if i got a set of 5-strings and used the top 4 on my four string

[bazmeister]

if i got a set of 5-strings and used the top 4 on my four string bass would that work? i dont want to buy a 5 string bass cause im already geting a new 4 string bass but i want the deep b string on my 4th string?

[Basshole]

Yes, In most cases, you won't have to even change setup. You may have to, however, adjust intonation, and/or nut slots, as well as maybe loosen the truss rod a little. Contrary to what you may think, the lower strings actually have less tension.

I have a Jaguar strung BEAD. At the store where I bought it, we just took the lower 4 from a 5 set, and ran the strings back and forth through the nut a few times until they sat right in the slots.

Nothing else was changed, the bass plays perfect. YMMV.

[Doich]

Amazing,just yesterday I was wondering exactly the same thing!!!

However,I think it would be better if the 4 strings had quite long scale (35"),wouldn't it?

[ducatiman]

i've done BEAD on a jazz before, used d'addario XL170.
earlier poster was correct, just a small nut slot enlargement needed on the B, then regular setup, voila !

[GeoffByrne]

I've been running a Fretless Thunder III and an Ibanez Roadstar both strung BEAD for some time. No probs. I actually prefer the fretless strung like that.