Changing Strings on a Bass Setup for C?

Xanthyon · #1 07-06-2009, 11:26 PM

OK, so I guess this is a stupid question, but i hope somebody will give me answer.

Ok, so I've had by bass setup for drop c (CGCF) and when I had the tech do it on my new bass, the only heavy gauged strings they had in stock were ghs boomers. I dont like them too much. they sound good but I dont like the feel and when I practice after a while my hands get sweaty and my fingers start slipping on the stings and i dont feel like i have enough control over them. So, i want new strings.

My main question is since my bass has been set up for CGCF, do I just change the strings as I normally would? OR do I have to take it to the tech again? I have yet to change strings while in this tuning so im not to sure. Any help would be appreciated.

Also, I prefer flats or coated strings. (what i prefer playing so far). So I cant decide, DR Black Beauties Heavy gauged, or Steve Harris signature rotosounds?

Sartori · #2 07-07-2009, 12:20 AM

Why not just use open C?

Anyway, I too really didn't like the ghs boomers. In fact, I hated them, mostly for the sound.

Different string brands often have different tensions. You could just change out the strings, but if using a different brand, the intonation and neck could possibly need adjustment.

Xanthyon · #3 07-07-2009, 12:22 AM

so i would just change the strings as normal?

Xanthyon · #4 07-07-2009, 09:25 AM

bump, still a little unsure

Ian Perge · #5 07-07-2009, 09:42 AM

Another Boomer-hater as well, and I think as long as you'd be changing strings around the gauges you have it set up for now (a .005 here or there wouldn't hurt I imagine) you'd be fine with just swapping the strings. Now, if going to flats (which can have significantly higher string tension) or coated strings (which could be taperwound, and therefore closer to the saddle than the Boomers) you might want to install them, wait a few days and see how they effect your setup. If they do and once you know, you make made the need changes or have your tech do so and you'll be set.

no1likesme · #6 07-07-2009, 09:45 AM

I have my bass tuned to drop C# (C#G#C#F#) and I am using GHS Precision flats and I love them.

and yes, you would just change your strings as normal (depending on the tension difference you may have to get it setup again).

salman · #7 07-07-2009, 12:12 PM

If you like flats, I would recommend the Rotosound Jazz Bass 77's (45-105), or the Steve Harris Signature. The Steve Harris are just a custom gauge of their Jazz strings (110 on the E I believe).They are very taught strings and work pretty well in a drop tune, they feel and sound great and last a long time. But as mentioned before, if you don't change your string brand, or significantly alter the string gauge, you should not have to get it set up again. But don't be surprised if you have to get the setup tweeked in a few weeks or so, many times truss rod adjustments will 'settle' in after a while and need to be adjusted slightly.

Rotosound also makes 'Drop Zone' model of string that is specifically designed for drop tuning. Again, just a heavier gauge of their round wounds, 125 or 130 I believe.

Sbociol · #8 07-07-2009, 12:18 PM

I have Rotosound Steve Harris signature on my CGCF 4 stringer and I've always done the setup by myself with no problems,you just need to check the truss rod carefully after every string swap and you're good to go

RickenBoogie · #9 07-07-2009, 12:21 PM

+1 on the Roto 77 Jazz Flats. My favorite flats, ever, and they last an eternity. Great sounding as well.

Xanthyon · #10 07-07-2009, 02:40 PM

thanks for the help. Yea Im trying to decide between the Steve Harris signatures or DR Black Beauties Heavy. Any idea how the beauties handle with drop tuning? and yea Ill probly just install the string myself and get it set up again.

Oh and once I do finally decide on a set of strings, everytime i change them Im guessing i just install them as usual and long as their the same exact ones?

salman · #11 07-08-2009, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Xanthyon

Oh and once I do finally decide on a set of strings, everytime i change them Im guessing i just install them as usual and long as their the same exact ones?

That's correct

zuokinis · #12 07-08-2009, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by salman

If you like flats, I would recommend the Rotosound Jazz Bass 77's (45-105), or the Steve Harris Signature. The Steve Harris are just a custom gauge of their Jazz strings (110 on the E I believe).They are very taught strings and work pretty well in a drop tune, they feel and sound great and last a long time. But as mentioned before, if you don't change your string brand, or significantly alter the string gauge, you should not have to get it set up again. But don't be surprised if you have to get the setup tweeked in a few weeks or so, many times truss rod adjustments will 'settle' in after a while and need to be adjusted slightly.

Rotosound also makes 'Drop Zone' model of string that is specifically designed for drop tuning. Again, just a heavier gauge of their round wounds, 125 or 130 I believe.

Steve Harris signature is nothing but the regular RS77 LE with a custom silk colors. Unless youre West Ham fan or you dont like the red thread its a waste of money getting the signature ones.