Switching For A Specific Project

[WordIsBorn79]

Hi Ladies & Germs,

I've played a Music Man 5-string with Ernie Ball Power Slinky strings (50-135) for several years. I currently am the bassist in a heavy metal, and a country band (no jokes). The playability and sound from the combo of both the bass and stings has done me very well in both bands over the years.

In July, the heavy metal band is going back into the studio to record our second LP. On this album, I am using my low B string a bit more with certain notes. So, before I get the bass set up prior to recording, I wanted to put a lighter gage of strings on. However, here's the issue: I don't want the low E and B string to sound wimpy, but at the same time, provide a bit more clarity.

The problem with my current set up is that the low B string is considerably louder than all other strings, in addition to the fact that the B and E strings (B especially) can sound slightly muddy when playing fast (metal). However, for live performances, this was never an issue. I want to have a good tone going into the studio so there is as little doctoring up as needed.

[Joe Smithberger]

Maybe you just need to raise the B bridge saddle a bit. With all 6 of the 5 strings I have owned over the past 10 years, the tone and volume of the B depended on the break angle over the bridge and the distance from the pickup. If you have good balance across the other strings, the saddle height is the only thing left to adjust.

Another option is to look at a more balanced set like the Circle K's. However, that would be a more involved setup change as the a, E, and B are tapered.