Why the .80

[halibut]

This is probably a bit of a newbie question, by why do so many manufacturers consider 45, 65, 80, 105 a standard gauge set and 45, 65, 85, 105 a hybrid or non standard set?

Why the 80 instead of the evenly spaced 85?

[Kev]

I would not say that 45 65 80 105 was a normal set offered by manufacturers, or perhaps I am losing the plot?? I think Swing bass strings are this gauge, no others spring to mind without the help of Google.

I would think 45 65 85 105 or 45 65 80 100 would be more common.

[grandad]

http://thehub.musiciansfriend.com/bass-guitar-buying-guide/how-to-choose-the-right-strings-for-your-bass-guitar#gauges

[SH73]

Nice link

[halibut]

[quote name='Kev' timestamp='1462205207' post='3041080']
I would not say that 45 65 80 105 was a normal set offered by manufacturers, or perhaps I am losing the plot??
[/quote]

Sorry, perhaps I was being too generalist. Swing Bass was one of the string sets I had in mind, as was the Ernie Ball Cobalt Flatwounds. I'd also noticed that Epiphone fitted 45, 65, 80, 105 as standard (I'm looking for a new set for my Epi Thunderbird).

The question still stands, however. Why the .80 instead of a .85? why the slightly lighter A string? What are they aiming to achieve?

[JTUK]

You'll need t go thru a good few sets to know gauges suit you.

I do 40-120 on all basses

[chris_b]

I usually go for the fattest strings the company does. My DR's were 45-130.

[EssentialTension]

[quote name='halibut' timestamp='1462204614' post='3041074']
This is probably a bit of a newbie question, by why do so many manufacturers consider 45, 65, 80, 105 a standard gauge set and 45, 65, 85, 105 a hybrid or non standard set?

Why the 80 instead of the evenly spaced 85?
[/quote]

I'm not really interested in gauges. I use what I use because of how they feel and sound. My Precision has La Bella Deep Talkin' Flats 52-73-95-110

But my Lakland Decade now has DR Legend Flats 45-65-85-105, although for some time it had GHS Precision Flats but also 45-65-85-105. Those are both standard gauges as I understand it.