Strings for Drop B tuning?

[LessIsmore]

I have just joined a new band that plays in Drop B Tuning. I play 4string,
and always played Standard E Tuning with Invalid Link Removed. What strings should I
get for Drop B? Get a 5string pack and not use the thinner one? Would
that tuning sound better on Warwick or a Stingray?

 

[lookslikemeband]

I'm no bassist (but I'm learning)....

Can you use the top 4 strings from a 5 string set???

 

[BassistFreak416]

just get a set of heavy strings.
if you buy a set of 5 strings and try and put those on, they wont fit since the nut is made to fit specific strings. otherwise just downtune your strings unless their too flimsy or wont keep in tune

 

[FeuerFrei]

I do this, it's called Contra tuning, so my bass is tuned BEAD

You will need to get your nut shaved to do this properly, and you'll want to have that done by a luthier.

I buy 5 string packs, and leave the G out.

 

[RickenBoogie]

+1 to that^.

 

[thirtypoint87]

DR Strings (through a dealer) will make custom sets, and most shops will carry single strings, you could build your own set that way. By "Drop B" I assume you mean B-F#-B-E, so maybe 130-95-75-55, or thereabouts?

good luck!

 

[LessIsmore]

By "Drop B" I assume you mean B-F#-B-E, so maybe 130-95-75-55, or thereabouts?
good luck!

Exactly! The E string on my previous tuning was 105 for a thicker sound, so i'll get something like 045-065-085-105-130. I know that i'll have to modify the bass nut too. I cant choose which of my basses to modify: Stingray or Warwick Infinity? Any suggestions (post-hardcore/doom metal music)?

 

[moshuajusic]

allparts sells a .130 nut file. Keep in mind you'll have to file the other 3 slots as well, unless you keep the first 3 strings G, D, and A. I've filed all the nuts on my guitars because I tune them to B standard with 13-56. I'm sure you can find instructions on it. It's not that big a deal that you'd need a tech. Just use a light touch and frequently stop to check the string height--fret the string at the 2nd fret, and see how much space there is between the string and the first fret. There should be a tiny bit of space. There, that's basically all you need to know! LOL

 

[Lorenzini]

Dean Markley Blue Steels

 

[knuckle_head]

.136 .092 .068 .052