Why aren't B string nuts cut larger?

[songwriter21]

Never mind the bass manufacturers, you should concentrate your efforts on the string manufacturers.

I was just checking out bassstringsonline.com, arguably THE most comprehensive collection of bass strings around, and it wasn't easy trying to single out which strings were balanced tension. There are quick filter buttons for several categories but none for balanced tension. The best you can do is search balanced then sift through the seventy odd results.

FTR, my preferred 5 string set is available with a .125 or a .130. I always get the .130.

Not to hijack this thread...am I the only one that thinks [Invalid or Expired Link Removed] has always had more bass strings than bassstringsonline.com?

 

[Systolic]

Going to a 145 B solved my floppy problems.

Certainly does make a big difference. I use either a .142 (35" scale) or a .150 (34" scale) for normal B. I usually keep a 5'er a half step down as well. Using a .158 for the Bb.

 

[Moe Monsarrat]

You can remove material to make the string fit. You can't add material.

 

[micahwc]

145 b string on a 34" MIM Jazz solved all my problems and I haven't looked back since.

 

[MasterBlaster]

How do you measure neck length? From the nut to the end of the last fret?

 

[Doner Designs]

And the corollary to this is that it is easy to make a nut slot deeper, hard to make it shallower. If you buy a custom bass then the nut should be cut to your preferences. If you buy a mass produced bass then it is entirely reasonable to expect to have to do some nut adjustments if your tastes are far from the norm. I suspect I would not like a nut cut the way some of you do and I am glad that Fender, Ibanez, etc do not cut them that way!

I prefer to cut my own nuts.

 

[Systolic]

How do you measure neck length? From the nut to the end of the last fret?

Without delving too deep, Its 34" or 35"from the nut to the saddle, with the saddle pushed forward at about 7/8 of its travel. On the G string would be the best place to check.

 

[Systolic]

I want to make a joke about nuts & G-strings so so bad!

Do it. I won't be mad. Promise.

 

[Bassnomer]

Can someone post the gauges for a balanced tension 5 string set please? With the E-G being roughly in the "medium" (.105 - .45ish) range?

 

[Killed_by_Death]

String Tension Pro

The first one is from my own determination that 33 lbs/in is about as low as I can go.

 

[Bassnomer]

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String Tension Pro

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Thank you, Sir