If I change my strings, do I need to raise my action?

[BurtBassman]

I just got a brand new Schecter Stilleto Elite 4, along with some DR Lo-Riders. I want to out the DRs on, but would I need to raise the action afterwards? I don't want a lot of clicking.

[tplyons]

You may or may not depending on different tension between string sets.

Put 'em on, and adjust accordingly.

[The Dave]

When I put my D'Addario Half Rounds on my Jazz, the tension was a lot higher than the Fender 7250s or whatever they were. The higher tension allowed me to lower them quite a bit without buzz. I highly recommend them.
So, as the man said, it depends on the strings.

[excane]

You might have to do a little tweaking to the action if the new strings are different gauge and depending on string tension.
What strings are on the bass now and does it give you a sound you're happy with? (no clacking as you said)

[GlennW]

If the new strings give a different tension the neck relief will change. Check your relief before changing strings so you'll have a reference point. I'd adjust that first before changing anything at the bridge/saddles.

[ggunn]

Originally Posted by GlennW

If the new strings give a different tension the neck relief will change. Check your relief before changing strings so you'll have a reference point. I'd adjust that first before changing anything at the bridge/saddles.

Yes, and it's not as simple as just comparing the gauges of the strings and counting on the thicker strings to have more tension. I recently changed from half rounds to full rounds of the same gauge and I had to adjust the truss rods to get rid of fret noise that the change introduced.

[jumbosilverette]

I just swapped out some flats for rounds on my j bass and the neck tension improved, without adjusting the saddles or the truss rod. I guess string tension accounted for that.

[Stox]

Originally Posted by GlennW

If the new strings give a different tension the neck relief will change. Check your relief before changing strings so you'll have a reference point. I'd adjust that first before changing anything at the bridge/saddles.

Spot on, Lo Riders are high tension with a hex core. You will probably find that a truss rod adjustment is all you need, be careful though and if unsure - take it to a tech.

[embellisher]

Any time you change strings, it is going to require at a least a little tweaking. If you change to a different brand, gauge, or type, you really need to do a Setup, which is where I am moving this.

[EADG mx]

Depending on the tension change, you might even be able to lower them.