Gauges For Down Tuned 6 String

[Dr_No7134]

Hello everyone. I play a Spector 6 Legend Classic in a progressive/post metal band and was wondering what gauge I should be using. I'm planning on getting it setup later this week and need to pick out a set. My tuning from low to high is G#,C#,F#,B,E,A (3/2 steps down). Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[tstone]

Tell us what gauges on a conventional four-stringer would give you the tension and feel you're looking for. From that we can extrapolate.

[FunkMetalBass]

I like heavier strings, so I'd recommend gauges similar to the Circle K Balanced 174:

.174 .130 .098 .073 .055 .039

[Dr_No7134]

On my old 4 string I used Ernie Ball power Slinky .110 .09 .075 .055 and that played nice enough. I never really experimented with other gauges so I'm not sure how they compare.
I've also seen a lot about Circle Ks on the forum; are they the best brand to use?

[FunkMetalBass]

Originally Posted by Dr_No7134

On my old 4 string I used Ernie Ball power Slinky .110 .09 .075 .055 and that played nice enough. I never really experimented with other gauges so I'm not sure how they compare.
I've also seen a lot about Circle Ks on the forum; are they the best brand to use?

The guy who founded the company is a TB member. He not only has a vast array of string sizes available, but he also firmly believes in correcting the tension problems that traditional sets have (namely, that the D and G strings have 5-10 lbs more tension than the E and A). His philosophy: balanced tension, balanced tone. From experience it's true.

"The best" is subjective. I absolutely love Circle K's, and with few exceptions, I have them on all of my basses. They are comfortable, sound great, and last longer than most rounds. Also, if you use a string cleaning tube, you can triple their lifespan.

[knuckle_head]

Originally Posted by Dr_No7134

Hello everyone. I play a Spector 6 Legend Classic in a progressive/post metal band and was wondering what gauge I should be using. I'm planning on getting it setup later this week and need to pick out a set. My tuning from low to high is G#,C#,F#,B,E,A (3/2 steps down). Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

These are the gauges I'd suggest given the .110 you like.

Good call FMB

[FunkMetalBass]

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

These are the gauges I'd suggest given the .110 you like.

Good call FMB

Truthfully, your strings are so much more flexible than most hex cores that I'd always recommend one gauge higher than the preferred tension (unless otherwise restricted by the bridge or neck issues).

[ixlramp]

I highly recommend trying a set of Circle Ks, they are the best strings available for sub-B tunings.

[Dr_No7134]

I'll be getting myself a set of those then.Thanks guys

[FunkMetalBass]

Originally Posted by ixlramp

I highly recommend trying a set of Circle Ks, they are the best strings available for sub-B tunings.

Couldn't agree more. I've never been happier.