Scared of changing strings

[bhass]

When I buy new strings for my bass, I have always used the same type and gauge because I'm completely paranoid of neck warping. (I get a bit of buzz on my neck due to sloppy technique and that usually kicks off the paranoia)

I currently use roundwound 45-100 from the local store. I am going out to buy new strings in a few days and I fancy trying some flatwound ones. They have nicer feel, and I won't need to spend as much money replacing them (I'm broke). Not to mention I'd like to check out the tone.

If their gauge is 45-105 or above, and it is a different brand, will I have to adjust anything or have it set up?

[fishtx]

if you change gauge, you should check the intonation...

[paganjack]

read about setups. if you are careful you have nothing to worry about while doing your own. small string gauge differences shouldn't really make a big difference anyway. For flatwounds you may need to tighten your neck, as some of them have higher tension than rounds.

learning how to adjust your truss rod and intonation is incredibly simple, can save you wads of cash and will improve your knowledge of your instrument.

my US$.02

[bassbully]

You just might have to adjust your neck after installing flats. Depending on what brand you use and the tension. Flats are know to have more tension than say rounds and pull up on the neck or add relief. TI jazz rounds are quite different than most. They have less tension and i had to add relief to the neck to reduce buzz since they dont pull on the neck.

I think you are getting excited over the neck issue which is really not a big deal. Go TB setup forum and look up the sticky on settting up a bass neck. If you dont feel right doing it take it to a shop. Neck adjustments is something every bass player should learn to save $. It happens and is part of the game.

[bhass]

Well it looks like I'll be buying them anyway and giving myself a lesson on neck adjustments. I'm glad I asked, because I don't have enough cash for a set up at the local store & to stay alive.

[Mushroo]

Hi Bhass,
There is a difference between small adjustments to your neck vs. the neck "warping". Changing from one type of string to another might require some adjustments, but it won't damage your neck.

There are really only four places you can adjust the setup of your bass: the truss rod, the bridge saddle height (up/down), the bridge intonation (forward/backward), and the nut. Changes to your nut are a last resort (they can't be easily reversed), but the other three are all part of normal bass maintenance. There are some great setup guides on these forums. Most likely, you won't need anything more than a small turn of the truss rod and an intonation adjustment. ps Flatwounds are great. Good luck!