String gauge curiosity

[FretlessOwl]

I don't know how to ask this, so I'll just give you guys as much info as I can and try anyway:
I have a Wolf 6-string fretless bass with an ebony fingerboard. It currently has D'Addario nickels on it (130, 100, 80, 65, 45, 32), and I'm thinking about switching to DR Sunbeams or coateds (125, 105, 85, 65, 45, 30). The gauges are fairly close to each other, so will it be necessary to set the bass up again? Incidentally (and I'm pretty sure tension doesn't work this way), the D'Addarios add to 452 and the DRs add to 455. Does my math have anything whatsoever to do with reality? I mainly want out of D'Addarios (especially the B) with minimal setup cost. Thanks for your patience!

 

[Lo-E]

Unfortunately, the answer to your question is “It depends…”

The gauges and, in fact, the tension of both string sets are very similar but Sunbeams are much more flexible strings than the D’Addarios are so the amount of relief in the neck might end up being the same, but it still might not be right for the new strings (in combination with the way you play and the way you like your action) because they behave a little bit differently. The only way to know, really, is to put the new strings on and play it.

It will probably end up being fairly close but only you will be able to determine if it’s close enough for your needs.

As an aside, Sunbeams are great strings for fretless!

 

[FretlessOwl]

I got the idea of Sunbeams from Tony Franklin, and he agrees with you.
I kinda figured "just do it" might be a possibility. As soon as this B goes dead (in 3....2....1) I'll give it a shot. Thanks!

 

[GTHintz]

Give it a try and when they settle it doesn't hurt to check intonation. It'll never be perfect but you can make sure it's close. Main thing is to monitor how the neck relief and action shifts with the new strings. Some strings just ride better with a certain bass.