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Strings for C tuning.

Discussion in 'Strings [BG]' started by MichaelWoodland, Apr 17, 2012.

  1. Apr 17, 2012 #1
    MichaelWoodland

    MichaelWoodland Guest

    Mar 28, 2012
    Melbourne
    Hey everybody, in my band we have a few songs where I tune my bass to a C-G-C-G. I use a different bass now, but I want to use a Cort Curbow4 for this tuning, but when I do the strings go extremely clanky to the point of being straight percussion.

    Would you suppose a nice little bass like that be able to handle a B-string for a low C? If so what strings would be wise for the others? I'm thinking the thinnest gauge B i could find might be safe, but of course I could use a second opinion before I potentially lose a bass or an eye.

    Hell, have you guys ever had a dilemma like this before or used out there string setups? do tell....

    oh, and cheers by the way!!
     
  2. Apr 17, 2012 #2
    BassIsFun17

    BassIsFun17

    Jan 16, 2006
    Atlanta
    use the lowest for strings from a 5 string set (B-E-A-D), that seems to be a pretty common way to pull off C tuning.
     
  3. Apr 17, 2012 #3
    MichaelWoodland

    MichaelWoodland Guest

    Mar 28, 2012
    Melbourne
    I've considered that, but the thought it daunting when I think that every string will be much tighter than intended, especially for a high G string (where I would obviously use a normal g string) nontheless, for the tighter and fatter strings I feel as though the extra tension would turn my bass into a ticking time-bomb.

    Edit: the bass I want to use is no FenderP, its little, light, skinny, hell the fingerboard aint even made of wood. that is partially why I'm hesitant in jumping to a lower gauge.
     
  4. Apr 17, 2012 #4
    jabsys

    jabsys Guest

    Mar 30, 2011
    UK
    I've used EB power slinkys (110-55) for CGCF without a problem, would definitely need a different high G string though, for me a BEAD set tuned up would be way to much tension.
     
  5. Apr 17, 2012 #5
    spector_boogie

    spector_boogie No Limit Honky Supporting Member

    Apr 15, 2012
    The Woodlands, TX
    i tune to drop C with my band (CGCF) and have been using the Circle K .124 drop set for a while now. i experimented with the BEAD thing and it was extremely too much tension.

    "off the shelf" the best strings i found are Ernie Ball .110-.55 set or DR .110 Hi Beams, if you can find them.
     
  6. Apr 17, 2012 #6
    chucko58

    chucko58

    Jan 17, 2002
    Silicon Valley, CA, USA
    I paid for all my gear myself. Well, me and MasterCard.
    Go grab the Circle K tension chart and make your own custom set for this tuning, aiming for a tension of 35-38 lbs on every string.
     
  7. Apr 17, 2012 #7
    ixlramp

    ixlramp Guest

    Jan 25, 2005
    ^ What chucko58 said. Using BEAD strings is a very bad idea.

    So i assume you'll be in CGCG permanently with this bass.

    You need to build a custom set from single strings. Use these 2 tension charts to discover what tension value you prefer, then choose gauges that result in that tension value on each string. 30 pounds = extra light, 35 = light, 40 = medium.
    http://www.daddario.com/upload/tension_chart_13934.pdf
    http://circlekstrings.com/CKSIMAGES/CircleKtensionChart.pdf

    Common B strings are usually at extra light tension so it's fine to tune up a .125 or .130 to C, in fact the tone and playability will improve.
     
  8. Apr 17, 2012 #8
    smo

    smo

    Nov 3, 2005
    A Sandgropers' City, Australia
    I have been tuning to C exclusively for over 10 years.

    BEAD sets are hit & miss, as are fat 4 string sets.
    What you need, is to decide whether you want FLATS, TAPES or Rounds - then we can help you.
    I use flats, TI Jazz Flats - the 5 banger set. They have very low tension in standard BEADC, but I tune them up for the perfect tension.

    Are you aiming for rounds?
     
  9. Apr 17, 2012 #9
    ixlramp

    ixlramp Guest

    Jan 25, 2005
    2 or 3 posts in this thread have overlooked that the intended tuning is CGCG, not C standard or drop C.