[fyrie]

I'm going to be auditioning for a metal band next week that uses a B tuning on a 6 string. I have an older RG 570 I want to setup for this. Can anyone recommend a string gauge? I usually play 9s, but I know that those would be way too slack at a B tuning.

 

[horstausmforst]

I'd try getting a 7-sting set (or a .009 set + additional b string) and stringing the guitar up like a 7.. without the high e string, of course.

 

[brothersnowgone]

It really depends on personal preference. Most people would say 10-56 would do, but for me thats too floppy. What gauge are you using now and in what tuning?

 

[rty13ibz98]

drop a set of 11's or 12's on it. you will need to do a setup for either, but the fat low b and lower tuning will get it closer to feeling like 9's or 10's.


rich

 

[fyrie]

Getting it set up to feel like 9 or 10s would be great. My current tuning is standard E with 9s. Thanks for all the info people!

 

[darren wilson]

I'd definitely go with at least 11's.

 

[ZOMB13]

my band uses CFCFAD tuning, and we use 13's..

 

[AlexBLA]

if u have the money i would get a RG7321

 

[fyrie]

If I get in the band, I'd probably pick up a Shecter just because they make a lot of bad-ass looking 7 strings. However, no free-floating trem could seriously cramp my style. I might have to snag a Jem 777.

 

[horstausmforst]

the .052 string in a regular .011 set would be way too thin for a low b; even if you're used to playing .009s.
Going the route of a regular set, I'd choose a .013 set.

 

[fyrie]

Ok... The journey continues. I picked up a set of D'Addario EXL115s (.011 - .049) because I am really hesitant to go to a wound 3rd for obvious reasons. However, I'm thinking it is inevitable. I can play the thing, but it's way too slack for my tastes.

By the way... I am really liking the voicing. All of the sudden most of my songs sound more evil.

 

[dot-dot-dot]

13s if you want enough tension for it to be playable.

 

[fyrie]

I threw a set of EB “Not Even Slinky”s on tonight (12-56, 3rd not wound). It plays really well. It really makes the 9s on my Jem7vsbl sound like ****.

 

[slugman]

I have 13s on a 550 tuned to B, and I can hardly stand it. Too much tension, and I have the action rather high up to deal with the buzzing.

 

[slugman]

I ordered a set of D'Addario jazz 12s. Should be here at the end of the week, I'll see how it goes. The 13s are just too hard to play. Also got a pack of hybrid strings.

 

[ibanezrg520kid]

i would just buy a 7string.....