Sire U5 Revisited - Still The Best Well-Rounded Short Scale Bass? - LowEndLobster Fresh Look

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Sire U5 Review: • Sire U5 Short Scale Re...
Hey Everyone! Today we're revisiting one of my favorite short scales from Sire, the U5! This capable little bass provides a great set of tones while also providing the player with a familiar playing experience in a short scale package. It's been over two years since I reviewed this bass originally. How does it stack up? Let's find out!
This bass and all my other basses with rounds are strung with SIT Foundation Nickel Plated Stainless Steel 45-105(125) unless otherwise noted. Check them out at sitstrings.com/
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[@marlen2801]

After your first review,.four student's buy this model. And yes, your rating is the best you can find anywhere...it is five of five bass. Amazing quality for this price range. Thanks lobster for your great and honesty review's.🙏🤗

[@kaleem_k]

I'm really happy with my Sire U5. It's really nice to be able to put 34" scale strings through the body on the U5 so I don't have to buy a specific short-scale set.

[@kalvino67]

Newbie query: How is that possible? Aren't the strings too long?

[@kaleem_k]

@@kalvino67 it has the option to string through the body, which eats up the extra length!

[@kalvino67]

Thanks. I’ll try this on my next restring! 👍🏽

[@Sumbibebe]

I got mine after your first video and I still love it! Thanks Lobster👍🏾

[@flynbil]

I love mine. I waited such a long time because they weren't in stock. Once I got it I had to raise the back pickup a touch, otherwise it is a little weak. Glad you brought that up.

[@McLeod220]

I bought a Sire U5 in 2023 thanks to your review. It is soft to play as a feather. Very defined sound, doesn’t require excessive strength. As I suffer tendinitis, this bass is a gift from the heaven.

[@daviddesmond2143]

Thanks for this newer video on the U5. I am in my early 70's and have played bass guitar ever since I bought a 62 jazz bass and bassman amp in 1964. As an old geezer, I currently play Stingray 5's and they are now a bit heavy. I had a Sire V7 5 a few years ago and it was an excellent bass but weighed over 11 lbs and had too many damn knobs so I sold it-I much preferred the 5 way switch on the Stingrays where I could quickly and predictably change tones instead of fiddling with knobs which is unprofessional at gigs. I saw your first video on the Sire U5 and ordered one and waited months way past when they were supposed to be in stock but never came in. The Sire U5 is backordered NOW in all colors and not available to buy. I don't know how it would be going from a powerful active 5 Stingray HH to a short scale passive bass but I sure would like to shave a couple of pounds off my shoulder and I think this is a pretty cool little bass. Shaving a contour on the body where my right arm would rest on the body is a no brainer as well as lightweight tuners. I have also heard that the figured top on the natural and sunburst finish is paper thin. Thanks, Lobster.

[@ratboy717]

Such a cool bass, thanks for revisiting it. Man it needs some more colour options though!

[@LowEndLobster]

Agreed!

[@ronbzoom8531]

Sire U5 vs G&L Tribute Fallout vs Squier Paranormal Rascal - CAGE MATCH!!! Three go in, one comes out victorious!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

That's an interesting idea!

[@azna179]

Add the sterling short scale too

[@coltonwitte7081]

Do you intend to do this matchup?

[@davelock3166]

I have one - and I totally agree that the rounded edge. My only gripe! Not bothered with the neck dive though because you don't notice it when playing. A quality instrument.

[@mannishboy1]

You sold me on both the Squier Rascal HH, in pink, and the Sire U5 (I should get it on 5/20/24). Thanks for your informative and entertaining reviews! Claw On, Brother Lobster!!! 🦞

[@jonmatthews4254]

7:56 completely agree, a comfort cut for the wrist would be great.

[@ascoyne]

Bought one on the strength of your review lobster, thanks. I no longer have beard envy!

[@thebassplayification]

Pro tip guys; short scales are the ducks nuts for pit work. Most musicals, you're rarely going above 12th fret and can usually get away with a 4 string. The shorter scale is easier on your hands, and lighter on your shoulder for those longer shows Also no one can judge you for playing a baby bass in the dark

[@LowEndLobster]

I brought a short scale with me on vacation XD.

