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Check my math for tension...

S

souportugues

Mar 22, 2011
31
0
Music City
www.ilike.com
#1
So I'm looking at putting a set of rounds on my shortscale (30"), and I've done the math based on the formulas and charts, mostly found on Circle K.
If I get one their basic 4 string sets (.150 .112 .082 .061), and tune down to CFA#D#, That gives me tension in the ballpark of 40lbs... Right?

It's been a while since I've done algebra, so, any correction would be appreciated...:hmm:
 
#2
.150 should be about right. Since 40" scale is the same tension as 34" only 1 1/2 steps up, we can assume for every 2" in scale length, tension changes the same as tuning up or down a half step.

Since 30" is 4 less than 34", that makes a whole step. .150 at 34" tuned to C has a tension of 51.8, drop it a whole step to A#, and now we have 41.2.

Its too bad Circle K doesn't have a .146, because it would be about perfect.

This works for all the strings.
 
#6
souportugues said:
Uber thanks brother; that's EXACTLY what I was looking for.

Anyone know if a 150 will fit into the Hipshot triple lock-down bridges? I tried to find specs on Hipshot's site, but came up empty...
Click to expand...

It will certainly fit top-loaded (I have the same bridge for my 8-string), but you might be S.O.L. with running it through the body. Circle K recommends not putting them through the body anyway because the taper is probably not long enough to account for the body depth.
 
#7
According to my calculation it gives you a tension of 43 to 46 pounds. Here's a link to download the string calculator I wrote recently:

[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

StringCalc.jpg
 
#8
Remember though that a big 34" scale string is too long will not wrap around the post on a 30" scale bass, you will need to get a custom strig made by Octave4Plus or Pyramid Strings.
 
#9
ixlramp said:
Remember though that a big 34" scale string is too long will not wrap around the post on a 30" scale bass, you will need to get a custom strig made by Octave4Plus or Pyramid Strings.
Click to expand...

Yeah, this is a somewhat all too familiar problem. The tape-wounds on there now (La Bella) are a standard scale, and do fit, but just barely. It's an odd duck (read: Wishbass).

The measurements are as follows: 1.625" from ball end slot to saddle; 30" from saddle to nut; 2.5" from nut to 4th post ("B"), 3.5" from nut to 2nd post ("A").

I'm probably over-thinking all this. I should just try and find a cheap 5 string set of high tension flats and go for broke...
 

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