changed regularly. To check if your strings need changing, run a finger underneath the string
and feel for dirt, rust or flat spots. If you find any of these, you should change your strings.
Many companies offer numerous variety of bass strings. Which should I use? That is a personal
choice that only trying each type out can answer. I go to the local guitar store and try out as
many as they have on their display models. Buying a set and discovering you don't like them
can become quite pricey after the second or third time.
TUNING KEYS
How you wind the strings onto the pegs is very important. Start by loading them through the
bridge and then loading them onto the appropriate keys as follows:
Standard keys.
I was taught after running the string through bridge to cut at the point of the next 2 tuning posts
and about ¼ to ½ inch beyond. Then put a 90 degree bend ½ to ¾ inch in from the cut end.
Then thread the end, bend and all into the post hole until you feel a click. That means the string
is set. Then hand wind one or two wraps around the tuning post clockwise as tight as your hand
will allow. Then while pressing the string down on the headstock with your right hand start your
tighten turns by hand for 2 or 3 turns. This will start the winding process. With your 3rd hand (jk)
use your winder to complete the process. Do not wind to tuning but tight enough where the
string will not untwist from the post. Do this for each string. Now a little imagination might be
needed for the D and G strings as there are not two posts beyond them. More imagination for
the G string especially.
For more in depth and specific instructions visit your manufacturer's site
Because of the amount of tension on the neck, it's advisable to replace and tune each new
string before removing the next string. After the whole set is changed and tuned, stretch your
strings properly by holding them at the first fret and hooking your fingers under each string (one
at a time) and then tugging lightly, moving your hand from the bridge to the neck. Re-tune and
repeat several times.
What a lot of instructions tend to leave out is many of the bass strings come silk wound at both
ends. It is possible after cutting to size for the silk to unwind. I myself like to put that 90 degree
bend approximately ½ to ¾ of an inch past th
INTONATION (ROUGHING IT OUT)
Note: I have never used this method. After all is done and ings are in tune I use the saddle
screws to adjust them to intonation no matter where they are initially set using the fine intonatis
step is unnecessary and time consuming.
