Down tuning my new Lakland

[itwasagift]

I just got a new Lakland 55-02 and I want to tune it down to ADGCF as I have been playing this way for a long time now.

A bassist told me that Dan Lakland said the instrument wasn't really made to do this and this has discouraged some of my friends with Laklands from doing so. I however will not play a five at my gigs without tuning it down. Anyway, do you think this would be a big deal? And second does anyone have any suggestions on down tuning (set up, string tension, neck-bridge modifications etc.) and what strings to use to get a real deep bottom that is articulate and that growls? I've been thinking about getting DR DDT strings (down tuning Strings). please give me feedback!!!!

P.S. how do I join the Lakland club on here lol?

 

[NicJimBass]

A Lakland is like any other bass- with a proper setup and the right string gauges, it can be tuned down, easily. With the 35" scale, it won't loose much tension either.

 

[Darkstrike]

I'm sure it'll be fine for downtuning, I can't imagine anything about it being problematic.

 

[itwasagift]

Thanks guys yeah that's what I was thinking...any suggestions on what kind of strings are best for tuning down?

 

[Darkstrike]

Heavy ones!


Seriously, whatever you've been using all along, I've been using standard guages downtuned with years, just because they're easier to get.

 

[NicJimBass]

I've heard only good things about Circle K Strings. They make numerous guages, many of which are made specifically for downtuning.

 

[itwasagift]

Yeah I usually use Ernie Ball hybrids or medium guage but I'll definitely look into the Circle K strings

 

[itwasagift]

I checked out the circle K strings and they sound amazing...the only problem is that I don't think they cater to through body stringing ...I might try em on my other bass tho

 

[RHCP250]

I've got Circle K's strung through body on my Lakie. I got standard length and it's close on my 34" scale, the next scale length up should be fine.

 

[TrevorOfDoom]

i've used DDT's in the past and was very pleased. I'd suggest you try them at least once.

 

[Georynn]

Heavy ones!


Seriously, whatever you've been using all along, I've been using standard guages downtuned with years, just because they're easier to get.

Seriously, this guy speaks the truth... since you're lowering the string tension to get a lower pitch, heavier gauge strings will be less floppy at lower tensions, and have more clarity, IMO...

 

[negative theory]

I used to use 45-135s on my 55-01 to tune down a step. It never gave me any issues. Currently, my 44-02 is tuned down a step with a Hipshot detuner set to take the top string down to C. They've both been rock solid. I actually used to play my 55-01 tuned up a step with no problems there either.