String lenght, volume and playability

[Ken Smith]

5s are usually with a low B for orchestra. For jazz with high C, not so common as most use a 4 string.

For length, 104 is just under 41", the 'minimum' for most players. 103cm is just over 40.5" and the length of many 3/4 and 4/4 Pollmann Basses. I am currently using a 4/4 Pollmann with a 103 and find it comfy. I also play basses the day before or after at almost 106.7 or 42" so I use basses currently from 40.5 - 42" with very little problem.

What you need to do is have a good set-up. Flatter fingerboard than cambered for less tension. To me, the set-up is more important than the length. Length I can get used to but camber with more then 1.5-2mm overall in the center is way too much pressure for my hands. My basses are about .5mm cambered for the first octave.

I was once playing a bass for a concert with a 41.45" and a few days before bought a bass with 44 1/4" and played the concert with that. No problem! Just adjust to play in tune.