D'Addario C string question, DR Sunbeam tension

Rodger Bryan · #1 12-10-2011, 07:45 PM

For years, the EXL170-5SL was my string of choice for my modulus. When I moved to playing a 6-string, I couldn't find a 6SL set in nickel, but I could add a separate C string to a 5SL set. Are the D'Addario C's (.032, .028) fine for 35" scale length?

I've searched the archives, but could not find a comparison of DR medium sunbeams to D'Addario EXL170-SL in terms of tension. I've read speculation that if the gauges are the same but it is round vs. hex, that the hex core would be higher in tension. Can anyone confirm this?

madbassplaya · #2 12-10-2011, 07:55 PM

I honestly don't know the answer about scale length as I've never bought a 6 string pack of XL's. I know for my 35 inch scale 5 string I had at one time I had to buy the Super Long XL's.

Jason at Welcome to Bass Strings Online - Your Custom Bass String Shop... could help you. Register as a VIP and save some cash as well (just tell him you're a TB member in registration).

Also, Sunbeams should have less tension than the D'Addarios because they are round core. They will be just a little more "bouncy". If you want hex core, the LowRiders (nickel) are great from what I hear. I've only used the Sunbeams though.

SLaPiNFuNK · #3 12-10-2011, 08:17 PM

Yes. The strings usable winding goes till the end of the string. It measures like 48" total length something like that. Can be used on any bass scale length.

This goes for some of the other lighter gauge strings as well...

ixlramp · #4 12-10-2011, 08:56 PM

.032 and .028 are fine on 35" but a .032 will be tight.
.032 is a good match for a .045 G. .028 a good match for a .040 G.

madbassplaya · #5 12-10-2011, 09:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SLaPiNFuNK

Yes. The strings usable winding goes till the end of the string. It measures like 48" total length something like that. Can be used on any bass scale length.

This goes for some of the other lighter gauge strings as well...

Told you he'd know. This guy is my string guru!

ddawson2012 · #6 12-12-2011, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SLaPiNFuNK

Yes. The strings usable winding goes till the end of the string. It measures like 48" total length something like that. Can be used on any bass scale length.

This goes for some of the other lighter gauge strings as well...

+1 -This is correct - all D'Addario Bass strings are cut at 48" in length.

SLaPiNFuNK · #7 12-12-2011, 01:11 PM

While you are here you may know this...

Which strings are wound for the full 48" like the high C string. There are many that want to use singles to make custom sets for super long scale but only a few E and B strings are indicated with super long scale.

I may just unwind a few singles to see, but if you know it will save me some.

Thanks!

ixlramp · #8 12-12-2011, 04:09 PM

Paul at stringsdirect.co.uk told me that the nut-end taper appears on the .065 and up, so single wrap up to .060. I also discovered that 'long scale' and 'super long scale' singles are identical for .075 and thinner, since the AD strings never have a tuner post close to the nut. Long scale .075 and thinner are actually Super long scale strings with the longer usable winding length of 38".

SLaPiNFuNK · #9 12-12-2011, 04:31 PM

Thats about what I figured for the smaller gauge strings... I just haven't opened them up yet. When ever I can I prefer to not unwind any new strings...

Thanks!

deeptubes · #10 12-12-2011, 04:47 PM

I use 160s - .105 .085 .070 .050 - with a .035 for my C. I prefer more tension on my thinner strings.

ixlramp · #11 12-12-2011, 05:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ixlramp

Paul at stringsdirect.co.uk told me that the nut-end taper appears on the .065 and up, so single wrap up to .060. I also discovered that 'long scale' and 'super long scale' singles are identical for .075 and thinner, since the AD strings never have a tuner post close to the nut. Long scale .075 and thinner are actually Super long scale strings with the longer usable winding length of 38".

Being specific here ... all info is for ProSteels singles and is 1 or 2 years out of date.

lowfreq33 · #12 12-12-2011, 05:31 PM

On the nickels the E and B are tapered. At a glance I'm not sure the long scale would work on a 35". Looks like the B taper starts about 3/4" behind the nut on the 34" I have sitting here.

SLaPiNFuNK · #13 12-12-2011, 05:35 PM

I am still going to measure them... maybe I'll get to it tonight...