Author Topic: Strings (Read 203 times)

hammer · « **on:** August 20, 2014, 04:08:14 PM »

I just purchased a 6-string 34 long scale Maple Europa and was wondering what those who also play 6-stringers use for strings including gauge. In addition, do I need to go extra long or will long suffice.

mica · « **Reply #1 on:** August 20, 2014, 07:31:03 PM »

For scale length it depends on the manufacturer - I know for most long scale Alembics you need to get extra-long scale D'Addario strings.

edwin · « **Reply #2 on:** August 21, 2014, 10:46:23 PM »

I really like DR Sunbeams on my Modulus Q6, which is a 35 scale. I usually use .120-.030, but for some reason I'm thinking of stepping up a size. Their standard length strings will fit perfectly.

xlrogue6 · « **Reply #3 on:** August 22, 2014, 09:27:05 AM »

For rounds, my Rogue 6 likes Elixirs--the extra long scale set fits the 35 scale of the Rogue just fine. .130-.030. On the fretless I'm using D'Addario Chromes, only available in one gauge in extra long.

keith_h · « **Reply #4 on:** August 22, 2014, 10:25:24 AM »

I don't have a 6 but on my 34 scale fretless Orion I used long scale D'Addario Chromes. They claim they will fit scale length up to 36 1/4 inches. They also make what they call super long in some lines for 6 string basses up to 38 inches.

Keith

hammer · « **Reply #5 on:** August 22, 2014, 02:35:49 PM »

Thanks for the ideas. I typically use TI Flats on my Signatures (or D-Chromes) but for some reason the new 6-string Europa has a much mellower sound than either of my other basses (even though it currently sports an old set of roundwounds on it). I like the tone I get when playing with a pick but need to make significant adjustments for finger work. The only thing I can

bigredbass · « **Reply #6 on:** August 24, 2014, 06:08:36 PM »

Both of mine are 'standard' long scale (34) and I've always bought long scale strings (. . . . tried lots of different brands . . . . ) and have never been caught out by the windings being too short.

I have from time to time been glad I 'read the fine print': GHS and LaBella both make strings sets where only the E (or the E+B in my case) are exposed core, like the old SuperWounds. If the entire set was that way, you could just raise the whole bridge. I've skipped sets like this as I didn't want to have to use two separate bridge saddles just for them, and I'm not sure I could raise the bridge enough on that one side to make them work. Just haven't been inclined to try it.

J o e y