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String Gauge Help

Discussion in 'Strings [BG]' started by Whitechapelle, Mar 4, 2017.

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  1. Mar 4, 2017 #1
    Whitechapelle

    Whitechapelle

    Mar 4, 2017
    I'm going to need some new strings for my 5-string SR505. I'll be playing in a band that does a lot of drop tuning, such as drop B and drop A. I've searched online a bit and can't find what I'm looking for. Any suggestions? The standard light strings I have on now get too slinky when I try to drop tune them.
     
    Last edited: Mar 4, 2017
  2. Mar 4, 2017 #2
    Linnin

    Linnin

    Jul 19, 2012
    Linningrad, Earth
    GHS Big Core Bass
     
  3. Mar 4, 2017 #3
    Whitechapelle

    Whitechapelle

    Mar 4, 2017
    How far down are these strings able to drop tune? Also, what's the life like on there strings? will I need to change them often?
     
  4. Mar 4, 2017 #4
    lz4005

    lz4005

    Oct 22, 2013
    What is drop-B on a 5? Your standard lowest note is already B.

    Drop A is just a whole step down on the B string. Replace that one with a heavier single if it gets too loose. Go up .010 or .020 from what you have now on that string.
     
    Jon Moody likes this.
  5. Mar 4, 2017 #5
    Whitechapelle

    Whitechapelle

    Mar 4, 2017
    Okay, I'll try that. Thanks for the help!
     
  6. Mar 4, 2017 #6
    ixlramp

    ixlramp Guest

    Jan 25, 2005
    What is the complete list of tunings you will be using? BEADG, BF#BEA and AEADG? If so you'll need an extra-light 4 string set (.090 or .095 E) for the top 4 plus a single .140/.145 for B/A. No pre-packaged set will be suitable (although Kalium Strings have light drop tune sets).
    A standard set will be too tight when tuning up the top 4 strings by 2 semitones.
    Also, what are your favourite gauges for standard BEADG?
     
    nice_hat likes this.
  7. Mar 7, 2017 #7
    Whitechapelle

    Whitechapelle

    Mar 4, 2017
    I settled on some medium gauge D'Addarios. Thanks for all the help guys!
     
  8. Mar 8, 2017 #8
    ixlramp

    ixlramp Guest

    Jan 25, 2005
    A medium gauge set will have higher strings too tight in drop B and the lowest string too loose tuned to A. However i guess you mean the guitars will be tuned to drop B not necessarily yourself. But still, using a single .145 will really help for A and is fine at B also. Make sure it's a taperwound, the D'Addario .145T are very flexible and harmonic i find.
     
  9. Mar 9, 2017 #9
    ixlramp

    ixlramp Guest

    Jan 25, 2005
    It really would be a good idea to let us know the tunings you will be using so we can advise a suitable custom set. A pre-packaged set will very likely not be suitable (the set you mention is not, for A).