5 String set on a 4 string

Funkmasta66 · #1 07-21-2009, 10:56 PM

hey ive been hearing about a lot of people using 5 string sets on a 4 string bass, for a heavier sound. Does this cause any problems for your bass, does it really make that much difference in sound?

Red Planet · #2 07-21-2009, 11:03 PM

I'd be curious about this as well. Been playing some moder Jazz with a Band an the Low notes are killing me trying to cover those parts with a 4 string. Though I would hate to loose my G string to do it.

Subscribed.

SpamBot · #3 07-21-2009, 11:05 PM

You may need to replace the nut on your bass. You might not have to. Other than that, it's pretty straightforward. I'd recommend a light-gauge set so you can use your current nut, and if it's too floppy, get a new nut optimized for those gauges.

Ozzman · #4 07-21-2009, 11:16 PM

The nut change is a good idea, or filing it out to fit the bigger gauge. But I don't recommend a lightweight set, stick to standard .45-.130, throw away the .45 or keep it as a spare for another bass and now you have a bass tuned BEAD. You will most likely have to adjust the truss rod because the neck is gonna have a lot more tension on it with the heavier gauge.

Intenzity · #5 07-21-2009, 11:26 PM

I just converted a Lakland I have to do this. I really like it.

The nut on the E string position to be carved out a little for the B string but that was not a big deal.

It takes a little getting used to, obviously, the notes you are used to with EADG are in different places, but it you have been playing a 5 it is not that bad.

It is like getting the playability of a 4 string (the smaller neck size) but with the bottom end of a 5 string, still being able to get down to the low D and B. Its great for breaking lazy habits as well, because all the cliche patterns in the keys you are used to are not in the same place anymore.

greenboy · #6 07-22-2009, 12:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ozzman

You will most likely have to adjust the truss rod because the neck is gonna have a lot more tension on it with the heavier gauge.

Less actually. B strings tend to have the least tension in a set.

sillyfabe · #7 07-22-2009, 12:30 AM

just did this not too long ago with my jazz fretless and it sounds great. the nut had to be filed of course. i use rotosound 88 trubass black nylonwound strings tuned .75-.135 as my sig says and it sounds great to my ears! i usually gig with the bridge p/u at 0-10% on and the bridge full on with the tone all the way down. has a nice mwah and enough bottom end to be in any rap music video

MNAirHead · #8 07-22-2009, 12:43 AM

GHS tapes will go on (usually) with minimal filing.

spigmu · #9 07-22-2009, 09:12 AM

I went BEAD on my ATK, but wasn't happy with the 5 string gauges I saw because of lack of tension and girth, so I just moved 'em over and got the most massive ass low B I could find.

RickenBoogie · #10 07-22-2009, 12:03 PM

My Ric 4004Cii is strung BEAD with 65-85-105-125 gauge Slinky's. Seriously badass.

j.stemmler · #11 07-23-2009, 12:25 PM

would you have to do anything to the truss rod at all when changing over?

SpamBot · #12 07-23-2009, 12:27 PM

Maybe, maybe not. Wait and see.

D.Don · #13 07-23-2009, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ozzman

The nut change is a good idea, or filing it out to fit the bigger gauge. But I don't recommend a lightweight set, stick to standard .45-.130, throw away the .45 or keep it as a spare for another bass and now you have a bass tuned BEAD. You will most likely have to adjust the truss rod because the neck is gonna have a lot more tension on it with the heavier gauge.

You mean that the neck is gonna have a lot LESS tension ...

D.Don