String Tunings and String Kinds help.

[5str]

Well I have recently changed my strings and put the Drop standar on my bass guitar. So the tuning now is D-G-C-F.
But I also play with C-G-C-F tuning, but the D string becomes floppy when I tune to C.

I have now decided to change the lowest string. But I don't know the name of the string I want to change. I mean the 1 step down strings are called Drop Standar. For the C-G-C-F tuning, what's the name of the strings (either the whole set name or the lowest string name).

And the final question. If I get low tuning strings, will I be able to tune to higher pitches? Examples:
1) I have D-G-C-F. Will I be able to tune to E-A-D-G without having problems with my bass guitar (neck or other problems)?
2) I have C-G-C-F. Will I be able to tune the lowest string from C to D without having problems with my bass guitar (neck or other problems)?

[LiamPodmore]

I Use Ernie Ball Power Slinky and i can go into EADG, DGCF an CGCF with no problems, Another thing to consider is getting your bass set up so that when you put your D string in C it isnt as floppy

[5str]

But don't I need Drop Standar strings or something like that?

[GianGian]

You won't be able to use all these tunings in the same bass without making some adjustments. I mean, you can do it, but the neck will be bowed, or intonation will be horrible, or both.
Regarding the strings, you just need to find a set that will have the tension that you like in the tuning that you use, no secret really. I have not heard about strings that are made with a certain alternative tune in mind. I would just get some heavy gauge, like 110-55 or the likes and see what happens. Tension charts can also be useful.

[5str]

I do not want all these tunings. Actually I only use mostly D-G-C-F and then C-G-C-F. I just want to know in what name to ask for that low C string, and if I buy one is there going to be a bow on the neck if I tune it to D.

[LiamPodmore]

No you don't need a certain type of strings, i never did anyway when i used those 3 tunings, now i just play a 5 and its much simpler

[5str]

Also, D-G-C-F isn't called "Drop Standard," it's just "D" or "D Standard." C-G-C-F is "Drop C."[/quote]

Yeah I was not talking about the tunings but about the strings. And the strings recommended for D-G-C-F tuning are called Drop Standard.

[5str]

And excuse my unawareness but what are all these numbers? I've seen them many times but can't really understand their purpose.

[5str]

I don't know by who exactly but I am sure I have heard it many times by basssists and guitar/bass specialists. Ok I might be wrong.

[5str]

And someone told me that I should use a 130-135 gauge for Drop C tuning (for the low C string).

[knuckle_head]

I would suggest for DGCF tuning; .112 .084 .061 .043

For drop C tuning I'd recommend; .124 .084 .061 .043

If you want to switch between them and not be too far out on either one; .118 .084 .061 .043

[rockstarbassist]

On a quality bass, you technically could get by having a standard E tuned bass tuned down a half step (EbAbDbGb-I've done this with my NS2 for years) but for a full step and especially drop C, I'd want a different bass as it just isn't going to stay intonated and sound right going that far down.

.115 is the lowest I'd go to Drop C, and even then that's pushing it. .120+ is gonna be best.

[5str]

Originally Posted by Thunder Pulse

A 135 would be pushing it when you tuned the low string up to D.

You don't have to buy a complete set of strings either; You can go online and put together a custom set by buying individual strings, it'll probably just cost a bit more. For C/D-G-C-F tuning I'd go with 50-70-90-125/130.

http://store.daddario.com/category/1..._Scale_Singles

Thank you very much. This was too helpful especially the last sentence. Thank you very much, and all of you guys for your time and opinions.