The 5/8 size bass is becoming quite popular as this slightly smaller version of the “full size” (3/4) bass is comfortable to use and a little easier to handle especially for those of us of smaller stature. They also can be wonderful sounding basses with a lighter tonal palette than a very large bass.  

First a bit about bass ergonomics and nomenclature in general is due here. Ironically 3/4 quarter size basses are the standard full size bass and 4/4 basses are quite rare and difficult to play. Unfortunately there is no hard and fast definition of 3/4 size and there is a lot of variation especially in the actual amount of airspace inside the bass due to length, width and depth of the pattern used. In general the “average” size of a 3/4 bass does have a few parameters. The vibrating string length is usually within a quarter  inch either direction of 41- 1/2” and the body length tends to be about 43 -1/2” long with corresponding average bout widths and rib depths. 

The specs for Shen’s 5/8 size basses across the line are a string length of 39-3/4”, and a body length of 42- 1/2” with correspondingly scaled down widths of the top, back and rib widths. 

All other specifications are the same as the other 88 models in their line. 

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