help choosing bass strings

[bogwalrus]

I have been playing bass for years but recently bought a new bass and need to find the perfect strings for it and my style.


The bass is a 24 fret ernie ball bongo. Quite the sexy beast of a bass!!

Now my standard tuning is F-A.-D.-G. (sharp = . )

I have a few tunings involving a tone drop on the F and G. but that would be the extent of it.


Now tension seems to be the big issue i have. I do a lot of tapping above the 12 and play with pick and hands (no slapping or funk)


I need to find a good gauge string (and make) that will allow me to be in my F tuning and not have the strings too taught making it impossible for me to tap.

Any ides on a brand and or gauge??


Thanks,
Boggy

 

[nutso42]

I'm not an expert on UP-tunings, but I have a few ideas. You'll probably want lower gauge strings. For instance, the standard is about .45-.105, but Rotosound has a set called 'Funk Master' which are .30-.90. Another thing you might consider is lowering the action on the Truss Rod. Make it so the strings are closer to the neck. I did this to my Yamaha to make slapping easier, and works marvelously. Just make sure you don't lower it TOO much.

 

[kirkm24]

I would recommend Dr Lo Riders (Nickel or Stainless Steel) for the Bongo. I've been using them on mine and couldn't be happier. They are high tension but not as high tension as other strings out there. They are very stable for tapping and harmonics. I use the stainless version but if you want a warmer sound with a smoother feel, you might opt for the nickel version. Sorry, I use these in medium gauge 45-130.

 

[bogwalrus]

i lowered the action yesterday and it did ease up the tension on the strings. My current strings are a nice distance from the fret board now but still just too much tension.

I am very comfortable with the 45-105 gauge but will probably have to go light to sort out the tension issue.

thanks for the help on this one.