• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Different strings for different tuning?

Jimstyx

Jimstyx

Guest
Jun 27, 2018
118
89
#1
So I just started listening to ghost again, and I know they play in d standard as I'm new to bass I just want to know do I HAVE to change my strings for different turnings? Specifically d standard but for future refferance do I need to change the strings for any tuning or will the strings that come on my bass stock be ok?
Not sure what strings came on my bass btw
 
#7
I'll have to double-check this when I get a chance, but are you absolutely sure the bassists for Ghost downtune? I learned a couple of Ghost tracks as combined singing and playing practice (Square Hammer for sure, don't remember the other title off the top of my head) and I didn't have to alter my tuning for either.
 
#8
.045, .065, .085, .105 are good strings for me on standard EADG tuning. You can try DGCF tuning on those gauges and see if there is enough tension for your playing style. If not, increase each string gauge by .005 and you should be good to go. Not sure if the nut on your bass will handle it though.

Also, I highly suggest taking the strings off your bass and getting a new set installed. You have no idea how old the original strings are and how much you can improve the tone of your bass.
 
#9
Most string gauges are sold to be at a certain tension, more or less, when tuned to EADG. If you detune any or all of them and want to keep the same exact tension or tone, then those strings need to be a heavier gauge or you need to learn to like the floppier feel and tone.

It's simple mathematics.

k81cuRq.png


Now, if you want to be able to change tunings often you need to compromise and select a string that has the desired tension at a note halfway in-between the two extremes of where you are wanting that string to go.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Jimstyx
#10
Paulabass said:
You're going to learn from one band?
Click to expand...
No obviously not but I want to play some of their music I don't have to stay in standard while I learn I can try new songs can I not? I wanted to know simply if I can keep my strings and change tuning if I couldn't I would put off playing ghost for a while but seeing as I don't have to change strings I would like to add some of their songs to my repotoire. Get it?
 
#11
Ophiothrix said:
I'll have to double-check this when I get a chance, but are you absolutely sure the bassists for Ghost downtune? I learned a couple of Ghost tracks as combined singing and playing practice (Square Hammer for sure, don't remember the other title off the top of my head) and I didn't have to alter my tuning for either.
Click to expand...
I'm not positive just random research showed a majority of the bass is in d standard I could be wrong
Regardless the question will help for further playing
Any bass player should know when a string change is required for different tuning
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back