Bass guitars have thicker strings, so many people think it will be challenging to restring.
But don’t worry – follow our guide and easy tricks, and you’ll never have a problem restring a bass guitar strings.
What tools do we need to change a bass guitar string?
We need just two things:
- New set of strings
- Wire cutters
Optional: We advise you to use a Neck cradle or headstand because the guitar must be well-balanced and still while you work on it.
Follow these easy steps to learn how to restring your bass guitar
Remove the old strings
We de-tune the first string until it is entirely loose, then pull it from the tuner. Then, depending on the bass type, we pull the string either through the bridge or the instrument’s body.
Sometimes it may be challenging to grip the string, and it’s helpful to begin by pushing it and then pull it out.
Clean the bass guitar
After removing all the strings, we can clean the guitar.
The bass manufacturer should have recommended the most suitable cleaning method. Still, we can use a clean, soft cloth if we don’t have everything necessary.
Prepare the new string
Each string has a specific place where it should be set, so we need to make sure we put it in the right one.
We can read what it says on the package or look at the color ball at the end of the string.
Insert the New Strings
We insert the new strings (one at a time) through the bridge and carefully pull them out. Then align the strings over the nut guides and bridge saddle.
Cut the new string
We pull the string to the tuning post and measure 2-3 inches more. Then bend the string at a 90-degree angle and attach this part to the tuner. After that, we measure an additional inch or half an inch from where the string is bent and cut it off using the wire cutters.
Another way to do it is by measuring the new strings using the old ones as a template. We do this before we insert them through the bridge.
We place the strings side by side on a flat surface and cut the new string to the same length as the old one.
Tighten the new string
We turn the tuning key to the right, trying to keep the string pressed against the post. We do this until the ball end is secure on the bridge. We must be careful that the string is not too tight.
Tune the new string
We can do this by ear or using an electric tuner.
It’s normal for strings to go out of tune at the beginning because of the tension.
We should stretch each string by pulling it gently around the 12th fret. Then tune in again. If necessary, we repeat the stretching.
FAQs
How often should I change my bass strings?
It depends mostly on the player’s style.
The more you play, the more often you’ll need to change strings. But if you maintain your strings properly, you can extend their life.
Some bass players mention that they don’t have to change strings as often if they use a pick.
How quickly do the strings of a bass guitar break?
If the strings are thicker, they will break less often, and more frequently if the strings are harder.
And as we said above: The more you play, the more often you’ll need to change strings.
What can go wrong while changing the strings on a bass guitar?
- Picking the wrong strings
- Putting the strings in the wrong order
- Taking all the strings out of their packages at once
- Scratching the body of the guitar while placing the strings
- Cutting the string too short
- Winding the string in the wrong direction
- Overtightening the string
- Not stretching the strings after we place them
Why does my bass sound bad after I restring it?
It depends on the situation.
You may have chosen the wrong strings, which will noticeably affect the sound after restringing the bass. Before you begin restringing you should ensure that you are using strings that meet the requirements for the bass model.
You can also research which type of strings fits your playing style.
Another reason could be that the strings are not installed correctly. You may have set the strings too close to the pickup poles or tuned the bass slightly lower than you prefer.
These things shouldn’t bother you. It happens often, especially if you’re doing it for the first time.
How much will it cost to have my strings replaced by a professional?
Usually, this kind of service costs up to $50 or even more. If you do it yourself, you will pay only the price of the new strings.
Is it harder to change strings on a bass than on a guitar?
Changing strings on a guitar is considered easier than restringing a bass. For a beginner, both may seem difficult. However, it depends on the person doing it.
Conclusion:
We know that changing the strings of a bass guitar is not a favorite activity for the players, but it is essential for the good performance of the instrument.
Follow our easy steps to do it, and you will see how easy it can be.
Gary has been in love with music since he was a child. His passion is guitars and everything related to them. He is the founder of
Riff-Mag and can’t wait to share his knowledge with you.