Tension question

[insomniac2295]

So, I'm shopping around for some new strings and I figure that this time around, I'd do some research and get a proper 4 string set for Drop C tuning (CGCF) that has a similar tension to a 4 string set tuned up in Standard Tuning.

Checked out the D'Addario Tension Chart ([Invalid or Expired Link Removed]) and came up with
.135
.095
.070
.050

Now, this all seems to be about right except for the .135
Is it just me, or does .135 seem to be way too heavy for a C?

 

[Hollywars]

.135 might not be too heavy, but it might not fit in your current nut without some filing. On my 6-string, I use a .135 for a B, and it's still a little floppy.

 

[insomniac2295]

.135 might not be too heavy, but it might not fit in your current nut without some filing. On my 6-string, I use a .135 for a B, and it's still a little floppy.

Really? I can't imagine using anything larger than a .135 for B

Yeah, I already had to file down the nut to fit the .120 that I have in for the low C right now.

 

[SwamiRob]

That's just the way it works really, it's all due to the scale length not differing causing a lack of tension as you get lower, that's why a bass is so big in the first place obviously, and why fanned fret basses we're developed to even the whole thing out a bit without having such a contrast in string gauge.

The 135 is a big step, but if you take into consideration that on a 110 setup in standard tuning to get a balanced(ish) set you have 110 85 60 45, so there's a gap of 25 between the A and E, whereas you have an extra 2 semitones between your G and C, plsu the lower you go the bigger the increase needs to be in tension inbetween notes to keep it even.

With that setup though you'll have a really nice sounding C though, unlike the horrible floppyness you usually get with downtuning.

 

[knuckle_head]

.135 is a great B string, and if you dig high tension you might like it for C.

If you want to go lighter consider;

.130 .088 .064 .049
.124 .084 .064 .046
.118 .080 .061 .046

...or gauges close to that.

 

[SwamiRob]

I assume your plugging your own strings with those gauges how's the European distro going? Or is that a while off still?

 

[knuckle_head]

The only other brand that offers up unit weight data is D'Addario. And besides, I like mine better.



I am in discussions with a Northern Euro brick and mortar - it could come together more quickly than I had hoped, but that counting chickens thing has me biting my tongue.