Hi There:
I play both 4 and 5 String basses, but generally prefer 4. The 5 string opens additonal tones and shall also allow you fuller "clusters" of notes without the need to move your hand as much as on a 4 string. I find that some musical situations also suit a 5 string better (Jazz fusion for example) whilst others (most in my case) are more than covered by a 4 string. Its also a question of taste, and most importantly comfort too.

I assume you are in the USA, and if you are USD750 can buy you quite a lot. If I were making the choice (and was right handed too!!), I would go for the Fender MIM Jazz Deluxe 5 string without hesitation. I dont think they can be faulted too much for the money, and like most Fenders its rare they let you down. However, its important to find an instrument that you connect with, so best you take a trip to your local store and try out as many as you can before making your choice.

Good luck in taking the plunge,
Tom.

I love my Cort Rob Elrick model 5'er. It has a modern look if youre not into the retro thing. Prefect string spacing. Korean Bart pups and pre, wonderfully solid bridge, hipshot tuners. The the thing is a dream, and is right in your price range!

I recently down graded (so to speak) to a 5 from a 6 mainly because of string spacing and the tone on my 6 wasn't great.

I'm a working muso and so have a small budget.
I decided to go back to Yamaha as I find their RBX series as good as the BB and TRB series.

I got a Yamaha RBX 375 a couple of days ago, played one before, loved it and I mail ordered it from GAK.co.uk (VEEERRRRYYY good service! 5 times).

I liked this bass becuase of it's broad neck and it's completely active too!
Don't worry bout floppy B strings it's not always the case but here's the bit I want to stress...Watch out for string spacing!!!
Most budget AND even expensive 5ers have narrow necks and if you slap it's very difficult, tough not impossable to slap with.

Have a look around but I'd say the Yamaha RBX 375 has all the tones, progressiveness and playablity I need and trust me, I'm fussy!