Double Bass String Length for 5/8ths

[Maaaven]

This is a very simple question.

Strings are avaialble in 1/2 and 3/4 sizes.

Which is a bettery choice for a 5/8ths base of 39.5" string length?

 

[Jake deVilliers]

That depends on the strings you want to use. The 1/2 sizes are often a little thicker, to add mass where there is less tension. For pizz jazz and bluegrass the Spirocore Orchestras work fairly well, as do the Superflexibles. The Supers have a little less metallic sound to them and are bowable if you're inclined that way.

 

[Maaaven]

Thanks for the input, let's see if I got it right.

If I put a 3/4 string (designed around 42" string length)
onto my 39.5 inch bass, they will tune up at less than
the spec level of tension. Correct?

 

[Michael Glynn]

Thanks for the input, let's see if I got it right.

If I put a 3/4 string (designed around 42" string length)
onto my 39.5 inch bass, they will tune up at less than
the spec level of tension. Correct?

Yup. 3/4 strings will be lower tension than they normally would be, and 1/2 strings will be higher tension.

I used to use a bass with a similar string length and I usually used 3/4 strings. There is a much bigger selection of 3/4 strings than 1/2 ones, too.