[@element-dh9dx]

Yes, and plus it's a bass. People judge you for playing a small bass ?. Omg and this is why I'm non pro.

[@spacedaddy5517]

I go above the 12th fret for most musicals, I am savage.

[@erstwhilerambler]

I’m glad to have picked up the phrase “the duck’s nuts.”

[@dougrobinson1171]

L O B T E R

[@jugglerj0e]

LobSter (you seem to have forgotten the "s"?)

[@LowEndLobster]

D U G

[@dougrobinson1171]

@@LowEndLobster fun fact: I actually spell it this way sometimes because kurt cobain would spell his first name differently sometimes.

[@Blakeadam52]

@@jugglerj0eit a joke

[@Blakelysworld358]

I put flat wound on mine (still through the body) and Lobster is 100% right just a thrill to play. So many satisfying tones.

[@svenleeuwen]

Which flats? La Bella seems popular for the U5.

[@JohnFHendry]

Yea which ones? ;-) The La Bella Mustang flat wound through the body length (La Bella 760F-MUS Deep Talkin' Bass Stainless Steel Flat wound Scale Bass Guitar Strings - .043-.104 Light Short Scale Through Body) were too long as U5 body insert string end barrel stops go in deeper than the Fender Mustang almost to the surface and La Bella 760FL-S Bass Deep Talkn Flatwnd Short Scale 43-104 Lt strings are not made for through body so had to run them straight through on top like the U5 came stock. Really like the La Bella flats best but bummed I couldn't run them through the body. U5 needs it's own through string length to use La Bella's flats it seems.

[@joermnyc]

I have a sunburst from the 2nd Generation, with lightweight tuners it’s the perfect bass for me. (I did switch the tuners to the more modern triangular shape knobs as well. I felt that fit the style better.)

[@PhillipAlcock]

Which tuners dis you fit?

[@joermnyc]

@@PhillipAlcock hipshot imports, you’ll need their 1/2” inch plus a set of bushings as the stock tuners are slightly larger than 1/2” inch.

[@andreikobylinsky]

I also buy this U5 after yours review! - I must say, that this bass is outstanding... as long as your reviews! Thank you!

[@TheDarkKnight73]

Got a while back in the summer and love it. One of the best sire basses

[@christian_u5]

I changed the pickups to stand Dimarzio Pickups and no diference here. It's a bass talking by your self. Very good.

[@sylvaingagnon3211]

Wow, it’s one of the most balanced sounding bass I heard on this channel.

[@Bi_scotti_5]

I would love to hear how this sounds with the LaBella 760F-MUS flatwounds

[@jjerkamillo]

Been on the hunt for a smaller/shortscale bass for my wife and daughters to jam on, but everything else out there seems kinda half baked, like they have compromises here and there. As a Jazz bass player myself this seems like a perfect fit for them!

[@badmonks]

Another great review, thank you. Never thought owing a Sire. Trying to decide if I'll be owing th is U5 or a Squier Paranormal Rascal bass. Tough decision since both got 5 lobster claws. It's a gift from me to me for getting a cardiac cath.

[@paulroundandroundandround]

I really like mine! Your original review convinced me to buy one and I'm glad I did. It's lovely to play! The Gotoh 528 tuner upgrade makes it so much better though as neckdive is definitely a thing without it

[@swperry04039]

Sounds killer with Ernie Ball Cobalt Slinky Flats! Amazing instrument!

[@fredparker3384]

What length??

[@nder]

U5 vs. Squier Rascal head-to-head when? Make them fight for our love!

[@bucketdrool]

I just ordered mine from Sire. Free shipping. Had the blonde and the surf green in stock. Seems to be sold out in most other places I looked. Thanks Lobster!

[@Frank-in-NY]

Hey Lobster...Excellent follow up review. I'm looking to upgrade from my Ibanez TMB30 and the Sire U5 and the Squier Rascal are both contenders. Quick question; You mentioned an upgrade to lightweight Gotoh GB528 Tuners. The Tuners appear to have only two mounting holes. Why not the the Gotoh GB640 with four mounting holes? Enjoy your reviews, all good info.

[@ka-bar5060]

I just wished it also had a roasted neck, but a great short scale.

