using 5 string strings for 4 string bass

shortstack · #1 02-03-2010, 02:44 PM

hello. I wasn't quite sure about this, but i find that i don't use my G string very often so i was thinking...could i put the lowest 4 strings of a set of strings for 5 string bass on my 4 string bass? i would tune it B-E-A-D, and maybe sometimes up half a step from that (assuming that the tension is bearable). opinions? would this work/be a feasible option for me? and no, i can't get a 5 string bass, so don't mention it.

Govier966 · #2 02-03-2010, 02:51 PM

people do this a lot, you may have to widen the holes at the bridge and cut a nut for bead tuning. Perhaps you can just get very light 5 string bass strings...

knuckle_head · #3 02-03-2010, 02:53 PM

There are B E A D 4 string sets to be had.

ERIC31 · #4 02-03-2010, 02:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Govier966

people do this a lot, you may have to widen the holes at the bridge and cut a nut for bead tuning. Perhaps you can just get very light 5 string bass strings...

+1. You should also have your bass truss rod adjusted for that as well.

I went the other way.....I came to the conclusion that a low B was very unnecessary for what I play so I restrung my 5er to E A D G C. It's great, I like it much better and it suits the music I play.

Have fun!

shortstack · #5 02-03-2010, 02:55 PM

i just did it, but it sounds fine and the intonation is good. i filed down the nuts a tiny bit, and the strings fit perfectly. why would i need to adjust the truss rod?

ERIC31 · #6 02-03-2010, 02:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shortstack

i just did it, but it sounds fine and the intonation is good. i filed down the nuts a tiny bit, and the strings fit perfectly. why would i need to adjust the truss rod?

That's only if you needed to. Sometimes people have trouble with fret rattle and buzzing. Obviously you didn't so you are good to go!

bassteban · #7 02-03-2010, 03:01 PM

Here, let me help: http://www.talkbass.com/forum/search...archid=2432469

MNAirHead · #8 02-03-2010, 03:06 PM

yes.. my favorite 4 string tuning... your band mates will love you

PM me if you have questions

jasonmasters · #9 02-04-2010, 11:58 AM

funny, I just tried this the other day but immediately realized how much I missed my G string. I'll save the low B for when I can get a 7 string =p

JustDavid · #10 02-04-2010, 04:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shortstack

why would i need to adjust the truss rod?

Because a string change usually equals a string tension change; the truss rod adjustment restores the neck relief to where it was.

kencasino · #11 02-07-2010, 01:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jasonmasters

funny, I just tried this the other day but immediately realized how much I missed my G string. I'll save the low B for when I can get a 7 string =p

If you have not played a 5er, you will have to get used to the BEAD so don't give it up. My opinion (there have been multiple threads on this) of why I like 5 vs 4 is that it allows me to play up the neck better, especially in keys of e and a, and use less open strings. I am modding a SX-P bass and will be using the BEAD, since I could not find a 5 string that I wanted to mod for a reasonable price. Lately, when I play I have been trying to remember how much I use the G on my fiver, and it is not much.