string thickness

[Mattbass97]

what gauge of string does what?

[AmadeusXeno]

Higher gauge strings give more tension and lower gauge strings give less tension. Tone does change slightly with a diffent gauge, but not so much that you really need to worry. Some string manufacturers are making strings for down tuning with standard gauges though. They do this by using a thicker core wire. Hope this helps some.

[UncleMattGuy]

Don't forget to set up your bass when you switch string gauges !!

[Mattbass97]

thanks but id also like to know what tension produces what sound difference?

[bassteban]

IME tension has more effect on feel than tone.

[Matt Lake]

Some people like heavier gauges because it sound a little fatter/thicker/deeper to them. Also lower tension strings to buzz easier if you have low action. I had to raise my action a little when I went to DR sunbeams. They are lower tension round core instead of hex core(higher tension) and are easier to fret but still a sweet full sound. The raised heighth doesn't bother me since the tension is lower.

[Marton]

Tension is more about technique and feel than sound, IMO. I play with light-gauge strings, and I never had any problems about sounding too thin or such.

[Mattbass97]

thanka guys just what i wanted to know!

[Mattbass97]

thanks**

[winegamd]

Heavier string gauges have higher fundamental content, while lighter gauges have more overtone and harmonics. What this means is heavier strings are usually have a smoother tone while lighter strings have more growl. This tone variation is a result of the string tension. Also, the lower tension of a lighter gauge has a snappier transient when plucking which has the impression of a stronger attack.