[@DeanBolz]

I installed the GB528 Gotohs. Nice. Took some weight off it. Next I'd like change only the bridge saddles with brass

[@bucketdrool]

The gotohs are 2 screw vs the 4 screw originals. Do the gotohs show the 2 empty screw holes?

[@LowEndLobster]

Yes the holes are visible

[@123pwop]

Would just love a video of you playing the same riffs your playing, but much slower, for a newbie like me. Great runs ! Thanks, Philip.

[@denz-view]

Will you be testing the new Sire U7 model soon? I'd like to know how it feels and sounds.

[@kalvino67]

Would love to see a review of the new Sire U7 (long scale version of the U5) when you get your hands on one.

[@r.l.rachel740]

Very, very nice cost effective short scale bass. If money is not an issue, check out the Sandberg Florence Short Scale Bass. Lobster, Thx for a great review.

[@TenFalconsMusic]

It looks like a copy of an Aerodyne Jazz Bass, apart from it being a short scale, the Gumby shaped head stock, truss adjustment and string through. I wonder if it would take a full scale neck?

[@JohnFHendry]

La Bella please make a through body flat wound string that fits the Sire U5 properly !!!!

[@rickhill6277]

Great Review and Demo of the U5! Could you tell me, after replacing the Bridge with the Gotoh, are the original holes covered by the New Bridge? Thank you and please keep up the Good Work! Love your Channel and Content. Cheers from Salem, Ohio US!!!

[@brunocyclist]

Cool looking and sounding instrument! Maybe one day I might switch my long scale fretless jazz for one of these fretless. I know it's like cursing in church on this channel, but I REALLY do love my Gretsch G2220 Junior Jet II as well. I bought it in the midst of humbuckergate, knowing it had two single coil pick-ups and it is a great instrument. Plenty flexible tones, beautifully made, plays like a dream and has a great voice. Monster tone with La Bella DTF's... Short scales are awesome!

[@destianpatrianagara1119]

I feel like a baby seeing his daddy without a beard for the first time

[@PaulHarker1958]

I don't know why I'm watching this. I bought my U5 as my 2st bass after the first review and am very happy.

[@36995652]

Saludos, crustáceo!

[@PhillipAlcock]

I’ve had a U5 ever since your first review and love it. I got the Tobacco Sunburst version - never really liked the blue one. The only thing I didn’t like were the strings it came with. I put LaBella flats on - top loaded. I’m not young or small, in fact just the opposite on both counts. I wish people wouldn’t say shorty scale basses are just for the young and small - they are ideal, but I love the compact size. I do play guitar as well so I suppose the size is part of the attraction. But no one would know from the sound it makes…

[@BlazeOnMoto]

Hi Lobster! Great job! Thanks for all. How tou finding this U5 bass compared to fender jazz junior collection?

[@darklink2000]

Hey Lobster, would it be possible to review the Shecter banshee bass?

[@GlenMoyer]

Love this bass! Bought a tobacco burst after your first video but circumstances forced me to sell it a few months later. Watching this review reminded me how I missed it so just got another, again in tobacco burst. I want to change hardware to black. Besides the GoToh GB528s, are there any other drop in replacements?

[@zyxwfish]

You should do a review on the SWB-1 Scott Whitley Signature bass. Now that is a nice short scale bass! That sire sounds very good yeah buddy!

[@truehexer]

Lobster, please include in your reviews sometimes playing with a pick :)

[@jon8021]

I’ve know I’ll get one because I like high quality short scales, but I only wish Sire had a more vintage-y looking version.

[@thierry18]

The sunburst and natural version both look more vintage, and you could always relic it if you wanted to or add an aged pickguard/hardware.

[@ricardobermudez6229]

Nice video. Thanks for sharing

[@fs3684]

Hi Lobster ! Could you review the CHOWNY SWB 1 ? It would be interesting to compare with the U5 and the Rascal (although the price is *2).

[@evaskoklamut9479]

This review comes at a perfect time, as I'm currently deciding on which short scale to buy 😊 Strictly ergonomics and balance-wise, which would you say is better in your experience: the sire u5, sterling MM short scale or the jet junior II? I ordered a mustang PJ, but I'm returning it because of the terrible neck dive...a shame, because I really like it otherwise.

