Fionn Posted May 17, 2020 Share Posted May 17, 2020 I use light gauge (40-60-70-95) Ernie Ball Cobalt Flats on all my basses. This gauge/ tension is perfect for me. I’d like to drop tune one of my basses to C-F-A#-D# (standard 34” scale). I love the specific character of the EB Cobalt flats, so I’d like to stick to this brand. I can’t use their 5-string set as their only available gauge is too high. Their heaviest 4-string set is 55-75-90-110. I wonder how this set would work at that tuning? Specifically, would the 110 go down to C without losing definition? I reckon I could live with that tension. Are there any other factors that I’m failing to consider here? I could switch brand and put the low-4 of a light gauge 5-string set on there, but I’d rather not. There’s no string like the EB cobalt flats. Just wondering what I can get away with, tuning down that heavy set. What do you reckon? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ClassicVibes Posted May 20, 2020 Share Posted May 20, 2020 I reckon you could get away with that. I use a 105 gauge for drop D and it sounds good. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ezbass Posted May 20, 2020 Share Posted May 20, 2020 I use the 45-100 set and have a drop D tuner, sounds and feels fine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EssentialTension Posted May 20, 2020 Share Posted May 20, 2020 Ernie Ball do single strings - https://www.ernieball.com/guitar-strings/bass-strings/bass-single-strings/slinky-flatwound-electric-bass-single-strings#P10855 If you contacted them with your problem they may be able to suggest a balanced set for the tuning/tension you want. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Delberthot Posted May 24, 2020 Share Posted May 24, 2020 I use a 110 E string so that I can tune down to B when I need it. I need to exercise some self restraint when tuning down to the B as it does get a tad floppy ( I use a 130 B string when playing 5s ) but if you are using a light gauge to begin with then you should get away using a 110 tuned to C Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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