How do you decide on string gauge?

After a couple of years of numerous "experiments" and "test drives", I have found a formula that seems to work for me fairly consistently.

I only play 4-strings basses and like a set of strings that are even across all strings in terms of tension around 40-45 lbs. per string. This generally translates to a set with gauges 45-60-80-105 or as close to them as possible. Unfortunately, not many manufacturers offer a set with those gauges as a factory set.

Strings choices are a very personal matter. The only way to find out what works for you is simply to try them out.

 

balanced tension

right now I've got some 0.044" - 0.106" strings on & they're perfect

 

Balanced tension and some meat on the bones for me.
Took years of trying out different gauges but now I'm set.
50/65/85/110
As a heavy handed pick player who enjoys low action this is what I arrived at.
Unfortunately for me it's hard to come by this setup but I'm lucky for bassstringsonline.com for selling singles of my favourite string.

 

Thinnest possible. I see no reason to use super heavy strings unless down tuning substantially.

I almost always use 0.40 to 0.100 (0.120 B) and have for years. Exceptions for me are flats/tapes which tend to be heavier gauges.

Personal preference in any case!

 

45 65 85 105 is a good starting point in my honest opinion, work around that or us that, or not.. up to you

 

I never really seemed to care until Talkbass. Welcome to the rabbit hole, amigo. These days, as others have stated, I look for balanced tension and some extra stiffness to get sweet action (DR Lo-Riders, 45-105).

 

I like medium gauge for playing/gigging dance music finger style.
You'll have to try some to see what works for you.

 

Most basses come with the above mentioned 45-65-85-105. Medium light. I just keep things simple and stick with that. I have way too bad of a bass buying habit to get used to anything else, and have to change things every time I buy a bass.

 

I tend to use 55-115 heavier gauge, due to my heavy attack with both pick and fingers.
Suppose i just like the tight tension and feel of them

 

My two best basses have the adjustment at the heel. So, rather than monkey around with the setup every 6 months I just go with slightly heavier strings in the summer when humidity is a problem and lighter the rest of the year. Not perfect but gets me in the ballpark.

 

I use the gauge that whatever bass I may be using sets up best with. That said, gauge is the final thing I consider when choosing a set. It's not that it isn't important, but I've played enough sets to where I know what to expect from a given brands respective gauges.

 

A bass has strings on it. You play it for a few minutes or a few weeks. Do you wish they felt different? That's how you decide.

You correct your setup as needed, regardless of why it has changed. Period.

 

It takes 2 things--- time and money.

 

I like that .106 E string......

 

Come to think of it, I like that Ken Smith bass too......

 

I prefer standart or light.
32,40,60,80,100,120
or
32,40,60,85,105,130

 

Hey man, how do you make the little comment appear below your TalkBass moniker? I can't figure it out.