[@jasondorsey7110]

I have 3 pj's and none of them dive...do you use a decent strap?

[@TenFalconsMusic]

If you really like that Mustang (they are really nice) slap a roasted maple neck on it and problem solved.

[@evaskoklamut9479]

​@@jasondorsey7110 I used a fairly wide leather strap and it still dove. Bizzarely, it's also quite heavy for a SS (8.8 Ibs) and most of the weight seems fo be concentrated on the neck, making it uncomfortable on the shoulder.

[@evaskoklamut9479]

​@@TenFalconsMusic I feel like that would be too big of an additional expense to be worth it to me. I'd rather just buy a more comfortable bass to begin with.

[@Heykiran90]

I have this Sire U5, but the ergonomics are not great for me. I’m petite and find it awkward to hold bc of the shape of the bottom and the neck dive is pretty significant for me. It looks and sounds so amazing tho! I do love it. If you stand with it, it’s fine. But sitting for longer than 20mins is awkward. Everyone’s body is different 💁‍♀️I wanted to try the mustang, bummer to hear about your experience!

[@kevinturvey8213]

i'm lucky to have a rascal and a u5 - overall i prefer the u5 - but that said, the u5 doesn't feel as well made as my sire p5r - which is my number 1 bass. what i'd really love is a short scale p5R!

[@Chris.Wiley.]

Hey Lobster - where do you source your Gotoh GB528 tuners? Reverb & eBay have a few sellers, but none of the major outlets like Sweetwater or Musicians Friend carry them.

[@superduperj1202]

Thank you Lobster!

[@piotrfronc9773]

A mod with SD QP PJ set and tapewounds would be nice. Just sayin'

[@presentrlb]

Very cool, tempted to try one of these. A superficial turn off for me is painted headstocks.

[@DeanBolz]

Do the gotoh bushings fit without making the hole bigger?

[@LowEndLobster]

Yes

[@stevepethel6843]

Sounds great good playing Too

[@willistaylor4077]

Hi Lob, Any chance of reviewing any of the higher-end Mustang Basses, Such as Vintera, JMJ and/or American Performer ?

[@bertilbroddeus8458]

Hello Lobster 😀 The best bass test man out there !!! Sire V10dx 5str. ??????? You know why !( Sire has listened to you and I am so curios how it went ????) I have the V10 5str.and it’s the best bass I ever had but I think V10 dx is better but I’m waiting to buy untill you have test it ! Thank you and God Bless Bertil from Sweden

[@aallen7339]

Would love for you to review the Fender player Mustang pj bass short scale?

[@Rokas108]

Hey there, I Really like U5 from what you shown in your videos and how versatile it is, but I am a bit in a conundrum here, maybe you can help? I am looking for my first bass and I can't decided between the Sire U5 or Squire vintage P-bass 40 anniversary. I am mainly looking for a P bass with some versatility hence U5 got my eye, I also like its size but I am worried a bit if a short scale is good for a beginner. I do also worry a bit that the loser strings of a short scale might mess my learning, since I do like to dig in to the strings. I am also interested if Sire U5 has a good P-Bass sound overall. Kind Regards Rokas

[@Waggel86]

There's nothing wrong with a short scale. It produces less higher harmonics compared to a full scale bass, so it sounds a tad more thumpy. If you want crystal clear highs a full scale is probably best. String tension is easily solved with some thicker strings. Note that because of the higher tension on bass vs a guitar, the risk of stress induced injury is higher. It's better to play light with extra volume on the (pre)amp. Always play with amplification. Solid body basses tend to be quiet acoustically. You'll compensate by playing harder which leads to injuries. As a guitar player turned bassist I found the transition from 25,5" to 34" to not be that bad. Yes, there is some stretching but it isn't nearly as bad as I feared. So if that's something keeping you from full scales, you might want reconsider. It will certainly give you more models to choose from. As for P vs PJ. Personally I run my PJ either P solo'ed or both on full. My J is rather subtle so messing with half or three quarter volumes isn't worth it , YMMV though.

