BEAD on a 4 string bass

SuperSluggard · #1 06-09-2004, 12:38 PM

Has anyone ever tried using tuning their string on a 4 string bass to BEAD? And when using this tuning, have you used standard 5 string bass strings, not including the G string? I would like to get a 5 string bass, although currently I don't have one, and I never use to the G string on my bass anyway. So, please let me know if this would work.

JimK · #2 06-09-2004, 01:24 PM

I have never tried re-tuning EADG to = BEAD.
I have re-strung to BEAD.
I did need to use a tapered core "B" string(so it would fit my bridge).
The nut also needed some filing.

Anthony Jackson did the BEAD thang back in the '70s(pre-5 string & 6-string).

Schecter was recently selling a BEAD bass.

hodgy · #3 06-09-2004, 01:35 PM

My G&L Asat is strung up BEAD (it is my backup for the Fiver).
I use a 5 string set (.125 on the low side, I think), and had my boy K-dog do a set-up for me. It's dreamy.
I also had to use a tapered strings for it to rock properly.

Gut_Implosion · #4 06-09-2004, 02:22 PM

I tune my 4 stringer down to BEAD and I just use rotosound flats 110-97-75-50 and it sounds unbelievably deep and gutsy. Detuned flatwounds are the greatest sound ever

lemur821 · #5 06-09-2004, 03:21 PM

I've detuned a few times. If your lowest string is a .105" or so, it will probably be too floppy to play easily. The others seem to work remarkably well. If you need the high G, maybe you could go from B flat to G, in fifths. You'd need a thicker string for the B flat, and probably for a B in BEAD tuning.