How low can you go

[joeyzaza]

What's the lowest possible tuning on a 5 string, and what strings are available for that really low tuning? I heard guys with 160 gauge B strings but I've never seen them anywhere.

[ralphbluecoat]

I suppose in theory you could go as low as you wanted to, it just wouldn't sound as good. Simply tune down the low B-string. I've never heard of any string lower than a B string, I honestly don't see much of a point. If you've seen playing really low tunings, they probably tuned the strings down or got there strings custom made.

[knuckle_head]

I have had in my posession a .235 that was intended for a C# but was used to go to octave down B. I understand there are efforts to make that low B a .250.

I know of someone else that has had wound a .330 to go to the G# below the C# but I have not heard the string yet.

The most commonly available thick string is a part of the SIT/Conklin Jauqo III X set that measures .195 - it is meant to tune to C#. I have found it a good string for octave down E.

[papajune]

i have drop A hipshot from my B on my fender cs, i never really use it because you have to be running you amp pretty hot so it doesnt sound to clanky, sounds wicked then though when i use it right, a handy Bd when needed.

[Bass Below]

My 5th string on my 34" scale bass is a .165 tuned to G#. That .165 is made by the same company that knuckle_head mentioned above.

I've never used anything heavier, and I probably never will. Increasing scale length is the better way to go when you want to get below a standard B.