Some help with string gauge (detuning)

LaklandBass · #1 11-22-2010, 09:59 AM

So Im playing a Stringray 5 HH....
My usual strings are DR HiBeams 45-130

However for my new band Im tuning to A,C,G,C,F

Any suggestions for keeping a relatively normal tension?

Im thinking somewhere in the ballpark of 50, 70, 90, 110, 132

55,75,95,115,135 from the DR DDT strings sounds nice for being sold in a set but i think it might be a tad too thick.

However Id like to stay away from filing the nut if at all possible.

FunkMetalBass · #2 11-22-2010, 10:23 AM

If you're tuning down a whole step, the .005 - .010 increase is necessary to keep your tension relatively similar.

You probably wont notice a difference, and you could probably fit up to a .150 in your B-string slot without worrying about filing the nut.

LaklandBass · #3 11-22-2010, 10:46 AM

thats what im thinking. even with how low im tuned down right now with 45-130 the 1st and 2nd strings arent that much different.... its the other 3 that have a little more clank than i desire

knuckle_head · #4 11-22-2010, 01:12 PM

Looks to me like drop C on the treble side 4 with A underneath, yes?

Look for gauges similar to;

.150 .124 .084 .061 .043

iiipopes · #5 11-22-2010, 01:19 PM

Consult the D'Addario tension pdf that you can download. No, it won't be exact, but that's not what you're looking for. Find the chart for the general type of string you use: nickel plate, stainless, flat, etc., then cross reference your current gauge to the standard tuning to find what the tension is. Whatever that tension is, then go to the note you want to tune to, and follow along the lines until you find the gauge of string that has the closest tension rating to the reference. That will help you find a "best fit" for your altered tunings.

Note that as string diameter increases, that flexibility decreases, so the string may not have all the overtone structure as the conventional string diameter and tuning. In other words, the low A may start getting clunky, regardless of what gauge or string type you use.

ixlramp · #6 11-22-2010, 03:00 PM

D'Addario tension chart pdf. Since you're using DR Hi-Beams steel roundwound use the Prosteels chart.

Since it's a non-fourths tuning I recommend building a set from singles to avoid erratically varying tension across the strings. This way you can also create a tension-balanced set with similar tensions on each string.

If you want to avoid filing the nut I'm guessing .135 and .110 will be the largest gauges that will fit in the B and E slots. Tuned to A and C these gauges will be low tension, somewhat floppy and flubby sounding. Balancing the tension across the set I came up with this ...

F .040 27 (or unbalanced .045 33)
C .055 28 (or unbalanced .060 35)
G .075 28 (or unbalanced .080 32)
C .110 28
A .135 26 pounds of tension

This is a low tension set though. If you want a normal tension you will have to file out the 2 lowest nut slots for thicker strings, I recommend at least a .145 A and a .120 C for a really good tone. If you go with thicker gauges I recommend buying Circle K Strings single strings. They are excellent strings for low tunings.

LaklandBass · #7 11-22-2010, 09:20 PM

^ Thanks a whole bunch, i really appreciate your helping me out with this. I think thats what ill end up doing. earlier today I ordered a 115 and 135 for the C and A strings just to get an idea of whats what. Circle K is probably what Ill go with but Ill admit the prices weren't looking so great as I added everything up.
I think I might be better off trying to find a 4 string set that gets close and then picking up a single string for the low A

Plstrns · #8 11-22-2010, 09:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LaklandBass

^ Thanks a whole bunch, i really appreciate your helping me out with this. I think thats what ill end up doing. earlier today I ordered a 115 and 135 for the C and A strings just to get an idea of whats what. Circle K is probably what Ill go with but Ill admit the prices weren't looking so great as I added everything up.
I think I might be better off trying to find a 4 string set that gets close and then picking up a single string for the low A

Try Ken Smith Metal Master Heavy, around $20.

I have Circle K's set mentioned above, really good strings with the best B string tuned to A or otherwise I've ever played.

DAd's EPS230's + a .145 are ok. They worked well for a heavy $20 set.

You'll need a 145 minimum to play an A up the neck.

knuckle_head · #9 11-22-2010, 11:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

Looks to me like drop C on the treble side 4 with A underneath, yes?

Look for gauges similar to;

.150 .124 .084 .061 .043

Quote:

Originally Posted by LaklandBass

I think I might be better off trying to find a 4 string set that gets close and then picking up a single string for the low A

That's what the above is; a Drop tuned 4 string set and a single .150

ixlramp · #10 11-23-2010, 12:56 PM

If you decide to file out the 2 lowest nut slots, it can be done DIY. A good tip is to wrap a fine-grain sandpaper around the string you want to use. File carefully and slowly, parallel to the floor of the slot, and make sure not to contact the floor of the slot, to avoid deepening it.

(Random idea - tuning CGCFBb, since the low A string only gives you 3 extra notes. This way you don't need to file the slots and can use tight punchy gauges like a .130 for the C. Plus you get some extra high range.)