Taking Strings On & Off

[mimsy89]

Hello

This is going to sound completely dumb but....

I play in a metal band using a 5 string bass tuned to drop b (with high g#) but now I've got the opportunity to get some paid work but would require the bass to be in E standard with high B or C.

Eventually I will get anew bass but at the moment, the bank account does not allow it

So my question is, would taking the strings on and off to switch regularly for each band (ie practices gigs etc) cause damage to the bass/strings?

Thanks

 

[zontar]

You mean switch gauges for gigs?

 

[smeet]

It won't hurt the bass, but the strings maybe. The real problem is that you may need a different setup and even a recut nut for each set of strings, since the gauges are so different.

 

[FretNoMore]

Yes, the main problems will probably be your neck/truss rod setup and the intonation. Switching strings back and forth for dfferent rehearsals and gigs sounds like a lot of hassle.

And another thing, ideally I would want two basses for any paid work anyway, I want a backup in case something happens to the main bass. If you can't do that then you can't, but I'd look hard for a way.

 

[iiipopes]

You gotta do what you gotta do in the meantime to get gigs and earn $$$. Save all this new gig money to buy a second bass that you keep in standard tuning for conventional gigs. Question - if you are in "drop B" tuning, how do you get a G# on top? And wouldn't a conventional 5-string bass work so, if you have the different gigs, you can use the same bass with no problem?

 

[lz4005]

If you pick your strings and setup carefully you can get sets with equal tension so you won't have to adjust the truss rod every time. Minimal saddle moves for intonation will be all you need to do. Not ideal, but not a deal breaker in the short run.

Every time you take the strings off and on you're bending the metal and eventually it will break. Much sooner than strings that are never removed.

If it was me I'd sell the 5 and get a 6. That way you have both ends of the spectrum covered with one instrument.

 

[yodedude2]

it cannot possibly help the bass. if done carelessly, without regard to the warnings above, it could possibly hurt the bass beyond easy repair.

the strings will soon become fatigued, especially if they are twisted in any way during reinstallations. you are going to need lots more strings for this endeavor.