Recommend a 5 string set.

[Mike M.]

Okay, I have two 5 string basses: an MIM Fender and an Ibanez SR505. Both basses have the same 34" scale length. I use Elixers on the Ibanez and the string tension is perfect for that bass. Bordering towards the tight side but very comfortable to play. No flop on the low B at all.

I went from Fender strings to Clear Tones on my Fender and thought I'd try the same set of Elixers that I use on my Ibanez. While they sound very good and even (better than the Clear tones) the low B and E don't feel as tight as they do on my Ibanez. The G, D and A strings feel a bit tighter than the Clear Tones did, but the low B and E don't feel any differant than before, which is a tad floopy.

The relief is good and the neck on my Fender seems to be pretty solid as well. I was hoping to get the same kind of string tension on my Fender like the Ibanez has but it didn't happen as I had hoped.

So for all of you string experts out there, what 5 string set would you recommend I try on my Fender to get that tighter low B and E that I'm looking for?

Thanks for your time.

[testing1two]

You can make your own set from individual strings from D'Addario and a few other manufacturers (browse www.juststrings.com as they have tension measurements for some of the major brands). Or you can order a set of CircleK strings which offer "matched tension" sets.