Putting on new strings

[RyRob813]

I'm sure there's a few threads about this already, but probably none that are this specific-

I put on a new set of strings myself for the first time today. I've watched it done a million times, and practiced before hand with an old bass taking the strings off and then putting them back on, so I knew what I was doing.

The strings are on fine and sound great, but there was alot of extra coil around at the top- does this matter, and if so, should I loosen the strings and cut it down?

Thanks!

[Fuzzy Dustmite]

I'm sure you'll get a ton of different responses, but when I change my strings (not that often, since I use flatwounds), I cut them about 4" past the tuning peg, which gives me 2 or 3 wraps around the post.

[Ben Rolston]

Its really up to you.

I don't think you'll get any difference in sound. One consideration is that if you don't cut them, you can transfer them to a different bass and not (usually) worry about whether they will be too short.

Ben

[mark roberts]

Originally Posted by Fuzzy Dustmite

I'm sure you'll get a ton of different responses, but when I change my strings (not that often, since I use flatwounds), I cut them about 4" past the tuning peg, which gives me 2 or 3 wraps around the post.

I find that when I follow DR's recommendation for string installation, my strings last longer. I've been playing for a looooong time and installed many sets. When I started using their advice, my strings lasted longer (longer = keeping the "newer" sound as opposed to being a thudder).

The above advice is right, but before you cut, take pliers and bend the string at 90 degrees at that length which is 4" beyond the tuning machine. Allow about 3/4" past the bend towards the end of the string, then cut. Use cutters that will allow you to make a clean cut with one compression.

A word about distance beyond the tuning machine. Try to get three wraps of the string on the tuning machine.

As you change strings, your experience will serve you well.

[SuperSnake2012]

I don't even cut my strings, I get like 6 or 7 wraps per post, except the E

[ErnieD]

Is the purpose of the bend to then push that portion of string into the tuning post center and then start the winding of the remaining 4 inches around the post? If so, I am doing this already or am I misunderstanding what I've read?

[mark roberts]

Originally Posted by ErnieD

Is the purpose of the bend to then push that portion of string into the tuning post center and then start the winding of the remaining 4 inches around the post? If so, I am doing this already or am I misunderstanding what I've read?

Yes, and as I understand it, the bend also preserves the relationship of the wrap to the core. I understand that if the wrap/core relationship is damaged...the death of the string is shortly behind.

[joelb79]

You want as much tension across the nut as possible. By cutting the strings to short you loose tension. Try to make the cuts as small as possible. I only cut my E string.. if that matters.

[SuperSnake2012]

Originally Posted by joelb79

You want as much tension across the nut as possible. By cutting the strings to short you loose tension. Try to make the cuts as small as possible. I only cut my E string.. if that matters.

+1... on a Fender bass or a bass modeled after a Fender, there is nothing worse than having a string cut too short... especially the A. I don't cut any of the strings except for the E. On DRs, the strings seem to be longer than my D'Addarios so I have a lot more wraps on those.