G# on a 4-string 34'. Am I crazy?

[kuys]

I've recently tuned my baritone to this tunning G# D# G# C# F# A# and want to match up my bass. I realize there will be some nut filling and that I may end up with a floppy-as-hell top string. If that's the case, would it be feasible to go from this G# D# G# C# to this D# G# C# F# or even C# G# C# F#?

Advice? Thoughts? String gauge?

[knuckle_head]

You ain't crazy look for something around a .158

[ixlramp]

G#0 on a 34" scale is no problem with the right string. Circle K Strings sell excellent drop tune sets designed to have equal tension on each string in the drop tuning (so no floppy lowest string): vStandard Drop-tuned 4 Strings. You need at least the .150 set (extra light).

[FunkMetalBass]

I have a 35" scale and prefer my strings heavy, so I use a .166 for my A/G# string. Sounds and feels great. Your 34" will be fine.

Also, a 34' scale is a crazy idea. At 34 feet, a .015 string would get you to G#0 with 40 lbs of tension.

[kuys]

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

You ain't crazy look for something around a .158

If I plan on occasionally bringing that bottom string up to the 4th's relationship would the .150 drop tuned set be a better choice?

[knuckle_head]

If you're going to shift that whole step it's usually best to split the difference between Dropped and Standard so the low string is a little off each way as opposed to way too tight or loose one way or the other.

Drop G#
.158 .106 .079 .059

A# Standard
.142 .106 .079 .059

The .150 in addition to the .106 .079 and .059 will let you do what you want most effectively.

[kuys]

I'm going to just dress up a pig (my old bass) as g# only bass with your 158 set.


Does CircleK sell pre-made nuts?

[knuckle_head]

There really is no way to do that without the bass on my bench - I do a killer nut but . . . .

[madmatt]

Yes.