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How close of a string spacing is possible

Bane64

Bane64

Mar 24, 2019
19
4
#1
Surprised that I couldn't find anything on this topic, other than people looking for
basses with narrow string spacing.

I want to know how close strings can theoretically be, in standard tuning,
on a 4 string bass.
Closest I've seen someone comment, was 14mm, but does anyone have a rule
for what is possible?

Gonna make my own bass one day, so this will greatly help.
 
#2
The only real limit is stopping the strings from hitting each other. If you can measure the string excursion at the maximum point, that plus a small fudge factor should be your answer. Very few people would want to play a bass with that tight of a string spacing. Its more about comfort than possible.
 
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#4
square-piano-02.jpg

:)
 
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#6
The Ibanez Gerald Veasley signature bass (Ibanez GVB1006) is a six string bass guitar. The string spacing is fourteen millimeters. That's 9/16" in the USA.

It should be noted that Mr. Veasley does a lot of chord work.

Those who play chords regularly sometimes prefer narrow spacing.
 
#8
A Fender Bass VI or its variants (mine is the SRC6 from Ibanez) has a typical electric guitar 10.8 mm string spacing at bridge (center to center of the strings).

Does it have to be played with a pick? Nope, I could play mine finger style just fine. The string gauges are .026, .035, .044, .056, .075, .095. So, the 4 bottom strings are somewhat comparable to (super) light gauge string set on a regular long scale bass.
 
#9
202dy said:
The Ibanez Gerald Veasley signature bass (Ibanez GVB1006) is a six string bass guitar. The string spacing is fourteen millimeters. That's 9/16" in the USA.
Click to expand...

I have a Modulus Quantum-6 SPX that I bought new in 1987 (well, ordered it in '87, took delivery in early '88) that has 13.9mm string spacing. I ordered that bass because, at that time Modulus' only other 6-string bass had even narrower string spacing! Not sure what it was but holy good god y'all it must've been tight!
 
#10
Most guitar players would think that spacing to be very wide. They are playing chords and therefore benefit from having the strings close together. They can make an argument against wide spacing for the left hand.

Some finger pick or take single note solos with their right hand fingers. So arguments about wider spacing for the right hand don't carry much weight, either.

In the end it comes down to preference. Whatever you like is right.
 

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