MusicMan Action

It was set up, more or less, for EADG tuning when you bought it. You can't just downtune to B and call it a day. It needs new strings and a full set up.

 

Wait. Are you saying you are trying to detune the normal EADG set of strings to BEAD? If so, that ain't gonna work so well.

 

You'll need:

• Gauge-appropriate stings
• A new nut or a modified stock nut that is grooved for the thicker strings
• Intonation adjustment
• Possible bridge saddle height and/or truss rod adjustments

 

If BADG tuning is going to be permanent it needs work. If not, tune it back up to normal and let it acclimate a bit. Might need a truss rod tweak though.

 

The neck of a modern bass has a truss rod that counters the tension of the strings. In order for the action to work properly there needs to be a slight bow in the middle and the truss rod is adjusted against EADG tuning to allow for this slight bow. When you d-tuned it to BEAD the neck straightened out and now you may even have some back bow as the truss rod is overcompensating for the now lower string tension and this is what is causing all the fret buzz. You could have your bass tech adjust the truss rod and the bass should be playable but, the current strings you have are designed to be tuned EADG and not BEAD. So, to do this properly you would need a set of 5 string bass strings. Have your tech install a new nut that has been cut for BEAD and have him/her install the BEAD strings and adjust everything properly. (save the G string)

 

it's very likely that tuning back up to standard will get things back to normal. if not some simple tweaks you can do yourself will fix it. tuning down a half step on the same set of strings with no adjustments? yeah maybe. tuning down a 4th? nope. but you know that now.