8 string bass string help?

[hudsonferro]

Hey guys, so I've recently made the jump from the six string to the eight string and im uncovering some new complexities I didn't expect. Im needing to buy new strings for it( its a Galveston ub8000) and I keep hearing people talk about tension. I have not a clue about tension and how it plays into the string choice or how to determine which strings will work. I've talked with circle k strings and theirs wont work due to the thru body design. Any help or info about how to determine the right kind of strings or how tension works would be helpful! Thanks! !!!!!!

[KeithAlanK]

Heavier gauge strings have to be tuned to a higher tension to reach the correct pitch compared to thinner strings.
Because there are also octave strings on an 8 (or 12), higher tension not only puts more strain on the neck + trussrod, it also makes it harder to play.

If you like the feel of a .105 E on a 4-string, you'll probably be better off with a .095 E on an 8, for example.

[hudsonferro]

Wow that makes perfect sense! Thanks!

[CopperheadLXXIX]

Originally Posted by KeithAlanK

Heavier gauge strings have to be tuned to a higher tension to reach the correct pitch compared to thinner strings.
Because there are also octave strings on an 8 (or 12), higher tension not only puts more strain on the neck + trussrod, it also makes it harder to play.

If you like the feel of a .105 E on a 4-string, you'll probably be better off with a .095 E on an 8, for example.

Keith, pretty sure the OP is talking about an 8 string ERB (based on the model # provided), not an 8 string with octaves.

[KeithAlanK]

Originally Posted by CopperheadLXXIX

Keith, pretty sure the OP is talking about an 8 string ERB (based on the model # provided), not an 8 string with octaves.

So he is--thanks for catching my mistake.

With the wider neck of an ERB being better able to handle it, the added tension of the 4 extra strings is less of an issue.