5 string gauges

rickengeezer · Post by **rickengeezer** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 7:27 am

Question for 5-stringers out there, especially Jeff! Has anyone done any experimenting with different gauges for the 4003s/5, particularly for the B-string? The factory set is 45-55-75-105-115, but I was wondering if there is any consensus about the virtues of a different lineup.

jwr2 · Post by **jwr2** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 8:22 am

The Ric strings are fine ... they are just a little more flexible ... I use Copley 125-105-80-65-45 ... I tried 130 gauge but that was a little thick ...

jeff_ulmer · Post by **jeff_ulmer** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 10:22 am

I find the stock B to be way too thin for me, since I detune a half step. I haven't bothered trying anything heavier yet.

rickenbrother · Post by **rickenbrother** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 10:32 am

I don't mind the factory set that came on my 4004/5Cii. except for the B string. That .115 gauge is way too light for my playing style. I like a .130 so it is reasonably tight.
If the 45-55-75-105 gauge pattern stayed the same on the 5 string set, the B string would be .135 but that would be too heavy.
I install .130 B strings on all my 5 string basses.

johnhall · Post by **johnhall** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 11:49 am

We've been in the process of switching to a .130 and everything shipping lately has been so equipped. The packaged sets will also be updated when current supplies are sold out.

gregson1 · Post by **gregson1** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 1:08 pm

That is good to hear, John, and thank you!

rickenbrother · Post by **rickenbrother** » Wed Mar 16, 2005 6:13 pm

That is good news! My trans red 4004/5Cii will come with a .130 B string...

rickengeezer · Post by **rickengeezer** » Thu Mar 17, 2005 6:00 am

Isn't the string spacing on the 4004/5Cii a bit more spread out than that for the 4003s/5? I'm wondering if a .130 might take up a bit too much real estate...Jeff, was that your experience?