[@Rokas108]

@@Waggel86 Thanks for your reply, I am not only interested in short scales but U5 did cough my eye a lot, the only issue is there is none of them close to me for trying out in person or any Sires at all. I guess I just wanted to find out should I go for a Full length Squier P or this short scale since the squier was one I could try and also like somewhat. But I just keep hearing from some people that squier is trash and that Sire is really good for the money. Plus lobster has now two videos of this bass parsing it. So I just wanted to see what he thinks would be a good choice. But thank you for your advice, I am personally leaning twords the Full length squire. Sire U5 atleast in this video kinda had a metal buzzy sound to it, but maybe its because its new strings ?

[@TenFalconsMusic]

If you're a normal sized adult, I would go with a full 34" scale bass. That being said, I would go to your nearest guitar shop and try both short & long scale. That's assuming they have a short scale. For me, it's definitely 34" but my 10 year old daughter prefers short scale (with light gauge strings for better string tension).

[@barackmycat9448]

That has been on my list.

[@TheBassfresh]

I tried an early one and it arrived with a sloppy neck/ body joint and just felt cheap all over so I sent it back. Might have to try another. However, I still have a squier jaguar VM ss bass.

[@sunn_bass]

Two great short scale basses and definitely different target markets. The Rascal is not trying to be small, and those big pickups on a smaller body would look out of place.

[@iamgribs]

Very nice sound.

[@heftyjo2893]

I bought a cheap short scale Mitchell bass from Guitar Center during the Black Friday sale. It's probably sacrilege to say, but I'm actually finding myself playing this little short scale bass more than my standard length basses. It's just so much more comfortable to play and I don't really find myself noticing much difference in the tone. I have a ten inch handspan so it's not like the size of a larger guitar is necessarily a problem but when I can cover 6 frets with a little microshift it makes playing a breeze.

[@user-xx6bl8gv1c]

Which one is the better? Fender mustang , or the sire u5?

[@Prepman51]

Great Job Lob. Can you provide the overall length? Also what is the string spacing at the bridge and speaking area. I’m used to 18mm or 17.5mm. thanks in advance. Another also: How do you know if these are V2 ? Some dealers have older stock.

[@LowEndLobster]

Overall length I can't get since I'm on vacation, BUT I can tell you spacing at the bridge is 19mm as most fender style 4 strings are. There's really only the V2 and the 'current' ones with some minor upgrades (more rolled edges). The green one also no longer has binding on the new model, but the burst and natural ones do.

[@Prepman51]

From Sire: Overall length is 1076.59mm or 42-3/8” approximately. The string spacing is 20mm. Only 2nd Generation models are being shipped and will start with 2N serial number.

[@gooseboi2541]

I’ve been watching your videos a lot recently I love your reviews I’m getting back into bass I ended up getting a Jackson 4 string it sounds great, but I was wondering if you have any thoughts on danelectro basses? I’ve loved them since I was younger and just starting playing bass I’ve been looking at getting one I’m just not sure the quality of them or if they are worth the $599 price tag.

[@jasondorsey7110]

Danelectros are something of a niche instrument, I wouldn't want one as a "desert island" bass, but it's good if you're looking for something apart from the Fender crowd

[@McLeod220]

By the way, do you recommend specific strings for a Sire U5? 👍🏼

[@robertodiezgarcia2743]

Great Video!! 👍 V3P Video please🙏

[@melaniefayemusic]

is the glossed fretboard draggy?

[@sicilianmammalian]

Could you do a tuner shootout someday like gotoh vs hipshot I always liked hipshots but aren’t they a lot more expensive? It does not appear that they have a drop d tuner like hipshot yet though

[@PlayGameOnMac]

How is the intonation since it's short scale? Is it still manageable?

[@DAYANKEES45]

I NEED ONE IN LEFTY DAMN IT!!!!

[@kalvino67]

They make them in lefty too!

[@andrewzareie7043]

What is your favorite Shortscale?

[@stevewindsenergy]

Hello my Friend Lobster ! Question : 1) any cons or negatives you noticed in this bass? 2) despite it is not an active nass, sound output boost great enough? 3) Do you find some buzzing sounds due its short scale, or any kind of other noises? Thanks!

