GCFA#D#

[TragicWinter]

Got into a new project that's Blackened Doom Metal, but they tune to C. I have an ESP Ltd F-415FM 35"scale. I could tune it starting with C, but I like having that lower string. I've tried doing all the research I can about strings, their brands, gauges, tensions, etc. I've just gotta pull the trigger and check it for myself, till I feel right with the setup. So, this is the progression I'm gonna take:

-DR DDT (55-135)
-DR DDT (55-115+145)
-Rotosound sets (65-175) and just tune up a half step
-Circle K 182 Blncd set

*fingers crossed

 

[ixlramp]

Save money and skip the first 2 sets, .145 is only just big enough to be usable at A. D'Addario sell a single .160 which might just be enough.
Conklin Guitars sell .165 by mail order from their website. In Europe schneidermusik.de sell .160 and .170 steels by Pyramid strings.

 

[AciDBatH666]

I think the Circle K .182 set is overkill. We tune to C#, and I, like you considered tuning the C# to the 4th string and having the 5th as a G# (half step off yours).
A G# set for me would be the .158 Circle K set. I figure a G set would be somewhere around .160-165

 

[Thomas Kievit]

With the up tuning, you probably mean getting a low F#?

 

[ixlramp]

Kalium recommend exceeding 30 pounds tension, so .158 minimum. The .182 balanced set will be roughly 44 pounds which is a medium tension, similar to a .105 E, not excessive at all. Tuning up the roto set will have very tight higher strings, i would either go Kalium balanced or build a set from singles of another brand.

 

[TragicWinter]

Thomas, that's what I was planning on doing, but the .105 for an F seems a little much. I think I'm gonna get D'Addario's EXl160BT set for my CFA#D#, and get their .160 for the low G. I've found it in tapered and full. My bridge is a top load, which would be preferable?

 

[Jensby design]

Circle K 174 balanced (BH-174-5BS) is what I would recommend.
That 174 is an awesome string.

 

[Thomas Kievit]

If you decide to tune down to a low F#, I would recommend the .160 low B. D'addario makes great strings and I think the .160 low B will do it for you. If you only go for a C, a .135 is enough.

 

[TragicWinter]

This is my plan of attack at this point. Go with the D'Addario EXL160BT set, and add their .160

Lowest to highest string
G=.160
C=.120
F=.90
A#=.67
D#=.50

 

[Thomas Kievit]

That looks very decent. I say go for it!

 

[ixlramp]

I've found it in tapered and full. My bridge is a top load, which would be preferable?

Tapered for sure, i have used the D'Addario tapered .145s they are very clear and flexible for their thickness, and intonate well high up the neck. At that gauge a non-taperwound will be stiff and dull, and will probably have problems fitting in the bridge.
Apparently that .160 is intended to be added to that balanced set to create a 5 string balanced set.