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 7720 – 7720S 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 370 – 370F Low B (tuned up), 370TX A string (tuned down), 370M D string, 360M A1 string
• Pirastro Perpetual – Perpetual 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.