Downtuning a Shortscale

blackjackdavey · #1 10-29-2009, 09:11 PM

Hey, I just recently bought a 70's Univox Hi-Flyer Shortscale bass. I normally play exclusiveyly tuned a half-step down, sometimes with the E dropped down further to Db, but I'm finding some difficulty with the shortscale. I'm wondering what kind of string guages/setup I should use to improve the overall playability, sound, and tuning.

walterw · #2 10-29-2009, 10:00 PM

you can go a little thicker, but short scales aren't so good for down-tuning. the shorter scale makes it behave like you're already tuned down when you're in standard.

blackjackdavey · #3 10-30-2009, 07:47 AM

Ok, thanks Walter. Im unsure what string gauges are currently on it, but what heavier guages would you recommend? And is it possible to get the bass set up so as to increase string tension and raise the action? And would doing so help at all? Thanks

grisezd · #4 10-30-2009, 10:09 PM

How about just buying a 5 string set and installing the BEAD. Then you'd be way low. Ka-chungggggg. Being shortscale you could probably get away with tuning that B up to your D flat, especially if you got "light" 5 string strings.

R. Laevinus · #5 10-30-2009, 10:19 PM

^ +1.

honestjohnny · #6 10-30-2009, 10:36 PM

Yes, heavy gauge strings are a good first step. Also, high action. Trust me, it won't feel as high on a shorty as it would on a standard. Try the high action first.

blackjackdavey · #7 11-10-2009, 08:29 PM

Alright, thanks everyone so much for all of the help, I'll be sure to try these out and Ill let you know how it turns out.