Yes, you can certainly make a set of long scale strings work on a shorter scale length bass but you definitely need to choose your strings wisely.
Do short scale basses need different strings?
Yes. The shorter scams length means the string is under less tension, which chances both tone and playing characteristics. Different gauge strings will enhance tone and playability.
Can you put long scale bass strings on a medium scale bass?
Yes, it’s always best to use the right length/scale strings. If what you want really isn’t available anywhere ( it might be heresy, but there are alternatives to Bass Strings Online), then yes, you’ll probably be able to get away with using long scale strings.
Can bass strings be too long?
Make sure you get the right scale strings for your bass – most likely long scale. If your strings are too short, you won’t be able to put them on your bass! If they’re too long, you won’t be able to wrap them around the posts because they’ll be too thick at the end.
Can you Downtune a short scale bass?
You can downtune them if you’re willing to spend time tampering with the truss rod and saddles, and possibly filing down the nut for thicker strings. Detuning them isn’t the problem. Sounding good is the deal breaker.
Did paul McCartney play a short scale bass?
Famous Short Scale Bass Players
In fact, arguably the most famous living musician today uses them; Paul McCartney! Relying on a Hofner 500/1 “Violin” bass back in the ’60s when he was a part of The Beatles, McCartney is still often seen playing this distinctive 30” bass in his solo performances; over 50 years later.
Who plays short scaled bass?
Classic short-scale bass players from the 1960s and 1970s include Jack Casady (Jefferson Airplane), Phil Lesh (Grateful Dead), Bill Wyman (The Rolling Stones), and Jack Bruce (Cream). Of these players, Jack Bruce was one of the most emphatic short-scale enthusiasts.
Is a short scale bass easier to play?
Short-scale instruments also tend to cause less fatigue when playing for long periods. The shorter neck, closer frets, and lighter weight make things that much easier for your hands, shoulder, and back. In addition to differences in size, weight, and playability, short-scale basses also have a unique sound as well!
Is 34 a long scale bass?
The most common scale for an electric bass is 34”. This is called ‘long scale’. Some basses, especially 5-strings, are 35” scale. Extra long scale is longer than 34”.
What makes a bass short scale?
Over the years, ‘short-scale’ has come to mean any bass with a scale length 31″ and under, with the average being 30″ or thereabouts. While it may seem insignificant, subtracting four inches from a bass string’s vibrating length (standard scale length is 34″) profoundly impacts timbre and feel.
Why do you boil bass strings?
Boiling guitar and bass strings is a method of cleaning within their windings, between their outer layer and their core. The boiling water expands the winding and removes dirt from within the string, offering a deeper clean than surface-level wiping or applying string cleaning products.
What do dead bass strings sound like?
When they get old, you’ll also notice a pronounced lack of sustain and they will sound extremely dull. Many bass players describe the sound of dead bass strings as muffled or muddy. They look funky. Another telltale sign of strings gone bad is rust, dark spots, or other discolorations along the length of them.
How long do bass strings stay fresh?
Ordinarily, under normal usage, steel strings can last for 3 months or 100 playing hours in optimal conditions (bass strings could last a bit longer due to their density). Nylon strings, while not rusting, will lose considerable quality after 80 hours of playing time.
Is bass easier than guitar?
In a band environment, empathy for both instruments is really useful. But is it easier to play bass than guitar? Well, probably – less strings and no chords. Remember though that both will require mastering the basic building blocks of left/right hand coordination and rhythm, plus technique and scales.
What is the lowest bass tuning?
A regular four string bass has strings tuned at E A D G, with E the lowest.
What is drop D tuning bass?
What is drop D tuning? Drop D tuning is done by lowering the E string a whole step down to D. This makes the D note a fifth below the next highest string. This expands the tonal range of the bass and sounds “heavy”.
Can you slap a short scale bass?
I own 2 shortscale (30in scale ) basses and I’ve found that inn both of them they simply aren’t very responsive to a slap play style, especially the e string just sounds like a dull thud and lacks the clear ringing sounds I’m able to achieve while slapping and popping on a 34in or 32in scale bass.
What is considered a long scale bass?
On a modern bass guitar, 30″ (76 cm) or less is considered short scale; standard (also called long) scale is 34″ (86 cm) for a 4-string and 35″ (89 cm) for a B-E-A-D-G 5-string, and extra-long scale basses of 36″ (91 cm) also exist.
Did Paul play bass with a pick?
Paul played with a pick from his earliest days on the instrument, and continued this habit all throughout his career. It’s rare to find a Beatles where he plays with his fingers instead. Using a pick has a number of tonal advantages, particularly with the violin-style basses that Paul liked to use.
What is the difference between long scale and short scale bass strings?
So, while there’s an obvious visual difference between long- and short-scale basses, many players wonder: Do they sound different? Yes, definitely. For one thing, short-scale bass guitars sometimes use a slightly heavier string gauge than their long-scale brothers, which imparts a thicker tone.
How many frets are on a short scale bass?
Boasting five frets, ash or alder bodies, maple or rosewood fretboards, Fender pickups and electronics, and jumbo headstocks, these instruments will change the modern approach to bass forever.