Tuning down: string gauge?

[Mossyrocks]

These days most of the bands I play with are tuned down a half step. I struggle with string tension and tone a lot on my 57 reissue P-Bass at this pitch. My L2000 is better; I guess the neck is that much stiffer, but I'd rather play the P

I use rounds almost all the time, and usually have a low E of 110, but I'm keen to hear what other guys do in this situation.

Some brands must have better tone vs tension than others, but strings are not cheap down here in Aus, so any suggestions?

[MysticMichael]

I'm not a downtuner, so I can't advise you from experience. I would say only that, in addition to considering strings of a heavier than average gauge, you should try strings that have a hexagonal core - which tend to have greater stiffness and higher tension, rather than strings with a round core - which tend to be a bit softer and looser...

MM

[shortstack]

how long is your neck? i play an ibanez RDGR with a 35" scale, and i can downtune to D with no problems. If your strings are INSANELY loose, i would consider using a 130 gauge E string; I just buy packs of strings for 5 string bass and use the lowest four. Of course, you may need to file down your nut a little to get them to fit.

I hope i helped!

[Mossyrocks]

Standard 34" Fender scale.

Certainly being able to work out "by remote" which string brands have more tension than others is what I need.

[bassist4dalord]

I use Ernie Ball .055-.110 Slinky on my Squier Affinity P-Bass, tuned DADG. Tension and sound is pretty great!

[RickenBoogie]

If you're not tuning below a low D, the .110 should be just fine.

[Solarmist]

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

If you're not tuning below a low D, the .110 should be just fine.

+1

I tune DGCF with 50110 set; works great but I might go with a 115 (max) for D also.

[knuckle_head]

I know where you might find .112s and/or .118s