strings gauge vs low action

[nicopiano]

Hi,

A luthier told me that it's easier to get very low action without too much buzz on a bass with bigger gauge strings.

Is that true?

What is your experience about it?

Thank you,

[The Birdman]

It would be logical, if one assumes the same relief and action settings for all gauge strings, since the larger strings shouldn't flex as much when they vibrate.

Roger

[JimmyM]

It's true to a certain extent because they'll be stiffer, but I don't care...I'll take my puny strings with low action any day

[soulman969]

Originally Posted by nicopiano

Hi,

A luthier told me that it's easier to get very low action without too much buzz on a bass with bigger gauge strings.

Is that true?

What is your experience about it?

Thank you,

Yes in general it probably is true but some basses will take a very low action even with lighter string gauges. Neck relief, neck angle, fret height and condition, the bridge, and the type of string will have an effect as well.

I think you can run out of adjustment range on any bass but with a great set up it's a lot lower than some would imagine.

[nicopiano]

Thank you!