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Need help with new strings!

C

csm672

Nov 2, 2008
71
9
Cleveland, OK
#1
Just bought my 1st bass, a Gretch Electromatic short scale, from GC. It has rounds on it (don't know what size.) I play with some guys, mainly blues and some old rock. I would like to get some strings that would be higher tension, as mine seem pretty floppy. What do you recomend for the style of music I play and tension adjustment I'm after? After doing a search, it sounds like flats may be a good choice? We play alot of blues, alot of Hendrix, Neil Young, stuff along those lines. I am very happy laying low and letting the guitarists ride on top. I really have no idea what I should be looking for. Please help! Thanks in advance.
 
#2
First of all, a short scale will always have significantly lower tension than standard scale bass. So maybe you bought the wrong instrument for your playing style.
The only thing you can do is run heavier gauge strings, and you'll need a tech to modify the nut if you do this. And yes, flats generally run a little tighter too.
 
#4
GHS makes both Medium and short scale flats that won't break your wallet
and they sound good. Make sure your bass is in fact short scale. Some shorties take medium scale strings. If your bass' tuners are 2X2 the short scales will do fine usually. Measure from where the strings anchor to your bridge up to the nut.
This will tell you what legnth you need.
 
#5
Thanks for the suggestions. The Gretsch is a 30" scale. I don't think I can swing the Pyramids right now, but I will try to pick up a set of the GHS flats. Should I get the same diameter thats on my bass now, or would going a little larger in diameter tighten up my E string more? Thanks again.
 

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