Then youre certainly wrong
Yes, 12th x 2 == fretboard edge of nut to bridge saddle position. 34 scale measures 17 to 12th fret and same to the nominal bridge location. I've made a few and that's how it's done.
I'm actually looking at a multi scale guitar, so your video popped up on my feed. It was a good watch, I'm glad I did. Thanks 😊
Oh, I'm now going to buy a multi scale. That thing sounded sweet as..
The editing is very funny makes it look it that the bass is transforming lol
The tone is clearer on the multiscale, but the standard is so much more musical. It bubbles and vibrates differently on each string, the multiscale is just a consistent tone, sounds more like a bass synth than a warm bass tone
The B string on my Spector Euro 5LX leaves nothing to be desired IMO but the multi scale in this video was better than the standard. Also an Elixir user here. Love those strings.
Until I saw this video, I didn't realize how much I was missing it. I thought that the multi-scale instrument was clearly different sounding, and your wide range of music styles showed how it can really shine with the right music. In the piece you played starting at about 7:20, I thought that the standard scale instrument actually sounded better in that A/B comparison. I have 2 different standard scale 5 strings, and now I may need to add a multi-scale to the mix.
Next, maybe try out a super long scale? I see some videos of a 39" scale 4 string...
My fulltime basses are a 68 and a 73-telecaster bass. I use Labella 45-105 flats, strung through body. I love the tension and sound of the A string. The open E is sometimes lost in the mix. Never have I played a multi scale. I do like a single pickup passive bass.
Nice! Great demo. this drives home my desire for my next bass to be a multi scale bass.
Didn't expect to hear Pagans Mind this morning. Nice!
The difference is stark and immediately apparent. If you have any aspirations of a solid B string, then you need the longest scale length you can possibly muster. The fundamentals on the B and E strings are so much stronger, and the harmonic balance is so much better on the multi-scale bass, that it makes you wonder why any of us are still playing conventional instruments. Now, if only they didn't look so weird!
Aside from audible, yet not shocking differences in tone and clarity - additional tension on the lower string slightly increases the relief on the bass side of the neck and encourages droptuning. Can affect the ease of playing chords in both directions, depending on chord shape and neck region. Still, should be a new standard for basses
Love the video. I have a multiscale 9 string guitar; Legator ninja. It took me no time to get used to the feel of the frets and the tension on each string is awesome. My 8 string isn't a multiscale and the low string gets muddy, however my 9 string doesn't get that way because of the multiscale scale
I own a multi scale, gotta agree. Notes are definitely clear and full of definition when playing. Ever since I own a headless multi scale bass. I refuse to go back to straight scale basses (and guitars too)
Great video, and thanks for the comparison! I have a 5-string Ibanez EDB-605 but i've wanted a multiscale for a while. I built my own, and it sounds really great. For strings, it's hard finding the right set. I currently have D'Addario ETB92-5 5-String Tapewound Long Scale, which works pretty well. They should last forever; we'll see. Only down side is that the tension is too much for one of the strings (i can't remember which), so i have to drop-tune it, which isn't so bad, but switching between the two tunings melts my brain for a bit. I also have Rotosound Tru Bass 88 Nylon Tapewounds for 6 string on my Ibanez, and they're pretty good. I think I may have gotten Magma strings (but i forget) at one point, and they lasted me or 20 years, but I'm also not playing every day for as long as you probably are. Good luck finding a great pair of strings for this, and let us know if you get some that you'd recommend. Cheers!
I had a Dingwall which was awesome. Now I'm on a quite rare Fender Aerodyne which I really like. I didn't have any issues with the fanned frets. Generally it was easier for me to play. Miss that Dingwall...
Ok, I am a guitarist, not a bassist. But this is by far, the best video, to explain the ACTUAL purpose of multi scale.
