Umair Gaines
Electric bass guitars need to be restrung periodically for a variety of reasons, including maintenance, performance, and personal playing style. The process of restringing involves three main phases: detuning and removing the old strings, installing the new strings, and stretching and tuning the new strings. This guide will provide a step-by-step overview of how to properly restring an electric bass guitar, ensuring that the strings are installed correctly and the guitar is adjusted for optimal performance.
Characteristics and Values Table for Stringing an Electric Bass Guitar
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools Required | Wire cutter, other cutting and winding tools |
| First Step | Detune and remove old strings one-at-a-time |
| Second Step | Install new strings by sliding them through the slots |
| Third Step | Stretch and tune the new strings |
| Additional Information | The diameter (gauge) of the strings affects string tension, truss rod (neck bow), action (string height), and intonation (saddle location) |
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What You'll Learn
Removing old strings
To start removing the old strings, first detune them. This is done by turning the tuner to loosen the string. It is important to note that you should never tighten the string until it breaks, as this could damage the guitar. Once the string is loose, pull it out through the bridge or body of the guitar. You can cut the strings to make them easier to remove, but this is not necessary. Be cautious when removing strings, as they can poke you.
With the old strings removed, you can now clean the fretboard and frets. Use a soft cloth to remove any built-up skin debris and polish the frets. If needed, you can also apply a small amount of oil.
It is worth noting that removing the strings is also a good opportunity to clean the guitar's fingerboard. This can be done with a soft cloth, following the specific care and maintenance instructions provided in the user manual.
Overall, removing old strings from an electric bass guitar is a simple process that can be completed by following a few careful steps.
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Choosing new strings
The choice of new strings for an electric bass guitar can be daunting, with a wide variety of types available. The right strings for you will depend on several factors, including your playing style, the genre of music, the desired tonal quality, and the scale length of your bass.
Firstly, consider the thickness or gauge of the strings. Thicker strings have a more robust tone but are more demanding on your fretting hand and require more finger strength. Lighter gauge strings, on the other hand, are easier on your fingers, making them a better option for beginners. The standard range for heavy-gauge strings is around .050 - .105, while lighter gauges typically range from .040 - .095.
The type of music you play can also influence your choice of strings. For example, if you play doom, metal, or stoner rock, you may require thicker strings that can withstand the tension of downtuning. In these cases, a heavy or extra-heavy gauge in the range of .050 - .115 is recommended. For a brighter, more balanced tone, Ernie Ball's Regular Slinky Bass strings are a popular choice among top-selling artists.
The material of the strings is another important consideration. The most common materials are nickel/steel or pure steel. Roundwound strings, which have ridges on the winding, are the most popular type and are used in various genres, from rock to jazz to country. Flatwound strings are also a good option, especially for fretless basses, as they produce a smoother feel and warmer tone while causing less wear and tear on the fingerboard.
Lastly, remember to match the string length to your bass's scale. Common scales include extra-long six-string basses (35"), Fender's Precision and Jazz models (34"), and Gibson's short-scale 30" SG models.
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Installing new strings
When installing the new strings, start by making a small bend in the end of the string to get it over the saddle easily. Pull the string through, ensuring the ball end is tight against the bridge. Pull the string tight, going about two tuners past the tuner you're stringing. Check that the strings are nice and tight behind the bridge and under the string trees.
After installing all the strings, it's important to stretch them well. Keep stretching until the guitar stays in tune. The diameter (gauge) of the strings affects string tension, which in turn affects the truss rod (neck bow), action (string height), and intonation (saddle location). Therefore, you may need to adjust the bass after changing the strings.
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Stretching and tuning
Some people prefer to stretch their strings before initial tuning. In this case, you can stretch, tune to pitch, then stretch again and retune. Repeat this process a few times, then play for an hour. After this, tune to pitch again and leave overnight to settle. The next day, tune occasionally as and when required.
It is worth noting that some bassists choose not to stretch their strings at all. They simply tune up to the correct pitch and then play for a while, tuning back to pitch every few minutes until the strings are stable.
Additionally, it is recommended to stretch your strings when you change them to stabilize your tuning. It usually doesn't need to be done more than twice on each string.
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Adjusting the bass
Adjusting the action of your bass guitar is a crucial step in ensuring optimal playability and sound. Here are the detailed steps and considerations for adjusting the bass:
Truss Rod Adjustment:
Firstly, check the neck relief or the truss rod, which is responsible for maintaining the correct amount of bowing in the neck. If your bass guitar has been buzzing since the beginning, the issue could lie in the saddle height or neck relief. Climatic conditions can cause movement in the neck, affecting the truss rod setting. Loosen the strings before making any truss rod adjustments to avoid stripping threads.
Action Adjustment:
The action refers to the distance between the strings and the frets. It is subjective and depends on your playing style. If you opt for a more relaxed approach or have a lighter touch, lower action will suit your playing style. On the other hand, if you play a lot of slap bass or have a strong pick attack, raising the action will provide sufficient space for string vibration.
Saddle Height Adjustment:
Each string on your bass guitar has two adjusting screws. Use a small Allen key or screwdriver to adjust each screw half a turn at a time until you achieve the desired height. If your bass guitar has been buzzing, it could be due to the saddle height sinking, which can be rectified by raising the saddle height.
Intonation Adjustment:
After making adjustments to the truss rod or bridge saddles, remember to reset the intonation. Move the bridge saddles towards the nut to shorten the string or away from the nut to lengthen it.
Measuring Action:
To measure the action, start by retuning your bass to pitch. Then, use a ruler to measure the distance from the top of the 12th fret to the bottom of your lowest string. Guitar techs often work in small increments, such as 64ths of an inch, for accuracy. Repeat the action-setting steps for each string and the treble side of the bridge.
Remember, if you're ever unsure about adjusting your bass guitar, consult a reputable luthier or technician for assistance.
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Frequently asked questions
Start by detuning and removing the old strings, then install the new strings, and finally stretch and tune them.
The only required tool is a wire cutter, but there are other useful cutting and winding tools that can make the process easier and more efficient.
Tune each string all the way down before cutting them one at a time. This allows the neck to relax and better adjust to the tension change.
Make a small bend at the end of each string to get it over the saddle, then pull it through, ensuring the ball end of the string reaches the bridge.
After stretching the new strings, tune the guitar. If it stays in tune after a couple of stretches, you know it's restrung properly.
