hey TB
I've tried just about every kind of string over the years and seem to go larger and larger diameter every few years. I just got a set of D'addario EXL160BT (.120, .90, .67, .50) and added an XL145T (.145 tapered) to it to make a five string set.nthis is BY FAR the largest strings I've used for Standard tuning.
I have a great Carvin PB5 (34" Bolt Neck Bass) that I was looking for more beef from, so I decided to go all in with this "custom set"
I did of course have to file the nut for the B and E string, so going back to lighter gauges could present a problem, but I don't intend to. Also of course it needed a setup, but I always do that when changing string gauges.
The result is a big fat thumpy bottom end and it retains nice minds and zingy highs (Nickel Wound)
I was afraid it would be uncomfortable to play, but it's actually the opposite. The added string tension actually makes it easier for my fingers to pass over the string more quickly because they do not flex as much as you pluck them. Basically, faster right hand. I am able to keep a relatively low action (I'm have a heavy hand so super low doesn't work for me) compared to my lighter gauged strung instruments. Again there is more tension allowing less flexing of the string resulting in a smaller orbital path when plucked.
I have ordered a similar sized set from Circle K which should be even more balanced that what I have ( The .145 only boasts about 47 lbs where all other strings are just over 50 on this set) with approx 250lbs total tension.
If you're open to doing some setup work (I think everyone should know how and be comfortable with the basics) and are looking for a tighter more powerful sound, then you may want to try going huge on your strings. Don't expect to be able to slap me on and go right away, tehere is absolutely some setup involved but that's part of the fun of it to me as well.
I've tried just about every kind of string over the years and seem to go larger and larger diameter every few years. I just got a set of D'addario EXL160BT (.120, .90, .67, .50) and added an XL145T (.145 tapered) to it to make a five string set.nthis is BY FAR the largest strings I've used for Standard tuning.
I have a great Carvin PB5 (34" Bolt Neck Bass) that I was looking for more beef from, so I decided to go all in with this "custom set"
I did of course have to file the nut for the B and E string, so going back to lighter gauges could present a problem, but I don't intend to. Also of course it needed a setup, but I always do that when changing string gauges.
The result is a big fat thumpy bottom end and it retains nice minds and zingy highs (Nickel Wound)
I was afraid it would be uncomfortable to play, but it's actually the opposite. The added string tension actually makes it easier for my fingers to pass over the string more quickly because they do not flex as much as you pluck them. Basically, faster right hand. I am able to keep a relatively low action (I'm have a heavy hand so super low doesn't work for me) compared to my lighter gauged strung instruments. Again there is more tension allowing less flexing of the string resulting in a smaller orbital path when plucked.
I have ordered a similar sized set from Circle K which should be even more balanced that what I have ( The .145 only boasts about 47 lbs where all other strings are just over 50 on this set) with approx 250lbs total tension.
If you're open to doing some setup work (I think everyone should know how and be comfortable with the basics) and are looking for a tighter more powerful sound, then you may want to try going huge on your strings. Don't expect to be able to slap me on and go right away, tehere is absolutely some setup involved but that's part of the fun of it to me as well.
