why do same scale length bass's have different string tensions?

[iconic]

I have the same strings fitted across all my basses and they all seem to have different tension, all 4 string, all 34" scale (all bar a gnats cock), all on Fender Superbass rounds.

The slackest is my Squier VMJ, tightest is my Yamaha BB414, the rest fall somewhere inbetween....but I can't see why, wouldn't they all have the strings in the similar tension, the same string needs to be in the same tension to create the same note...doesn't it?

.....confused I am?

Obviously a very good and no doubt simple reason....?

I do prefer a slack string.

Edited November 5, 2012 by iconic

[BigRedX]

If the basses all have the same scale length, are strung with the same make and gauge of string and all tuned to the same pitch then the tension in each corresponding string on each bass will be the same.

However what will be different in each bass will be the [url="http://liutaiomottola.com/myth/perception.htm"]compliance[/url] of the strings. This is how "stiff" the string feels and is dictated by factors such as string construction and what happens to the string beyond the witness points (bridge and nut).

Edited November 5, 2012 by BigRedX

[EssentialTension]

What BRX said - but also, even if the strings are all the same make and gauge, strings will be made within a certain tolerance so one packet/one string may well differ if only slightly from another so producing a small change in tension.

[chrismuzz]

[quote name='BigRedX' timestamp='1352137098' post='1859223']
However what will be different in each bass will be the [url="http://liutaiomottola.com/myth/perception.htm"]compliance[/url] of the strings. This is how "stiff" the string feels and is dictated by factors such as string construction and what happens to the string beyond the witness points (bridge and nut).
[/quote]

This!

It mostly depends on the angle of the string past the nut, and the bridge. Stringing basses through the body instead of the bridge will result in a much tighter feel.

[EssentialTension]

[quote name='chrismuzz' timestamp='1352138525' post='1859254']
... Stringing basses through the body instead of the bridge will result in a much tighter feel.
[/quote]
I know some people have this experience but I've never been able to tell any difference.

[MrTaff]

I've noticed is that even with the same strings on the same bass, if you lower the action, it feels like the tension is lower.

[stingrayPete1977]

[quote name='EssentialTension' timestamp='1352139023' post='1859260']

I know some people have this experience but I've never been able to tell any difference.
[/quote]

Funnily enough I have just bought another pre EB Ray, it's string through only and does feel
much tighter than my '82 pre EB that is top load only so I can concur with the theory, EB strings on identicle basses both set up from scratch by me only difference is the bridge. I can see why some basses were offered with string through or top load bridges.