This post might be in the wrong spot - if so moderator please move -
Well getting a good answer to this question was agony but here's what I've learned;
Caution = Do this sober!
Applicability = any bass, regardless of the number of strings.
Tools = A ruler (recommend a 6" length that is calibrated in millimeters) - plastic or wood without a metal edge (no scratches allowed) - Very good lighting and something to do some simple conversion math with (aka, 4 function calculator) - Note 1: Most research I've done depicts "String Spacing" for bass in millimeters (mm) so thats what I've used.
Where to measure = The standard place is across the bridge where the bridge saddle contacts the string (on the side of the bridge saddle that is played on)
Two formula variables to measure and remember =
Measuring point #1: Measure the distance (in millimeters) from the (top) center point of your lowest string (the E string for example on a 4 string) to the (top) center point of the highest string (the G string for example on a 4 string).
Measuring point #2: Count the number of SPACES in between your highest and lowest strings (For example a 4 string will have 3 spaces, 5 string will have 4 and so on)
Okay the measuring is done - so how to calculate the answer?
Formula = P1 / P2 = SS
The distance measured in measuring point #1 (P1) divided by the number of spaces counted in measuring point #2 (P2) will equal the string spacing (SS) in millimeters
Examples;
Five string = 75mm (distance) / (divided by) 4 (number of spaces) = (equals) 18.75mm (string spacing)
Four string = 53mm (distance) / (divided by) 3 (number of spaces) = (equals) 17.66mm (string spacing)
Note 2: some instrument manufactures and after market bridge suppliers have adjustable string spacing (within a range) features - Like some Fenders for example. Also some suppliers may provide blank bridge saddles that you or you luthier can set up specific to your individual needs. So theoretically your favorite 4 string can be set up with the same or similar spacing of your favorite 5er.
Don't assume this is the case however as a good luthier should be consulted if/when considering this adjustment for your individual instrument(s) before proceeding.
Hope this helps
Well getting a good answer to this question was agony but here's what I've learned;
Caution = Do this sober!
Applicability = any bass, regardless of the number of strings.
Tools = A ruler (recommend a 6" length that is calibrated in millimeters) - plastic or wood without a metal edge (no scratches allowed) - Very good lighting and something to do some simple conversion math with (aka, 4 function calculator) - Note 1: Most research I've done depicts "String Spacing" for bass in millimeters (mm) so thats what I've used.
Where to measure = The standard place is across the bridge where the bridge saddle contacts the string (on the side of the bridge saddle that is played on)
Two formula variables to measure and remember =
Measuring point #1: Measure the distance (in millimeters) from the (top) center point of your lowest string (the E string for example on a 4 string) to the (top) center point of the highest string (the G string for example on a 4 string).
Measuring point #2: Count the number of SPACES in between your highest and lowest strings (For example a 4 string will have 3 spaces, 5 string will have 4 and so on)
Okay the measuring is done - so how to calculate the answer?
Formula = P1 / P2 = SS
The distance measured in measuring point #1 (P1) divided by the number of spaces counted in measuring point #2 (P2) will equal the string spacing (SS) in millimeters
Examples;
Five string = 75mm (distance) / (divided by) 4 (number of spaces) = (equals) 18.75mm (string spacing)
Four string = 53mm (distance) / (divided by) 3 (number of spaces) = (equals) 17.66mm (string spacing)
Note 2: some instrument manufactures and after market bridge suppliers have adjustable string spacing (within a range) features - Like some Fenders for example. Also some suppliers may provide blank bridge saddles that you or you luthier can set up specific to your individual needs. So theoretically your favorite 4 string can be set up with the same or similar spacing of your favorite 5er.
Don't assume this is the case however as a good luthier should be consulted if/when considering this adjustment for your individual instrument(s) before proceeding.
Hope this helps
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