Dropped C string gauge?

[The Beelzebob]

My guitarist and i have chose to tune down a full step to standard D and for most songs drop the low string so we'll be playing in drop C. My strings won't stay in tune and are a little loose, i've read i should get thicker string but i'm not sure what size to get. right now i have .45 to .105 nickel plated steel Dunlops. i realize i will have to change brands as well since dunlop doesn't make many sizes due to being a new string designer. i'm considering Elixirs if it's possible since my guitars raves about them and i enjoy the feel of his guitar strings. i play a long scale (34") Warwick Corvette $$.

so what gauge should i get and any brand recommendations?

 

[ArgyleStrap]

I like rotosound heavys, they accommodate D standard pretty well, but I like a lot of tension, and normally stick to standard, or half a step down.

 

[Meatrus]

Any make you want, but gauge wise 110 + , maybe a 115 on the bottom (E/C).

 

[knumbskull]

if you are alternating between standard D and drop C, i'd recommend a .115 low string. maybe something like .95, .70, .50 for the rest? that should even out the tension some, and still give you a reasonably responsive low C.

for reference, my drop C set is .125, .90., .70, .50 - this would be too tight on the low string for standard D though.

and it does not account for the natural variable tension across the neck in 'normal' sets... i think i'll try a thicker .95 'A' (or G as it is) in future.

 

[Solarmist]

I use a custom gauge set (SIT Powerwounds) 50 / 70 / 90 / 110 for DGCF which is about the right tension, but if you use drop C a lot I'd go with a 115/120.

 

[chanson]

Try these:

http://accessories.musiciansfriend....vy-Gauge-Bass-Boomers-Bass-Strings?sku=100554

 

[Mikebass6]

I use that same tuning and DR's with a .110 have plenty of tension on my Sabre. Skip from Knuckle Basses makes strings as well in custom gauges in excess of .200 for a decent price if you wanted to go extremely low.