DGCF tuning and string gauge on a 34" scale bass

[jhch14]

Hi everyone!

I recently changed my tuning from EADG to DGCF on my Yamaha BB1200s (34¨scale). The problem is that I´m using light gauge strings (40-100 DR Hi Beams (round wounds)), and now my bass lacks ¨punch¨.

I would like to have the loose feel of the down-tuned light gauge strings to some extent, but improve the tone. I have some issues with hand fatigue, so that is one reason why I changed tunings.

I was thinking of trying different brands and gauges, but with the premise of keeping it low tension while at the same time not sacrificing a lot of tone. I´m willing to compromise a little bit on the tone department though, in favor of ease of playing.

I play both fingerstyle and pick, with a light touch.

- I want to experiment with different string types, so what would be your recommendation for round wounds, flat wounds and tape wounds?

- For round wounds: Would a 45-105 DR DDT (Hex Core?) set work? That is my first option right now.

Thank you all very much!

 

[michael_t]

I recently strung up my Fender Jazz with GHS Pressurewounds M7200 (44-62-84-106) for DGCF, and they're working out great. Comfortable tension/stiffness without feeling too loose or floppy.

If you like the tone of the Hi Beams 40-100 in EADG, you can always try one size bigger, 45-105, for DGCF.

Check out this thread as well: D Standard Club (DGCF)

 

[michael_t]

- For round wounds: Would a 45-105 DR DDT (Hex Core?) set work? That is my first option right now.

DR DDTs are specifically designed for down-tuning, and as such, they're quite a bit stiffer-feeling than the Hi Beams due to a relatively large hex core.

You might also want to check out the Stainless Steel Lo-Riders (45-105, hex core) as a slightly stiffer alternative to the Hi Beams.

 

[bearfoot]

Greetings, jhch14

I think you may be "chasing your tail" in this, as using heavier strings in the down-tuning will make it feel the same way as the 40-100 set in standard tuning.

With hand fatigue, I think this is going to be all about proper setup, particularly the string action at the first fret, which if I remember right, can be as little as 22/1000"

Another thing to consider is looking for round core, rather than hex core, bass strings. Like for instance, the DR Neons and several others. The round core wire has a much more supple feel.

But what we really need is to make sure the setup is 100%. You shouldn't be working too hard on those "money zone" notes.

 

[jhch14]

I recently strung up my Fender Jazz with GHS Pressurewounds M7200 (44-62-84-106) for DGCF, and they're working out great. Comfortable tension/stiffness without feeling too loose or floppy.

If you like the tone of the Hi Beams 40-100 in EADG, you can always try one size bigger, 45-105, for DGCF.

Check out this thread as well: D Standard Club (DGCF)

Thanks! I will definitely check those strings out

 

[jhch14]

Greetings, jhch14

I think you may be "chasing your tail" in this, as using heavier strings in the down-tuning will make it feel the same way as the 40-100 set in standard tuning.

With hand fatigue, I think this is going to be all about proper setup, particularly the string action at the first fret, which if I remember right, can be as little as 22/1000"

Another thing to consider is looking for round core, rather than hex core, bass strings. Like for instance, the DR Neons and several others. The round core wire has a much more supple feel.

But what we really need is to make sure the setup is 100%. You shouldn't be working too hard on those "money zone" notes.

Thank you very much! I will definitely keep all that in mind.

 

[4StringTheorist]

I'll second the kind words for the GHS M7200 set. I put them on my fretless for DGCF last month and they feel and sound fantastic

 

[Dave Siff]

La Bella M70 set, designed for DGCF. I used them for years and they're great.
La Bella M70 Hard Rockin Steel Heavy Gauge for D Tunning 4 String Bass Strings | Jeff Denny's Music Station | Reverb