Gauges: 40-100?

Groovin' Base · #1 07-25-2010, 07:23 AM

Hi all,

I couldn't find this on search, but I have a question about string gauge.

I always had 45-105 strings, but now I'm able to get a good deal on 40-100 DR Sunbeams, so I thought I might give it a shot. But I have no idea what to expect as I never consciously played this gauge. Will this be a huge difference in tone and playability? What are your experiences? Why do and why don't?

Any input is appreciated.

Edit: I forgot: I play mostly pop, soul and funk, I like slapping but mostly play fingered.

Bob C · #2 07-25-2010, 07:42 AM

All other things being equal, lighter strings will be a little easier to play, easier to bend and sound a little less meaty than a heavier gauge.

The differences may be small, but probably noticeable. And each brand and type of string (round, flat, nickel, steel, hex core, etc) has its own characteristics. In other words, if you're going from a Fender flatwound steel105 to a Dean Markley roundwound nickel .100 you have three variables.

BUT it's not a big deal. I don't mean to scare you off of experimenting. I used .045-.105 for years, then switched to .040-.100. You will possibly need to do a slight trussrod adjustment when switching guages. Not a big deal either.

badstonebass · #3 07-25-2010, 11:18 AM

I use 100's and they work fine. I don't really notice a difference in tone from 105 and it sure is easier on the hands during a 4 hour gig.

knuckle_head · #4 07-25-2010, 11:23 AM

What are the middle gauges? Sounds like a good start....

Stingraymund · #5 07-25-2010, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Groovin' Base

Hi all,

I couldn't find this on search, but I have a question about string gauge.

I always had 45-105 strings, but now I'm able to get a good deal on 40-100 DR Sunbeams, so I thought I might give it a shot. But I have no idea what to expect as I never consciously played this gauge. Will this be a huge difference in tone and playability? What are your experiences? Why do and why don't?

Any input is appreciated.

Edit: I forgot: I play mostly pop, soul and funk, I like slapping but mostly play fingered.

What kind of bass do you play? Is it passive or active? Do you attack the strings aggressively or lightly?

I don't think you'll notice the difference in tone that much on the 40-100 set. It might feel a little comfortable and you might be able to move around the fretboard a tad bit faster.

fretlessguy · #6 07-25-2010, 06:12 PM

I use primarily .40-.100 as well. There will be slight differences as others have noted. It might be a good idea to start with the same brand and type you already play at the heavier gauge. Then you can experiment with other types of the same gauge and determine what you like best.

Groovin' Base · #7 07-26-2010, 02:46 AM

Thanks for your input.

Right now I'll be using them on an upgraded Squier jazz bass, but I hope to switch to a Fender J in a while. I'm not a rough player, but at times may want to get wild

I'm just hesitating to switch as I'm used to 45-105. In the end it might even be more economical to buy what I know I like for the full price. But I guess trying is the only way to find out.

blr2 · #8 07-26-2010, 04:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Groovin' Base

Thanks for your input.

Right now I'll be using them on an upgraded Squier jazz bass, but I hope to switch to a Fender J in a while. I'm not a rough player, but at times may want to get wild

I'm just hesitating to switch as I'm used to 45-105. In the end it might even be more economical to buy what I know I like for the full price. But I guess trying is the only way to find out.

If you are used to a particular model and gauge, and it's working good for you, there is no point IMO to change just because something is a bit cheaper right now. Next time you change strings there may be something else on sale.
About your question, going from 45-105 to 40-100 may not change your tone that much, providing they are the same brand and model, but you may need to loosen the truss rod a bit and rise the action to avoid fret buzz.

Bob C · #9 07-26-2010, 07:36 AM

I agree experimenting is good. But I wouldn't switch just for the price, especially if you're happy with what you use now.

Where are buying strings? Locally, through the mail or online? Many big outlets have big sales or frequent sales, so you can eventually get what you really want or need.

Groovin' Base · #10 07-26-2010, 08:36 AM

Makes sense... I'll think about it. It's tempting to try. It's not that I'm consciously content with 45-105, I'm just used to them and have never used anything else. It can only be a conscious choice once I tried alternatives, I guess.

I buy locally by choice, but DR and especially Sunbeams are hard to come by around here (Holland), regardless online/local. So you'll understand my enthusiasm when I found them on sale

John Wentzien · #11 07-26-2010, 08:43 AM

Go for it!...I switched after 35 years of using 45-105...Took a little bit to get used to...but I am sure glad I did it!

BassBrass · #12 07-26-2010, 08:44 AM

I'm trying GR low riders in 100 and they feel and sound good. Still like the bigger gage on the sunbeams cause they are softer feeling with the round core vs hexagonal.

John Wentzien · #13 07-26-2010, 08:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BassBrass

I'm trying GR low riders in 100 and they feel and sound good. Still like the bigger gage on the sunbeams cause they are softer feeling with the round core vs hexagonal.

YES!..the "hex-core" string have a little more tension than "round-core".

bassaroo · #14 07-26-2010, 09:06 AM

I know my response here is slightly off topic: You're wondering if the lighter gauge strings will work for you.

I don't know about the guage part of the equasion, but you did mention that the strings are the Sunbeams and I can comment on that: I think Sunbeam nickles are GREAT strings.

I hope that is somehow helpful.

Chrisk-K · #15 07-26-2010, 10:23 PM

I use DR Loriders on my Lakland DJ and DR Hi-Beams on my Geddy Lee, both stainless 40-100. I love them.

Stuart Zender recorded all of his Jamiroquai bass lines with 35-95. Thicker strings don't necessarily equal better tone.

Johnny Crab · #16 07-26-2010, 10:48 PM

Do it.

I went from standard "105" Rotoasound sets to 40-60-80-100 Rotosounds.
You will have to:

1) Readjust action, trussrod.
2) Possibly modify your EQ as the lighter D and G may seem "thinner"

Helps keep necks from going away 4 sure.

Groovin' Base · #17 07-26-2010, 11:15 PM

Ok, I just got to know now

I just heard that Richard Bona also uses 40-100? Don't know if it's true, but I wouldn't call his tone thin either... But then his bass is slightly better than mine

darkstorm · #18 07-27-2010, 12:07 AM

I use to use 40-100 rotosounds. Is slightly easier playing, but also a little less wallop compared to 45-102 or 45-105 rotosounds. Havent compared other brands 40-100 gauges.

ridgeback · #19 07-27-2010, 04:13 AM

have always used 40 60 80 100 125 yamaha rounds on my standard bass and to be honest if i used 45 -130 i could not tell any differance.... but i could notice a huge difference in sound and feel if i used 40s on my fretless i much prefare to use 45s...maybe the action has something to do with it but 40s just sound thin and way to bright on the fretless..(stingray is bright as it is)

Gtrslngr · #20 07-29-2010, 07:32 AM

I have been using the light Sunbeams on my 5 Strings and I recently started dropping thumb off of pickup to rest on b string for muting purposes. I would like the B to be a little more stable and I'm wondering if anyone knows if it makes more difference by going to hex core light gauge or keep round core with heavier gauge.