Tuning down to B-E-A-D

[guitarhuckster1]

I need to go lower than E in a couple of songs. I don't want to buy a 5-string bass. Could I buy a set of strings for a 5 and use the B, E, A and D strings on an old Tokai Jazz that I have? I obviously have to file the nut and set the intonation. Is there anything else I need to know/do?

[IbanezBass69]

That would work. As long as it is set-up well, that will be perfect. If you are like me and hate throwing away good strings, some brands like Circle K will let you order singles, so you can essentially build a set for that purpose. With the extra tension from the strings, you may need a bit of a truss rod adjustment as well.

[dane22]

You can get a " DTuner" for your E string if you only need the low D. I think you can tune it lower, but not sure how far. I never had one but i'm looking into it for some songs that need the low D. Check it out.

[diehard70]

I have a bass I keep strung B-E-A-D. Like Ibenezbass said; as long as it's set up well, it's a good way alternative to using a fiver for the low stuff.

[entertoexit]

Just got my bass setup this way. The B is always rather floppy on a 4 string though. But you can always uptune to D with a couple of quick spins of the tuner and its tighter. Also, if you play picked and from below the bridge the floppiness is way less noticeable as the string is far tighter by the bridge. Personally I love having the extra lows, but ill probably buy a 5 string soon.