Ok, im sure this has been covered a few times, but i cant seem to wrap my brain around it for my application as its not QUITE covered, so hopefully, you guys with experience here can point me in the right direction. Also note, im planning on going with Kalium strings so i can pick and choose the right gauge for each string. This is what i need help with. Picking the right gauges to maintain string tension. I understand i will have to do some nut modifications, but id like to leave the bridge alone. The bass: Bill Dickens Conklin 7 string - 35" Scale The tuning: CGCGCGC The hurdle: I want that bottom C an octave lower (almost) than the typical Low B string down there. Basically i want to ditch the 1 lower 2 higher config, and go 2 lower and one higher. Do you think this can be achieved with any useable range? If not, i will do GCGCGCG with the bottom G being one octave lower than the 3rf fret E string. HALP!
Yeah totally possible, they have strings for standard C# of C#F#BEADG so C is no problem. I assume you have a top-loading slot-loading bridge? that will be essential. Here's the tension chart for 35" http://store.kaliumstrings.com/TensionCalculator/tensionChart.php?scale_length=35 You can use this to discover what per-string tension you like by using you current gauges and tuning, then use those per-string tension values to choose gauges for the new tuning. Any problems do ask. Kalium recommend a minimum tension of 30lbs for mid to lower bass strings, so at least .222 for C.
Ok this is helpful. I had spent some good time with this exact calculator and never got far in my understanding of it. Something was always missing. Your suggestion to reference my existing string gauge/tension setup against the desired result is a huge "aha" moment. Thanks much. I'll report with further (inevitable) inquiries.
Start with a string twice as thick as what you like for a low B. Double the thickness at the same lbs of pull = one octave down.
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