Standard B Tuning - Light strings?

[Xeperu]

NOTE: Didn't know where to post this. Mods, feel free to move this if need be.

I am wanting to get my 4 strings bass tuned to standard B. I went to the shop to get some advice and perhaps a price for a setup if needed to accommodate lower tuning.

When I asked what gauge of strings are needed, he said normal gauges as well as .95 - .40 can also work.

This had a me a little skeptical. Isn't the normal procedure for getting a 4 string to drop B is to just get a 5 string set and throw away the highest string (G)? And if I can use normal or even lighter strings, how adverse would the difference be in terms of playability and looseness?

I play metal, to rock, to blues, etc. I'm always aiming for the easiest playing setup because I do need it sometimes for playing fast runs.

Your help would be appreciated.

[anthowl]

the low B string on a standard set of fives is about .130/.135.
95 would be far too loose IMO.

if you wanted a lighter gauge for that you could try and find a set around .120 perhaps? some brands probably actually make a 'light 5 string' set.

[JustDavid]

Strings forum would be better than Setup/Repair forum.

& never go back to that shop again.

[The modifier]

A .125 B also known as "super lights" gauge NOT REGULAR LIGHT on Daddario's 5 string sets should serve you fine as you wont need to file out the nut as much, and I didn't have to drill the bridge hole or saddle any bigger for a .125 on my four string, or you can always use a .115 E which wont be too floppy I think fender makes a 4 string set with a .115 E string.

[fretlessman71]

Right. Find the heaviest 4-string set you can, and see how that does for ya.

It's really a matter of personal preference - you COULD make a very light gauge work, but you'd have to have high action and a lot of relief in the neck, and an extremely light touch. Prolly not the way you want to go.

[Xeperu]

Ok, thanks for everyones advice. I will probably end up getting a 5 string set and just apply to my 4 string.