6 String Tuning

[althesockmaker]

Hi there!
I recently upgraded from a 5 to a 6 string bass, so I'm currently in that sorta...overprotective stage when you spend a lot of cash on an instrument.
My band are wanting to play some tunes in drop b tuning (B-F♯-B-E-G♯-C♯). I've only recently started using dropped tunings and I'm wondering - is there any chance this could damage my bass? It's currently tuned standard b (b-e-a etc)!
Thanks dudes!!

I just realised I posted this in the wrong place...could someone move it for me please sorry >_<

[T-Bird]

Hi.

Welcome to TalkBass althesockmaker.

Since 6ers usually have two truss rods, "uneven tension" tunings shouldn't pose any problems.

The "standard" tunings are standard just on the standard string sets point of view, in order to equalize the feel of the strings.

Regards
Sam

[althesockmaker]

Thanks dude - just heard from my guitarist that the plan has changed and its looking like e1 tuning that sounds awesomely fun! Good to know I can do that for the future though!!

[El-Bob]

so, to put a sixer in drop B with standard strings would involve tuning the 5 highest strings up a whole step. This isn't a problem for your neck (no time like the present to learn how to use the truss rods! they're there for a reason ), but I would be concerned about standard strings surviving at that tension. I foresee broken strings unless you go with a much lighter gauge for those higher strings. Something to consider if you ever do decide to use that tuning (and if you do, may I recommend circle K strings? I just started using them and am extremely impressed!)

[althesockmaker]

talking of strings...does anybody know a source (in uk) of extra heavy gauge strings? i was looking at .175 before but can't find the site that was selling the set anywhere!! current strings are standard with my bass (LTD) and I won't even humour them by trying to go any lower than b!

[Mayers]

Originally Posted by althesockmaker

Hi there!
I recently upgraded from a 5 to a 6 string bass, so I'm currently in that sorta...overprotective stage when you spend a lot of cash on an instrument.
My band are wanting to play some tunes in drop b tuning (B-F♯-B-E-G♯-C♯). I've only recently started using dropped tunings and I'm wondering - is there any chance this could damage my bass? It's currently tuned standard b (b-e-a etc)!
Thanks dudes!!

I just realised I posted this in the wrong place...could someone move it for me please sorry >_<

Well like other have stated, no problem at all with down tuned or uptune. In your case with a 6 strings bass ... you uptune instead of downtune.