String Gauge for Fretless 6

[bigjames]

Hey, I am about to buy a new set of strings for my fretless 6. I have tried several different brands and types over the years and settled on D'Addario EXL170-6. They are Nickel Plated Round Wounds (.032/.045/.065/.080/.100/.130) and called "soft gauge". I really like the feel of these strings. I was just about to order a set through an online retailer and noticed another gauge of the same strings EXL165-6 (.032/.045/.065/.085/.105/.135). Other than the obvious larger gauge on the low strings, what am I going to notice if I get this other set? Will tension be different? Is a heavier gauge ok for fretless? What do others like on their fretless electrics? I am game to try this, but I am wondering if there are any general rules for fretless that I may not be aware of?

Thanks,

[SLaPiNFuNK]

tension will be slightly different...

heavier gauge is fine on a frettles... it just wont get that singing tone as much since the strings are not going to wobble as much...

the thinner the gauge, the more twang / singing there is...

atleast thats what I find on my basses...

i use ken smith rock masters or slap masters on mine...

[bigjames]

What gauge do you use on your basses? I am not sure I would notice/be bothered by the less "singing tone" on the lower strings...my bass has nice singing tone on the top 3 strings as it is and the gauges of the top strings stays the same between the two sets.

Thanks for your reply...

[SLaPiNFuNK]

Not sure... Ill check when I get home...

The lower strings have more of a growl... atleast on my bass...

The only other frettless basses I have played are 4 strings...

[MysticMichael]

All other things being equal, I like light-gauge strings on a fretless. I would go even lighter than you've proposed - something like .032-.040-.060-.080-.100-.125.

Lighter-gauge strings tend to be more expressive. At the end of the day, isn't that really what you want from a fretless?

MM