[@stevewindsenergy]

Also, compared to a Fender Mustang PJ, you think its better in terms of sound qualité ?

[@stevewindsenergy]

Hello Lobster ! On that U5 short scale, can I mount normal scale Strings Élixir Nanoweb 45-105?

[@ramshaar2597]

Nice and groovy

[@filipedecastro4718]

Can u review the fretless one?

[@handybunny]

I wish Sire made a medium scale bass. The short scale looks like a toy to me.

[@fabiolimadesiqueira]

yeah !!!!....still the best 👍

[@russelie]

Looks great, but imo the bridge pickup is too close to the bridge.

[@farisdixon3848]

Sandburg Florence short scale bass

[@willistaylor4077]

Still missing the Beard. ❤😊

[@willistaylor4077]

I've just bought a Gretsch G2220 Short-scale Bass. I'm going to keep Roundwound strings on it. I'm also buying a CV Mustang Short-scale Bass, and will be putting Flatwound strings on that one. Lob, would you put Flats or Rounnds on this one, the Sire U5?

[@jimsuber6784]

or an old man with arthritis who is amazing lol, when he can get his fingers to stretch.

[@fredparker3384]

Do you have to use certain string length for these?? Newbie here….sorry.

[@newtownmitch]

I have one and if I string it through the body, I use medium scale strings. It works great

[@chrisjennings5680]

I wish Sire made a 5 string version of this!

[@jugglerj0e]

How is the tension of the low B string on a short-scale bass? Wouldn't it be floppy & go out of tune often???

[@Ronofthedead07]

@@jugglerj0eplenty of 5- and 6-string short scales exist, but the good ones tend to be quite expensive. So…there seems to be a way to get a good B on a short scale…

[@TenFalconsMusic]

Might be cool if you tuned it EADGB with light gauge strings. Tuned standard, I imagine that low B would be flopping around like a hooked fish.

[@daevien]

If you lose track of the fact you are doing a video and start improvising on the patterns pretty quickly, it's easy to know it will be a good review ;)

[@piotrfronc9773]

Welp, got mine after you reviewed it. Traded it for a player mustang, bought it back, put some flat wounds. My only regret is I got the tobacco burst one with maple top instead of mint one. Also, would you care to test the fretless version? I was trying to get my hands on a replacement fretless neck, but no luck in the part of the world I live in.

[@dismentei]

I've a mint green one like this; ok, good sound and finish but bad ergonomics... no rounded body (suffering forearm) and neck dive. 👎🏻

[@Barry101er]

On my want list, but not get list, as yet

[@mr.d2105]

Where is your beard?

[@Prepman51]

Anyone have a Overall Length? LL is on vacation.

[@jasondoe2596]

Gorgeous little bass, in the worst possible color (sorry : ) Please, *please* give it a set of flatwounds for the upcoming video!

[@LowEndLobster]

Oh I know hahaha. I don't specify colors for these, but I have a special custom U5 coming later this year!

[@DeanBolz]

I got that color because I got a nice deal on it. It's growing on me lol

[@LowEndLobster]

Me too though I kick myself for getting rid of that gorgeous sunburst one I had

[@TenFalconsMusic]

Our fellow bass players of the female persuasion might like the powder blue on this one. That being said, you don't see many of our lady comrades sporting basses with girly colours.

[@DeanBolz]

@@TenFalconsMusic I wouldn't say it's a girly color, but my wife and daughter like the color

[@scottbrower9052]

Why don't you *ever* disclose price?

[@LowEndLobster]

Didn't I? They're 529

[@katelynseng8341]

You didnt rate it

[@LowEndLobster]

It's a revisit, I rated it in my previous review. I don't rate in revisits unless the rating changes

[@DarrenSaw]

I have to say the styling is seriously dull, shame for a nice instrument.

[@Invictus13666]

At least all the sire slobberfest content breaks up the Harley Benton slobberfest content. Love you, Lobster, but except for the fender gold foil update you’ve become stale. How about just 10 minutes of you playing on a fretless? No talking, just being creative? I’d watch that. Your joy with the fretless is beautiful and infectious and your playing goes up about a dozen notches. ❤

[@TenFalconsMusic]

An Alembic or Wal marathon wouldn't make me sad.