Most common string gauge: 4-string, standard tuning
 

I'm curious as to the most common string gauge for 4-string bassists here on TB. I'm not looking to compare flats vs. half-rounds vs. round-wounds, nor am I looking at brand choices.

Even if you don't reply, please vote in the poll. Thanks.

45-105

I voted other- 40 60 80 100 for me

I do need to ask this.... Early results indicate the mixed sets are leading. :)

I know with guitar that mixed sets like the 0.009-0.046 set that Jeff Beck prefers or the Ernie Ball "Skinny Top Heavy Bottom" 0.010-0.052 set give a player ability to do a lot of bends and fast lead riffs while giving some meat for driving rhythms. What benefit does a mixed set give a bass player?

How are the extra lights guys? I use lights myself and have loved those over regulars but I've never gone lighter.

I use balanced sets from D'addario by picking out individual strings and calculating the tension.

My current 36-33.5" fanned bass uses this set for ~28lbs of tension per string give or take.

130, 90, 65, 50, 32

On my CGDG tuned 34" scale bass, I use:
125 80 50 40

Lights (0.045-0.100).

D'addario EXL170 strings

Most popular based on sales...

45-100
45-105

So far it looks like SLaPiNFuNK's experience is replicating itself here. Mixed sets are in the lead with lights a close second. Heavies are bringing up the rear.

I've got lights on my Jazz bass now, and I think I might go to .045-.105s next.

My favorite is the 40-95, with a 47-107 being on the other. (I'm erratic with gauges. :atoz:)

--Silvie

I think bassist who go down the path of experimenting with different strings eventually go with a lighter gauge like .40 - .100. Reason being they're less tension, easier on the fingers, have a clearer tone, and can still get quite thumpy and bassy.

I clicked 'Other' as I use 50.70.85.110 for standard tuning. The sound is very heavy, the strings bite back as they're quite taut and 85 A has similar tension to 110 E. It's good for playing fast.

I wouldn't mind using lighter strings, as they give a very nice, clear tone and sustain. But for now...

My G and D string notes usually cut through pretty well. My A and E string notes can get tubby/muddy/flabby when I really start digging in. I'm considering a mixed set of there's a chance it'll fix that.

.045 through .105 is going to be the largest market segment

^ this

Been using D'Addario nickle wound regular lights (.45-.100) for years, love them!

.45-.105 for me. Add a .125 for a low B

45-105 on everything if I can. 45-100 chromes when I dont have a choice. Once my Pbass is done I'm going to try 50-110 again.

Rounds 45 or 50 105
Flats 40-95 for less tension

Out of curiosity, which name brand is the most popular based on sells - or is it all over the map?