Strings For Lower Tunings (Metal)

Lukas M · #1 06-18-2008, 12:16 AM

Well, 1st off i did some reading on Strings to get an idea but i thought its better off to ask people too.

I'm looking for a good string Gauge and Brand For Tunings from Eb - Drop C. I have a LTD ax 404 (mahogany) bass and i play with my fingers. Im looking for a tone some what like David elfesons(megadeth) like here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQt3h...eature=related i really like Tone like this.

Failing this im really open to string ideas For standard tunings too i have been using DR's but would like a change.

Any thoughts or ideas?

EDIT: also i really have only had one type so im open to the idea of Flat or round wound strings too.

Arpeggiator · #2 06-18-2008, 02:22 AM

hmm, thats a bit trick eb to drop c is a big range i reckon you would want a bit heavier than standard (105-45) maybye a 115 E string your on about full drop tuning I.e DGCF or CGCF etc... as for brand i relly like the elite rounds i put on my 5 not to bright but nice and fat. also with relevence to the tone, sounds like you should cut the bass and boost the treble slightly (others correct me if i am wrong.)

trb6pJM2 · #3 06-18-2008, 03:10 AM

well, for drop C tuning, i would just use a BEAD set TBQH, tuning from E to C constantly will just wreak havoc on your neck and eventually the bass could become unplayable.

Parabolic Box · #4 06-18-2008, 03:31 AM

Yeah, a BEAD set sounds like the best idea.

crazyguy832 · #5 06-18-2008, 11:05 AM

Agreed!

Play BEAD!

Just don't buy a BEAD set of strings and try tuning CGCF! You're liable to break something!

Something like a .115 "E" string though and a 0.6 "G" would work for downtuning.

Lukas M · #6 06-18-2008, 12:15 PM

Alright, thanks guys

PauBass · #7 06-18-2008, 01:07 PM

Which manufacturer does 115 "E" strings?

bassman1185 · #8 06-18-2008, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PauBass

Which manufacturer does 115 "E" strings?

GHS has a set that runs from .055 to .115, and Ernie Ball sells individual .115 strings.

I have tuned to drop C for a few years. My preference is either .050-.110 DR Hi-Beams or Black Beauties or Ernie Ball Power Slinkies (.055-.110).

ErebusBass · #9 06-18-2008, 01:47 PM

I play metal, and tune ADGCF. I play DR Lo-riders (130-105-85-65-45). I find that the .105 handles a D very well (that is with a 35" scale neck BTW). I like how it's a little bit looser than your average E string, gives it a unique feel and tone. If you're tuning to C you might want something a little bit heavier, .110 should do it.