Used Thumb BO 4 vs. Thumb BO BN 5?

[Isa]

I've really been torn between the Corvette STD and the Thumb, mainly because of price and that there have been no Thumbs around here for me to play, much less even see or hold. I've played the Corvette and love it; so I'm making the jump in faith that I would enjoy the Thumb at least as much as I enjoy the STD.

I've started at looking to purchase a used Thumb online (which I can do for roughly the same price as a new STD); is it reasonable to purchase a Thumb without having played one, on the basses of my STD playing experience, and the fact that I love the sound of a Thumb (at least from the many recordings that I've heard)?

Also, I'm back to wondering if I should just get a used Thumb BO 4 (which is just under my price cap), or if it is worth going just a little over my price cap to get a used Thumb BO BN 5 string?

How much different is it to play BO BN 5 compared to a BO 4 (as far as playability, reach (nut width of the BN) and string spacing)? I have very thick fingers (left hand ringfinger ring size is 14), so the 20 mm string spacing of the BN is very appealing.

I really want to get the Bass that I can keep for as long as I am able to play. But I also want to make sure that the bass I choose is also a smart choice for a novice to start out with: I'm having such a great time playing, I don't want to get discouraged, or have a set back from making a realy poor choice.

I really need the voices of experiece here.

 

[SurrenderMonkey]

Personnaly I would think starting with a Thumb 5, BO BN, would be a bold move. They sound and play nothing like a Corvette. Thumbs are, ...peculiar

Try before you buy, if you can find a shop with a demo.

 

[EVOLVEBASS]

I don't think anyone can tell you whether it's better to get a 4-string or a 5-string, that is completely personal preference (especially when the BN is available). But I think it's reasonable to consider the Corvette Standard (bubinga) to be somewhat similar to a Thumb BO. If you like one, you'll likely feel comfortable with the other. It may come down what investment you want to make and/or if you're willing to buy used. Certainly the Thumb is a more "pro level" bass, but it's not all together a different beast either...

 

[EVOLVEBASS]

SurrenderMonkey makes a good point about the BN 5-string. Part of my thinking behind my opinion is that both basses have similar necks - obviously the BN would be different...