Strings for C tuning

[yannn]

What would be better for C F A# D#?
Tuning a thick 4 string set like 110-50 down 2 steps or get a 5 string set, don't use the G string and tune up a half step?

[BrutalPigeon]

Take a light 5 string package, like 125. - 45. and use last four strings.

[CopperheadLXXIX]

I keep my 12 tuned to C and use a light gauge B, either .120 or 125. The tension on a heavy gauge E might make it a touch too floppy.

[BassistFreak416]

check out the new DR DDT strings

[Popsicle Pete]

Originally Posted by BrutalPigeon

Take a light 5 string package, like 125. - 45. and use last four strings.

Beat me to the punch. This is exactly what I did in Embalmer.

[Greevus]

Musician's Gear from Musiciansfriend.com 5 string set and lose the G. .130-.105-.85-.65
and only like $8/set. I've used every big brand through the years and these things sound and feel just as good to me.

[Burtoneadg]

when i was in a death metal band I used GHS strings, they have a set where the E is a 115 and it was perfect for me.

[Popsicle Pete]

Originally Posted by Burtoneadg

when i was in a death metal band I used GHS strings, they have a set where the E is a 115 and it was perfect for me.

For some reason, 115 gauge strings always seem to be in short supply. Fortunately for me the band I just joined has an endorsement with LaBella strings, so I can get pretty much whatever I need.

[Broadbent]

Originally Posted by BassistFreak416

check out the new DR DDT strings

This is fantastic for drop tuned instruments. No more mixing and matching sets trying for the right tensions. Good job DR!

[knuckle_head]

Originally Posted by Broadbent

This is fantastic for drop tuned instruments. No more mixing and matching sets trying for the right tensions. Good job DR!

Dropped standard tunings, yes. Not drop tuned.

[Broadbent]

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

Dropped standard tunings, yes. Not drop tuned.

What?

[knuckle_head]

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

Dropped standard tunings, yes. Not drop tuned.

The DDT sets are for dropping the entire set down in register in traditional 4ths - that is how they are balanced based on the gauges in their sets - not for dropping the lowest string a whole step down in addition.

[Burlington]

DDTs are awesome!!

[Broadbent]

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

The DDT sets are for dropping the entire set down in register in traditional 4ths - that is how they are balanced based on the gauges in their sets - not for dropping the lowest string a whole step down in addition.

I wasn't aware there was a difference. Anything lower than EADG is dropped tuned to me.

[spaz21387]

yea i was looking at those ddt sets today on guitar centers website and for some reason the price of all bass strings went up to 35$ and up the new ddt ones were 50 a set...

[knuckle_head]

Originally Posted by Broadbent

I wasn't aware there was a difference. Anything lower than EADG is dropped tuned to me.

There is lowered tuning and drop tuned.

Standard strings are tuned in 4ths. Lowered tunings retain this relationship between strings but let you drop the pitch they are tuned to.

A drop tuned set has just the lowest string tuned a whole step lower than the normal interval - it's a 5th relationship between the lowest string and the immediately adjacent string, with the balance of the set having 4ths intervals.

DDT sets are meant for standard intervals (4ths), but lowered in pitch as a set. DDT stands for Drop Down Tuning, not drop tuning.

I am glad to see another manufacturer provide for experimentation, and I am glad as well that these sets are working for drop tuners. But the DDT string sets are not balanced for drop tuning - there are better solutions.

[bassphreak]

^^good distinction and description^^

I also made the false assumption that DDT would be a good option for drop-c. If the tension isn't right it may more set up than other options.