Where can I get custom strings?

[Crowgarno]

I have a six string bass and want to tune it to match the tuning of an eight string guitar. The tuning I want is Eb0, Ab0, Db1, Gb1, B1, E2. I currently have five strings (135, 105, 85, 70, and 50) tuned to Ab, but the strings sound too floppy. I saw at Conklin's website they have a 165 gauge, but I've heard it's too floppy to be tuned any lower. Does anyone know where I can get strings made for my tuning?

 

[knuckle_head]

I have gauges you can use to get where you want to, and Octave 4 Plus makes custom gauges.

What's your scale length and bridge type?

 

[Crowgarno]

It's a 34 inch scale length and think it's a saddle bridge.

 

[FunkMetalBass]

I think by "bridge type" he was referring to top-load or through-body. What bass do you have?

 

[Crowgarno]

My bass is an Ibanez GSR206.

 

[ixlramp]

In my opinion Link Removed are the best designed strings for such low tunings (I tried the Conklin / SIT .165 and wasn't impressed).
I can't access the site currently but when it's up check out the single strings page, you can use the Circle K tension chart pdf to create a set with equal tension on each string.

 

[knuckle_head]

Does your bass match this one?

You'll be challenged by that bridge - you'll likely have to ream out at least the low Eb string's ball end capture hole. I can talk you through that if that's your circumstance.

 

[Crowgarno]

Yes that's the bass I play, and I think I would have to modify my nut as well, since it already has slots the width of the strings.

 

[knuckle_head]

Absolutely - a new nut will need cutting.

If you don't feel comfortable doing this then find someone who is, but you can ream out a 3/16(5mm) hole and still capture any industry standard ball end quite securely. You will need to to get the gauges you'll want for Eb.

At standard pitch, what gauge do you like for 40 Hz E? That will give me an idea of the tension you prefer.

 

[Crowgarno]

I like lighter gauges because I play with a pick and they're easier to press down on the fingerboard. And where can I get a new nut?

 

[knuckle_head]

If you like .095 for E on a standard bass and you want similar feel and playability you will want a string that approaches .200 for Eb.

 

[Crowgarno]

What gauges for the other strings would you recommend?

 

[knuckle_head]

It really depends on how light you want to go - each of these is pretty light as 'normal' goes;

.190 .142 .106 .079 .059 .043

or

.200 .150 .112 .082 .061 .045

 

[OOZMAN]

I have a six string bass and want to tune it to match the tuning of an eight string guitar. The tuning I want is Eb0, Ab0, Db1, Gb1, B1, E2. I currently have five strings (135, 105, 85, 70, and 50) tuned to Ab, but the strings sound too floppy. I saw at Conklin's website they have a 165 gauge, but I've heard it's too floppy to be tuned any lower. Does anyone know where I can get strings made for my tuning?

circle K ftw