Hey guys, I've been playing around with my new ESP 8 string bass and I want to eventually downtune it to something like CGCF but the slots on the bridge saddles and nut look too small to accomodate heavier gauge strings, would it be possible for me to enlarge the slots on the nut and bridge so I can fit the heavier gauge strings?
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8 string question
- Thread starter SixxStringBass
- Start date
Yes, with a quality set of small files you can widen the nut and bridge channels, although it might be a good idea to let a pro do it.
One thing to watch out for, though, is whether you'll then be able to intonate the bass after the change.
On my 8-string a few of the bridge saddles are all the way to the rear, so if I went with heavier strings or even tuned it to drop-D there's no space for the needed adjustment.
You'll have to look at how much room you have to work with and make some educated guesses as to whether it'll work.
Also, 8's are running a bit more string tension than their typically 5-string neck width usually has to handle, so the trussrod had better be working perfectly to deal with heavier gauges.
You may have to go with a set that's floppier than you prefer to make it all work.
To sum up: it may work with a good setup and careful attention to details, but then again it might not. I strongly recommend consulting a good tech before starting this project.
Hope this helps.
One thing to watch out for, though, is whether you'll then be able to intonate the bass after the change.
On my 8-string a few of the bridge saddles are all the way to the rear, so if I went with heavier strings or even tuned it to drop-D there's no space for the needed adjustment.
You'll have to look at how much room you have to work with and make some educated guesses as to whether it'll work.
Also, 8's are running a bit more string tension than their typically 5-string neck width usually has to handle, so the trussrod had better be working perfectly to deal with heavier gauges.
You may have to go with a set that's floppier than you prefer to make it all work.
To sum up: it may work with a good setup and careful attention to details, but then again it might not. I strongly recommend consulting a good tech before starting this project.
Hope this helps.
Bridge looks to have a good amount of extra space, and truss rod is working nicely it appears. The bass also plays very nice and is clearly intonated across the entire neck. It just lacks the power I want, the strings just seem a little weak to me, though it could just be my amp. I will definitely take it to a tech though. One of my good friends is a luthier and does the work on most of my basses so I'll consult with him for sure. Thanks for the information!
