Spector Performer 5 Classic String Gauges?

[Koldov]

Hi All,

I have just purchased a Spector 5 string from ebay and managed to change out the dead strings from one of my old 4 strings.

The only issue I have now is the low B string and I need to change it but don't know what gauge it is.

I know string size is a matter of personal preference, but I've never played a 5 string and don't have time to find out what suits as I need it urgently and don't have time to mess with the nut or bridge.

Does anybody know what string gauge the low B on these came with from the factory so I can easily swap it out? Also, does the 35" scale length mean I need to be careful what strings I get as when I tried to swap out the E string from another bass, the outer winding was going to end up the wrong side of the nut!

Many thanks in advance.

Kol.

Edit - Ok, I couldn't wait....

Local shop only had a Trace Elliot (?) .130" BLX...

The top winding only just comes over the nut and the winding for the stopper at the bridge needed hammering (just a little) then pulled through when tuned to pitch, that is a REALLY tight hole (and I don't normally complain about those).

Also the only part that fits round the peg is a piece of core wire with just a little of the inner winding wire, is that going to hold?!

I found out that it's a really OLD string, here is the blurb from somewhere or other:

Now discontinued, these strings were made for Trace Elliott for many years. They are handwound in a single direction and the core mass of each string is carefully specified to ensure a uniform tension and feel when tuned to pitch. By stepping down the windings over the bridge [b](I think they mean [b]tapered after[/b] the nut)[/b] on the heavier gauges, the sustain and clarity of E and B strings are significantly improved.
Single Ball End, Roundwound, Nickel.
6 String Heavy Gauge; .030, .045, .065, .085, .105, .130.

The .130 doesn't sit perfectly in the nut (so I'm going to guess it originally had a .125 or something) but it's good enough for now.

Edited June 13, 2016 by Koldov

[Koldov]

Well, as I suspected - here is the response from the lovely people at Spector bass (my comment in bold):

Thank you for your email.

Sorry for the delay in the response. [b](which was only a day!) [/b]

The bass would have shipped with generic nickel strings made in Asia. Most likely gauge 45-125

Your best bet would be to get a set of Stainless Steel strings which would have a bit more zing and bite then Nickel strings.

Any of the name brand 45-125 sets would be recommended.

Possibly Dean Markley Blue Steels or D'adarrio Pro Steels these are usually readily available in most local stores.

If you go with Nickel Strings, you are probably best to go with D'adarrio Nickel XL's these are the strings that ship on our Euro series basses.


Regards,
Spector Customer Relations