What set can be used for this bass? Or I can use a regular 4 string set, but I dont find a single B string for a short scale bass. Any information is useful.
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5 string set for a short scale bass (30 inch)
- Thread starter Edwin Belgium
- Start date
DR has Hi-Beams and Sunbeams in a short scale size. I'm using their short-scale 5 string sets on my 32" scale bass.
DR "short scale" is longer than most at 33.75" winding length (ball end to taper), while "short scale" by most other companies are 32"-32.75" (ball end to taper). Assuming the OP's bass is not thru-body, 33.75" would be a little too long.
What specific make and model of bass do you have? Does it have a top-load only bridge or is there an option for thru-body.
Dunlop is one of the companies who offer factory 5-string sets in true "short scale" with 32" winding length (ball end to taper).
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Ric5
Inactive
- Jan 29, 2008
- 29,772
- 30,452
- Disclosures
- I like 5, 8, 10, and 12 string basses
the 4 +1 scenario could work.
The main problem with a long scale low B on a 30" or 32" scale bass is if the part of the string where it goes from wound to taper enters the tuner the string could break right there. I had it happen 3 times with a 33" scale bass.
one solution is this here.
For all my basses i only use DR strings now. But I prefer the Lo-Riders for the het core and so they are more stiffer. A short scale has already a more flexibele feeling. And the Hi and Sunbeams have a round core and more flexible. But I can try them out!
Last edited:
Ric5
Inactive
- Jan 29, 2008
- 29,772
- 30,452
- Disclosures
- I like 5, 8, 10, and 12 string basses
The thru-body option on short scale basses usually require "medium scale" strings with a winding length of around 34".
Dunlop does offer Super Bright rounds, both SS and NPS, in "medium scale" with 34" winding. And DR's "short scale" with 33.75" winding would be fine for thru-body. As mentioned by another poster earlier, the Hi Beams (SS) and the Sunbeams (NPS) both come in "short scale" 5-string sets (45-125). They should work fine for thru-body.
A 30" B is useable, but you have to may have to adjust your expectations and technique.
