Double Bass how close can you put the strings together?

[Alex Scott]

I have been thinking about moving my strings a little closer together on a sort of solo setup.

I use corelli medium 370's and am trying to figure out how close I can get the strings.

How can I figure that out?

any ideas?

 

[Alex Scott]

looks like about 24 mmm, for those curious onlookers, I don't think you want to get closer than that

 

[arnoldschnitzer]

Typical width is 26-28mm. When you go narrower, you need to increase the arch of the fingerboard and bridge, or you'll be playing unintended double stops (assuming you are playing arco).

 

[Alex Scott]

Thanks Arnold,

I was going for a Rabbath type solo setup and wanted the strings really close for arco string crossings and stuff.

I am actually very comfortable with the new set-up, although I have abandoned a orchestral career with the current set-up.

In the past, I have considered adding a bevel so the e-string can vibrate more freely, but still be closer to the a string.

I have also been wondering about how changing the fingerboard curve could help. If it were more dramatic, I could probably get the strings a little closer.


Have you ever worked with someone trying to do that?

 

[Alex Scott]

eventually, you may find you are out another $500 for the new bridge.