String Gauge

[FretlessOwl]

I don't think I've ever started a thread, so forgive me if I screw something up!
Would I be okay changing strings on my 6 from gauges of 32 45 65 80 100 130 to a set with 30 45 65 85 105 125? Please tell me the seemingly small differences in gauge won't have a negative impact on action and/or require a truss rod adjustment.

 

[nmiller]

There's no way to know for certain without simply trying it. Some gauges are going up, some are going down, and you didn't even say whether they're the same type of strings, how you have the action set, and how picky you are about it. It might require adjustment of the truss rod, bridge, and/or nut, or it may not.

 

[Lo-E]

Nmiller is exactly right. You can't really speculate on that. You just have to string it up and make any necessary adjustments.

They're easy adjustments that players should learn to be comfortable making anyway.

 

[michael_t]

Would I be okay changing strings on my 6 from gauges of 32 45 65 80 100 130 to a set with 30 45 65 85 105 125? Please tell me the seemingly small differences in gauge won't have a negative impact on action and/or require a truss rod adjustment.

Looking at those two sets of gauges, I wouldn't expect any drastic change in the overall setup.

Tweaking the truss rod is one of the simplest things you can learn to do. So, go ahead and make the change and see what happens. And tweak the truss rod as needed.

 

[FretlessOwl]

I figured "just do it and see" might be the answer, but I just wanted informed opinions. All the strings in question are nickel rounds, and I was hoping the differing higher/lower gauges would balance out - I certainly wouldn't go from light to extra heavy or vice versa. And yeah, I am a little nervous about truss rods. Thanks for all.

 

[michael_t]

I am a little nervous about truss rods.

No need to be nervous about truss rods. Tweaking the truss rod is as simple as adjusting the tire pressures on your vehicle. It should be part of your routine maintenance.

What make and model of bass do you have?

 

[FretlessOwl]

No need to be nervous about truss rods. Tweaking the truss rod is as simple as adjusting the tire pressures on your vehicle. It should be part of your routine maintenance.

What make and model of bass do you have?

A weird one: an AIO/Wolf KTB-6. Wanting to go from D'Addarios to DR Sunbeams. I don't remember 100% but I think there may be 2 rods in there.

 

[Killing Floor]

Same brand? Same series? The tension might not change that much. I agree it is hard to definitively say yes or no. But I try different brands and sets much more often than I need to adjust my bass. I would not let that stop me from trying different strings.
Don't be intimidated by the truss rod. There is nothing that can't be undone. Just a small turn at at a time, or maybe none at all.

 

[Killing Floor]

A weird one: an AIO/Wolf KTB-6. Wanting to go from D'Addarios to DR Sunbeams. I don't remember 100% but I think there may be 2 rods in there.View attachment 4475712

I was not aware there would be green fretless content. Wow, that's sweet.

 

[FretlessOwl]

I was not aware there would be green fretless content. Wow, that's sweet.

Ha. Thanks. Anyone who wants a fretless (and probably fretted) should check them out; impossible deal for the money. Ebony fingerboard too that has changed my fretless life - so much more sustain than my previous rosewoods that I'm having to learn to control it! I did have to change the nut to bone, though, but still well worth it. Ok I'll stfu now. I'm not used to having people who appreciate bass details!