How do I get this tuning...

explodingPSYCH · #1 06-06-2009, 07:42 PM

I have a Fender Music Master bass (3/4 scale, like the mustang) and I've been wanting to mod it out once I get my second bass. I've been thinking I'd like to go to a baritone guitar style tuning (BEAD) starting at the B that would be the 2nd fret on a traditional bass.

I was thinking a regular A string and piccolo strings for the other ones, but the problem is I don't know if they even make 3/4 scale piccolo strings. Also I'd prefer to have them match as well as possible.

Any advice? I've also been considering pulling the frets, if anyone can point me in the right direction on something like that.

Thanks,
Johnny

ehque · #2 06-07-2009, 11:34 AM

If you're just going to use the A string from a bass set as your B, the D, G, and C strings of a 6-string bass set (BEADGC) can be used as your E, A and D with little ill effect.

Donate the B and E strings to 5-string players, or use them on your own 5-strings.

JustDavid · #3 06-07-2009, 02:07 PM

+1. I think your scale equals 34" capo'ed on the 2nd fret, so you'll get the design tension.

Curious: why string that way?

explodingPSYCH · #4 06-07-2009, 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JustDavid

+1. I think your scale equals 34" capo'ed on the 2nd fret, so you'll get the design tension.

Curious: why string that way?

my guitar parts are usually written on a classical guitar dropped to this tuning and i find myself wanting even more space between the strings, and i'm only ever using the higher two strings for overdubs and writing, so it'd do me good to set this up this way. plus i'm getting a jazz bass/precision neck pretty soon, so i can afford to experiment with this one.

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do you guys think i'll have any trouble winding them without the taper of the strings?

is there a decent online resource for getting strings? maybe even single strings?

WayneS · #5 06-07-2009, 05:35 PM

www.juststrings.com

explodingPSYCH · #6 06-07-2009, 05:52 PM

i've found some "long scale" 6 string sets and some "short scale" six string sets. should i go for the short scale and drop down?

JustDavid · #7 06-07-2009, 06:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by explodingPSYCH

do you guys think i'll have any trouble winding them without the taper of the strings?

Since your thickest string is a "standard A", I wouldn't worry. An E would be fine, but a 34" scale B might be rough.

dexplosion · #8 06-08-2009, 05:41 PM

Maybe try strings for a baritone guitar.
Something like this.