I've got a 35" Schecter Stiletto and also a 34" - 36" Schecter Stiletto. Tonal wise, they sound identical, but the 36" low B does, in fact, sound tighter and fuller than the 35" B. However, this video also shows a tonality change that I don't have on my Schecters. The 35" model's tone overall just sounds more "burpy" and the multi-scale sounds more well-rounded, but clear. I think there's more going on than just scale length in this vid, but I'm not sure what other than perhaps strings or maybe the EQ knobs got bumped on one of them...?
Edit: I bet it's the pickup location relative to the string. The 35" pickups are just overall closer to the bridge than the multi-scale. On the 35", you can see there's about an inch or an inch and a half from the bridge contact point to the beginning of the pickup on all 5 strings. On the multi-scale, there looks to be a solid 2 or even 3 inches between the bridge contact point and the bridge pickup.
I personally think that most of the tonal difference between the multiscale and the regular version is due to Josh hitting the strings further away from the bridge compared to where he hits the string on the regular version since a bigger part of the string is in the back while the pickups stay in the same position relative to the neck.
The difference, at least what I could hear, wasn't all that pronounced on the more gentle playing that Nick did...so while I think that there probably is a difference I really think that the benefit of an even string tension across all strings is in my opinion the main reason to buy a multiscale bass. But as Nick mentioned, buying or rather finding strings that actually are long enough, limits your choices to what brands you can use...also they tend to be more expensive than regular strings. So you have higher regular expenses and you have to (maybe) play a brand of strings that you don't want to use.
But I really like the look of theses basses, so they got that going for them.
Thanks for the comparison. When I first saw these guitars, I thought it was just for ergonomics, but I was completely wrong. I could be missing something, but this tells me fanned/multiscale guitars/basses are the future without a doubt. The tone is so significantly better it's amazing it took so long for them to start getting popular.
Wow, huge difference!
I think they both sound great. Multiscale sounds tighter with more progressive playing.
Great comparison. You can obviously hear string change on the fanned fret bass far better. Same problem as with the dingwalls.. Both of them sound nice though.
The multiscale's bridge pickup is further away from the bridge/higher up the scale than the standard bass, resulting in a more bottom heavy, scooped midrange, combined with higher tension just results in a more tight low end.
I purchased the Dimension 5 String 10 months ago, and although the Fishman electonics is good, it has nothing on my regular 5 String Spector Euro with the tone pump. I find that I have to turn up my amp to almost twice the volume when using the Dimension to reach the same sound level as my Euro. In my world, good is the enemy of great! So I am in the process of changing out the pickups for some EMG’s. For the first 3 or 4 months when playing the Dimension, the low B,C, and D notes would really surprise me with their clarity and character. Unfortunately, I am getting used to it. Now when I play my Euro 5 string and hitting those same low notes, it almost feels like the notes are not in tune. When the day comes that I have Spector build me an instrument, I will request that it be a multi-scale. Oh, by the way, the quality of the Dimension instrument, is excellent. The neck is also thinner than my Euro. One small caveat, the tuning pegs could of been better. They feel really cheap. Perhaps I should make a TH-cam video.
Pretty much completely agree. Worst apart about fanned fret life is having to pay £44 for a set of strings! I also agree about the frets up high being more difficult but I also don't spend much time up there.
For B I feel like a 35 inch does the trick, comparing this to a 34 inch would have been night and day (I know Spector don't do many 34 inch basses so this comparison if fair enough). When going to A and below though, 37 is the absolute way!
Good to see Nick back too xxx
The standard scale is muddy enough that a few times it was hard for me to pick out the note. The multi-scale was clear every time. It was easier to hear the fundamental. The difference isn’t huge, but enough that it would noticeably affect a recording.
To me, the difference is ASTRONOMICAL.
Also the strings are different. The difference is INSANE wow!
I like these flat-wounds best, they sound great on my both of my fretless 5 Stringers. Ernie Ball 2816 Regular Slinky Flatwound Electric Bass Guitar Strings - .045-.130 5-string
Thanks so much for the video review.
Thanks for this video. It is exactly what I experienced! The MS have superior clarity and tone. Please share more info about MS strings and how to get them. Thanks again.
that jam around 10 min sounds like " like a tattoo - sade " love that vibe