What scale length bass should I get?

[TheMaartian]

@michael585360

Just started play bass and practicing with a band. I have a normal scale Ibanez but I feel like the 34 scale length is too big for my small hands.
I have pretty flexible finger and can make long stretches but I have limitation and I want to cause strain too my finger. I recently found out about medium scale length basses (32" length) but there are limited options so I was wondering if they are even worth it or should i go for a short scale (30" length) bass?

I bought a Gibson SG shorty after I injured my left shoulder falling on ice and found that the reach to the first fret was a little uncomfortable. I now have about 15 shorties, including 3 fretless. I just got used to the 30" scale. There’s a ton of choice in basses and strings.

Not so for 32" medium scale. Limited choices. I tried an inexpensive 32" Ibanez. I hated it. Active only. No passive option. HORRIBLE preamp. Super touchy. Never sounded good to me, no matter how I configured the tone controls. Sold.

If you can afford around $525-$550, look for a Sire U5 (I have both the fretted and fretless versions). Great short scale bass for the money. Punches way above its cost. I had to wait for both after ordering, but worth it.

Here’s a review from Low End Lobster.

Sire U5 Short Scale Review - All hail the KING of budget short scales! - LowEndLobster Review

Here are mine.