Good heavy guage strings?

complexprocess · #1 12-10-2004, 10:37 AM

I'm looking to find a heavy guage 4 string set, and would like some recommendations. I'm going to be playing in a metal band with my brother, and for this particular band he tunes down to about C#. Right now I'm using .045-.105s, and I'd like to try something heavier to try and get a little tension back. I'd like some recommendations of heavy strings, and maybe a comment on the tone of each. I'm not picky, but I'd like to have an idea of what to expect as I try out a few brands.

Thanks a heap in advance.

[edit]
my preference is nickel plated round wounds, but I'm not totally agains steels. I might consider trying a flatwound, but I'm not sure I'll find one with a tone that fits the music.

desdinovabass · #2 12-10-2004, 12:12 PM

i'd go with ghs boomers 50-115 if your doin drop c#
but if you're tuning ever sting down 1 and a half steps i'd go with a really light 5 string set

tappel · #3 12-10-2004, 04:07 PM

Also:

Ken Smith extra heavy bass burners (roundwound nickel plated)
50 70 90 115

and

La Bella Hard Rockin' steel M70 "D" Tuning (stainless roundwound)
54 75 90 111

Tom

complexprocess · #4 12-10-2004, 08:59 PM

Thanks guys,
To clarify, all 4 strings will be down a step and a half. I had considered a light 5 string set, but thought that might be just a bit too tight. I'll consider it, and maybe the extra heavy burners (I didn't know they existed, I'm currently playing burners, so that might be a good way to go.) Keep 'em coming everybody. I have a feeling I'll be trying a few solutions.

zero7 · #5 12-11-2004, 07:32 PM

Definitely get a light 5 set, 120-95-75-55 should be fine.
Don't be affraid to go higher, you are perfectly safe if you stay below 130-65.

complexprocess · #6 12-12-2004, 01:20 AM

Are you sure they won't snap or something? That's probably going to be tight.

Maybe I'll get a heavy 4 set and a light-ish 5 set (if it's safe like you say) and see which i prefer. Since I've been tuning way down, i've noticed that playing flabby strings is kinda fun, if only they were a little tighter.

zero7 · #7 12-12-2004, 10:05 AM

Actually, a 120 tuned to C# has less tension than a 105 tuned to E.

It's not going to be tight at all.

complexprocess · #8 12-12-2004, 05:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zero7

Actually, a 120 tuned to C# has less tension than a 105 tuned to E.

It's not going to be tight at all.

Is there a string tension calculator somewhere that you used to figure that out? I'd like to be able to compare tensions between a few different setups.

zero7 · #9 12-12-2004, 06:19 PM

Sure, there is a very useful chart on D'Addario's website. Link

Saetia · #10 12-14-2004, 02:55 AM

Not all strings have the same tension at the same gauge do they? I've always thought there was a difference between manufacturers.

Peace
-Ben

complexprocess · #11 01-04-2005, 03:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zero7

Sure, there is a very useful chart on D'Addario's website. Link

Turns out I'm not smart enough to make sense out of this chart and use it appropriately. I'll try to have a look at it when I'm feeling a bit brighter.

In the meanwhile, any assistance would be appreciated.