This is probably a stupid idea, but...

I bought a 6-string MTD a few years back. Never really learned my way around it, and I constantly lost track of the notes when getting up high (which is kind of the point with a 6-string bass, right?).

For a while, I tried tuning it B-B, so the highest string would be like the second highest string on a guitar (I play guitar as well). It was better, but eventually I sold the bass...

Now, I have started to wonder if I should give it another shot. BUT I don't imagine that I will ever get my mind around a high C-string. Yeah, I know if you put enough practicing into it, anything is possible, but I know that's not gonna happen in this case

SO, this is where I am now.

1) Should I get a 5-string bass and tune it EADGB? That would be the 'easy' solution as I am used to handling 5-strings, and this tuning is pretty normal.

2) OR would it be possible to get a 6-string and tune it EADGBE. Yes, like a guitar - only lower

3) This is a stupid idea, and I should just get a guitar - and maybe an octave pedal... :scowl:

The 2. solution would be great with all the high notes, AND navigation would be a breeze. But the main problem would praobably be to find a proper high E-string. gauge-wise, I guess a low E-string for a guitar would be OK, but it would probably be far too short.

Also, does anyone know what gauge strings for a 7-string have (BEADGCF)? (and where to get them?)

Scatterblak said:

I ran this tuning on a Conklin BDGT-7 for a while - tried a lot of strings - mixing sets, etc - finally settled on these:

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Dean-Markley-SR2000-7String-Bass-Strings?sku=101005

Quite good, last a good while, sound kind of rotosound-ish, ina good way. You can get them at Amazon or at the link above. If you're anywhere near NAshville, I've got a couple of sets left over I'll give you.

Peace!

Click to expand...

Hey, thanks so much for the links - and the string offer Unfortunately, I live in Denmark, but thanks anyway!!!

It seems like the E-E idea may be possible after all. Now, I only need the bass ;-)

Marton said:

Fender Bass VI is tuned exactly like that, maybe it's what you need ?

Edit : search for "extended range guitar" on rondo music, they make some kind-of bass VI if you want to try one without paying $2000...

Click to expand...

Yeah, i know of the VI, but I think it's a litte 'too guitarish' - especially the tight strin spacing and sort scale

azzyrazzy said:

Whichever way you go, I'd recommend practising/learning notes in stead of trying to get around that, with all your might

Click to expand...

Well, as I stated in the OP, this will not happen in this particular case

I have spent plenty of time practicing - but that was in a period of my life when I actually had the time (primarily, when I studied at the conservatory).

Now, I have a full time job (plus some), a house, two cars and a family (wife and two small children)... So, time is definitely a luxury these days! ;-)

ALSO, I don't intend to ever become a gigging 6-string player (regardless of string configuration). I have way too many great vintage basses and trusty 5-strings. I imagine messing around with a 6-string at home and using it only for recording ideas that have the potential to 'go higher' every now and then.

Therefore, I also at finding a used 6-string that will only cost a fraction of any one of my other basses - it's just for fun this time.

ggunn said:

Well, that G-B third is in there on guitar for making chords work with reasonable fingering. For bass, I want all the intervals between strings to be the same. YMMV, of course.

Click to expand...

Sure, I do see th point in having even fourth intervals across all strings, but when you are used to the 'guitar layout', a high B-string is an advantage, IMO.