Maximum string tension?

[bassclefjeff]

Ive Always wanted to tune my strings higher and higher untill they break to find out what note each one can reach. I always forget to do that when it comes time to replace the strings. Does anyone know off the top of their heads what each string can handle? Specificly the A (3rd) string? I know it is different for each string gauge you can buy for each string, so just assume mediums (.045, .065, .80, .105).

thanks,
Jeff

[73jbass]

Why?

[bassclefjeff]

Originally Posted by 73jbass

Why?

Have you never tuned your instruments differently just to experiment around? It was just a simple question.

[73jbass]

Sure,but not to the point of breaking strings. Just don't understand why you would want to do that.

[Buskman]

Not to mention that you're putting a lot of (unecessary) strain on your bass' neck, too!

[stedtale]

the strings can take tension just slightly below the amount that the strings break at.

[Asa Samuel]

Originally Posted by stedtale

the strings can take tension just slightly below the amount that the strings break at.

I concur.

[dreadheadbass]

not sure what tension strings can handle i would recomend however..
two 10inch titanium reinforced kryptonite truss rods and a solid steel neck with solid diamon stiffening rods

nah just kiddin seriously though be carefull how much tension you put on the neck remember a low E string can probably take a hell of a lot of tension before it breaks which might be more than your neck can handle!!!

[stedtale]

You could, which I don't recommend, try figuring it out yourself. Tune it up until something snaps (string, neck, etc) while keeping track of the pitch. If you know scale length, pitch and unit weight or the string you can figure out tension quite easily.

Originally Posted by stedtale

how to calculate tension:


T = tension in pounds;

UW = unit weight of the string, in pounds per linear inch;

L = vibrating length of the string (for an open string, this would be the scale length-nut to bridge) in inches;

F = frequency of the note to which you will tune the string, in Hz;


(this info is from www.liutaiomottola.com and is copyright © 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 by R.M. Mottola, who apparently is a genius)

But, I would not do this.

Really though. why do you want to know, do you have a plan for something, or just plain curiosity?

[Koki]

Just out Jamerson flats on. You don't need more tension than that.
I think that probably neck would snap before strings breaking unless you have two truss rods or something..

[5andFretless]

We will know tomorrow. I will take an old bass string, put in the tensile strength machine and pop that sucker.

I'll post back tomorrow with the results

[stedtale]

results yet?

[mjolnir]

Interesting question...