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Fifths Tuning

Fifths Tuning

Fifths tuning (also sometimes called "cello tuning") is an alternate tuning setup for upright bass that allows for a wider range of available notes (in the most common tuning, the low string drops from an E to a Low C) and a different approach to position-playing and soloing. The bass, as you may know, is normally strung in fourths (E-A-D-G, low to high) - and this tuning, which emulates the tuning intervals of a cello (C-G-D-A), can alter your approach as well as the tone color of your instrument. It also may be "easier" for a cello player switching to bass (or doubling on bass). However, the large scale of the instrument does mean larger stretches for your fingers, and probably more position changes to keep the notes you need under your hands. So you should know going in that it's definitely a big change in physicality and mindset.  

The two primary sets that are purpose-built for Fifths tuning are below; they are the strings offered from Thomastik-Infeld (Spirocores) and Pirastro (Obligato.) If neither of those options do it for you, we can often put together a custom set that can be tuned in 5ths; Here’s how we normally do it:

  • Low C: Use either a low B, or a dedicated low C string (a rare, but sometimes available option)
  • G:           Tune down a standard “A” string – preferably a “heavy” gauge one if available
  • D:           Standard D string
  • A:            A1 (top) string from a solo tuning set

And here are a couple of options that might work for you (all of these string options at Gollihur Music allow for single-string purchasing, so you can visit each linked page and grab the strings you need individually):

  • D'Addario Helicore Orchestra – Medium LOW B string (tuned up), HEAVY A String (tuned down), Medium D string + SOLO Orchestra A1 string
  • LaBella 77207720S Low C/B string (tuned up), 7720M A string (tuned down), 7720L D string, and 7720S A1 String
  • Pirastro Passione Passione Low B string (tuned up), Heavy A string (tuned down), D string + Passione Solo A1 string
  • Jargar Strings – Light Low B (tuned up), Heavy (Forte) A (tuned down), Medium D, Light G (tuned up)
  • Corelli 370370F Low B (tuned up), 370TX A string (tuned down), 370M D string, 360M A1 string
  • Pirastro PerpetualPerpetual Medium Low B (tuned up), Stark A string (tuned down), D string, and Solo tuning A1 string

There may be other options as well, those are just a few that came to me quickly. 

As always, drop us a line if you need some assistance. 

  • Sets & Singles Available
    Spirocore Red Mitchell 5ths Tuning Upright Bass Strings, standard package

    Spirocore Red Mitchell 5ths Tuning Upright Bass Strings

    Thomastik

    Our Low Price: $283.95
    Spiros are an old favorite for jazz and other genres and has been a popular string for many years. They were one of the first decent metal strings to be adopted by strictly gut string players-- in fact, lots and lots of us played G & D guts and A...
    FREE SHIPPING:
    To all 50 US States
    PRODUCT OPTIONS:
    Multiple Sets & Single Strings Available
    Our Low Price: $283.95
  • Sets & Singles Available
    Obligato Fifths Tuning Upright Bass Strings

    Obligato Fifths Tuning Upright Bass Strings

    Pirastro

    Our Low Price: $403.34
    This set is specifically designed for 5ths (aka "cello") tuning. From bottom to top, the tuning is C-G-D-A. Tuning these strings to standard E-A-D-G pitches will be incredibly difficult to play and probably damage your bass. Standard, and solo-tuning...
    FREE SHIPPING:
    To all 50 US States
    Our Low Price: $403.34