Nut work for heavier gauge strings.

Nikoubis · #1 10-26-2010, 08:50 AM

So, I'll be re-joining my brother's metal band. The material is in D standard, so my G&L will be tuned ADGCF. I pretty much NEED the open A, D and G strings in order to play the lines properly, so staying in BEADG (much as I would prefer that) is not an option.

I plan to use DR DDTs and will get the 55-135 set in order to have a workable tension on the strings. I assume that widening the nut slots is required in order to accommodate the heavier strings (I use 45-125 sets right now).

What I'm wondering is what happens if I decide to go back to standard tuning (and obviously lighter gauge strings). Will this be possible using the nut with the widened slots, or will I have problems with tuning, intonation and/or action on the bass? If that is the case I guess I could keep the current nut and have a completely new one cut, but if possible I would rather avoid that.

Thanks in advance for any help.

mech · #2 10-26-2010, 09:17 AM

I have several 4 string basses strung BEAD (.130-.070) that I occasionally change back to EADG (.105-.050) with no problems. Biggest thing about modifying the nut for larger strings is to not cut the slots deeper, only wider. Color the bottom of the slots with a pencil and stop when the file touches the marks.

mech

Nikoubis · #3 10-26-2010, 10:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mech

I have several 4 string basses strung BEAD (.130-.070) that I occasionally change back to EADG (.105-.050) with no problems. Biggest thing about modifying the nut for larger strings is to not cut the slots deeper, only wider. Color the bottom of the slots with a pencil and stop when the file touches the marks.

mech

That's great info. Thanks!