Drop tuning, strings and setup?

  • Thread starter Thread starter SkyhighRocks
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SkyhighRocks

SkyhighRocks

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Hey guys

I need to have a guitar set to drop B tuning for a few songs. So far we're not having any luck getting the guitar to not sound flubby and loose. I went with 11s for strings which seemed to help a little but it still needs to be better. Any tips or tricks out there to keep a guitar tight sounding tuned this low?
 
don't play so hard :lol: :LOL:

Actually, I heard Ty Tabor say that for the Manic Moonlight album, they were tuned to drop B, and just used regular 9-42 strings, but barely hit the strings. I say go with something like an 11-56 set. I used to use those all the time, and they work great for drop tunings. I think DR makes them, or t least used to. It also helps if you have a 25.5 scale neck.
 
Part of the problem is that it's a fender strat...we have no other choice. The strings are 11-56 I believe. I'm wondering if adding another spring for the trem will help with the tension? Obviously the guitar will need to be re-intonated, etc...

as for playing easier, that's tough because the songs are pretty quick....or quicker than all the other stuff we're doing.
 
Maybe try blocking the trem. I usually try to leave drop tuned stuff to hard tailed guitars if I can. Adding another spring is always an option though.
 
I'm in drop C for my original band and 11-54 is the best I've found for keeping a good, even tension. I couldn't see dropping those another full step and it still keeping together, especially if you have a heavy right hand. I'd say at least try 12's. Now that I think about maybe try some Curt Mangan strings. His fusion matched nickel wounds I had were very bright with nice focused sound & response. They had a bit more tension than other brands of the same gauge. He's got some pretty unique set in terms of gauges. I'd definitely check him out and see if he's got a set that looks like it would work for you. http://www.curtmangan.com/products/elec ... kel-wound/
 
I just use 7 string guitar strings and don't use the the high string. Stays tight and in tune.
 
SkyhighRocks":3ctco2u7 said:
Part of the problem is that it's a fender strat...we have no other choice. The strings are 11-56 I believe. I'm wondering if adding another spring for the trem will help with the tension? Obviously the guitar will need to be re-intonated, etc...

as for playing easier, that's tough because the songs are pretty quick....or quicker than all the other stuff we're doing.
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I recommend tightening the trem claw. Quarter turns at a time. Pete L. from Chevelle used a Strat tuned to B on Vena Sera along with his usual PRS', so It can be done. The guitars nut slots are probably too small though, and the vintage style saddles aren't the best for that kind of thing either. So keep that in mind.
 
I used to use 12-56 or 13-60 for drop b, but that was on a LP. With the longer scale strat neck you could get by with 11-54 or even lighter. The tuning keys and bridge play a big part in drop tuning stability. PRS guitars are friggin amazing at staying in tune with low tunings.
 
I use 9-54 on my 7 string w/trem. The string size from B-B is .011 - .054 and I don't have any trouble.
 
PLaying theory of a Deadman are we?

I use 14-59 in C#/dropped B on a 25.5 schecter.

I need to get longer neck guitars... I don't wanna start using over a 60 again...
 
11, 16, 19 or 20 plan, 32, 50, 60 or 11, 15, 19p, 32, 46, 58/59 for B depending.

I've been using these gauges for years (I've been playing in B and A# almost 100% exclusively since 2002) with no issues in intonation, tuning stability, tone or feel as long as you have a good set up on your guitar.

This is on Paul Reed Smith guitars, by the way.
 
caparison hgs their designed for low tuning and come set up for b
 
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