5 String Tuning on a 4 String?

Lickie · #1 07-06-2009, 01:18 AM

Hey guys,

I dunno if this has been asked before but I was wondering if there would be any problems replacing the strings on a 4 string (The Nikki Sixx sign. Epiphone to be exact) with the bottom 4 strings of a 5 string? BEAD. Has anyone tried this? and would it damage the neck because of the different tension or anything like that?

bassteban · #2 07-06-2009, 01:24 AM

Here: http://www.talkbass.com/forum/search...earchid=577657
Read.

Lickie · #3 07-06-2009, 02:14 AM

That link isnt working for me? This message pops up

"Sorry - no matches. NOTE, that the forum search ignores words that are under 3 characters long, or extremely popular words like "bass" and "guitar".

Alternatively, try the powerful TalkBass Google search option available on the Advanced Search page. "

GeoffByrne · #4 07-06-2009, 03:45 AM

+1 the above.

However, this BEAD subject has been done to death here - try a search on BEAD.

walterw · #5 07-06-2009, 09:46 PM

the short answer is BEAD works just fine, except you have to get the nut slots widened or the strings will bind up, even to the point of breaking the corners of the nut off.

bassteban · #6 07-06-2009, 10:12 PM

That's odd- it worked for me yesterday but no longer. Ah well- do a search in *all topics* w/BEAD in the title, all open foums. That's what I did.

T-Bird · #7 07-06-2009, 11:52 PM

Hi.

Like said, discussed many times, but as every instrument tend to behave a bit diffrently, always better to ask first IMHO.

IME You can't, not with the 3-point oil rig bridge in the original position.
I tried it with the Standard, but shouldn't be that different with Yours.

You'll have the intonation way off for the B-string.

Using exposed core B-strings would be the solution if You also lower the slots for the E, A & D saddles. Makes the mod un-reversible though, unless You buy extra saddles.

No damage for the neck or any other parts of the bass.

Regards
Sam