String Gauge Question For Lower Tunings

  • Thread starter Thread starter braintheory
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braintheory

Well-known member
I have a Mayones Regius that I wanna use for lower tunings (D or C# standard probably) and wanted to ask what string gauge you guys would recommend for that? For all my other guitars in E standard I like to use 10-46 gauge
 
I don’t know off hand, but you could use a string tension calculator to figure out the gauge that would give you about the same feel.
 
I get on string size/tension/tuning every now and then. I’m on one right now. I’ve tried all kinds of heavy strings and drop tuning. I mainly play 7’s and dropping the low B down to an A (standard D on other 6 strings) is just too low for me. Lowest I really like it is 1/2 step down with 10-46 and anywhere from 56-59 for the 7th string, so trying D’Addario 10-59 7 string set right now.

Anyway, if you like the feel of 10-46 in standard, then I’d just try 11-49 (or 52) and try Standard D. That would probably feel about the same.

Kalium Strings has a pretty good calculator:
http://store.kaliumstrings.com/TensionCalculator/tensionChart.php?scale_length=25.5
 
I'm using 12-54's in drop c on a six string.
 
I'll be the minority probably; but I use 11-56 for drop A#.
 
I think 11-50 would probably be what you're looking for? I believe most companies have a medium gauge of that.

I've been playing Light Top / Heavy Bottom 10-52 sets for years, but just switched to the D'Addario EXL117 - Medium Top, Extra Heavy Bottom (11 14 19 32 44 56) for the down a full step tunings and I've been liking the tighter low strings, the 56 is especially helpful if you're dropping your low string down.
 
If you are dead set on that specific tension (approx. 16-17 pounds), the 11-52 will be the closest you can get to keep a similar tension if you change do D tuning.

I would check out stratjacket's post. Get on a calculator and see what works best. If you buy from Kalium or someone who will sell individual strings you can potentially end up with the exact same tension you have or very close to.

If you are looking to buy a set EXL 116 is probably your best bet.

To add my opinion :) that is too tight on the low end....I tune to D and Drop C most of the time and use the EXL 115 which has slightly thinner bass strings. Feels amazing and still sounds great.
 
I’m setting up my les Paul in B so that I can play rhythm parts from songs that call for 7 string guitars on a 6 string. I am going to use a 7string set, but leave off the high e string. I figure that should be an easy way to get the right string tensions.
 
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