Changing String Gauge

[rharmonson]

I am very new to bass guitars and bought a ESP LTD DF-404. It comes with a detuned setup by default, 130/110/90/70, but being new I suspect I need to start off with EADG versus BEAD. Looking at other non-detuned ESP LTD 4 string basses, they use 105/85/65/45 gauge wires.

Can I change to 105/85/65/45?

Thank you,

Richard

[BassBus]

You may have to have the nut changed if you change away from those guages as the strings may not sit correctly in it. Changing string guage alters the intonation on the instrument so what sounds in tune at the nut may be out of tune at the twelfth fret. Take your bass to someone who can give it a setup and they can advise you.

[MysticMichael]

Right. 130/110/90/70 to 105/85/65/45 is a pretty big change. In addition to swapping the nut, you may need to have the bridge saddles lowered, the intonation tweaked, the truss rod adjusted for more relief, maybe even have the pickups slightly raised...

I agree that since you're still inexperienced with the instrument, it's well worthwhile for you to bring it to a good guitar tech for a complete set-up.

MM

[rharmonson]

Thanks, guys. Exactly what I needed to know.