Moving from Low B to High C

[mikedm]

I?m considering changing from a BEADG string set up to EADGC.
 
Has anyone had any difficulties with using the smaller gauge strings in the larger notches on the nut and bridge? Rattle, noise, or buzz?
 
Recommendations on string sets?
 
thanks in advance,
Mike

[mica]

It's okay for a try, but if you like it, you'll like it better properly set up with grooves the proper size.  
 
In any event, the tension will differ, so you will surely need to adjust the truss rods and likely raise the bridge.  
 
We've made a few customers two sets of hardware - one for high  C the other for low B since they know they would be changing from time to time.

[mikedm]

Mica,
 
Thanks. If I do happen to like the high C, what information do you need from me to generate a new set of hardware? Would this include the tailpiece as well?
 
thanks,
Mike

[bob]

Mike,
 
Don't take this as gospel, but since Mica is apparently out for a few days, here are a few thoughts that might help.
 
- Since you're going from heavier to lighter strings, you shouldn't have to do anything with the tailpiece. The slots here might be wider than needed for the thinner strings, but it won't make any difference in sound.
 
- You'll need a new nut (probably just the top piece), and at least new bridge saddles, both to have smaller slots.
 
- If you can handle the slotting yourself, or have someone local who will do it for you, you can probably get away with a nut blank and a set of bridge saddles. Then it would be just a matter of filing slots to match the gauges of the new strings.
 
- If you are thinking about switching back and forth, then you might decide to spend the money for a complete second bridge, because disassembling to replace all the saddles, re-adjusting intonation, etc. would be a bit of a nuisance. But if you just want to try it for a while, a set of saddles alone would certainly be less expensive.
 
- If you want everything done for you by Alembic, you'll probably need to provide more detailed measurements of your existing hardware (in addition to the string gauges you intend to use). After all, these are handcrafted instruments, and even something as relatively simple as a nut may not always be interchangeable.

[mikedm]

Thanks Bob,
 
That's what I had expected to hear from Alembic.  
 
I was thinking about an easier way to get to the higher notes without cramming my fingers into frets 14-24 (who plays there?), LOL. It's my bass teacher's fault, he plays some sweet chords (he has a Rouge5 strung EADGC) and it's been rough trying to duplicate that on my fiver.
 
thanks,
Mike