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Alembic Club » Miscellaneous » Archive: 2005 » Archive through June 29, 2005 » String tension on extra long scale five strings « Previous Next »

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jlpicard
Advanced Member
Username: jlpicard

Post Number: 219
Registered: 7-2002
Posted on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 - 1:35 pm:   Edit Post

Can anyone speculate on the possiblity of having the capability of having lower action on an extended scale 5 ( 35-36")as opposed to a 34" because of the higher string tension not allowing as much string movement as it would on a 34"? If it did it would probably be a minute difference but I am curious if i am correct in this assumption? Or do you have to have the same amount of movement to get the same amplitude regardless of string length?
bob
Senior Member
Username: bob

Post Number: 468
Registered: 11-2002
Posted on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 - 1:53 pm:   Edit Post

If you used exactly the same strings on a longer scale, then yes, they would be under more tension, and higher tension strings will allow for slightly lower action.

Of course, 34" strings usually won't fit a 36, and sometimes not even a 35, it depends on the strings. And of course different brands, and different gauges, give you other options for more tension. And with the specific example of TI Jazz Flats, their 36" sets are designed to have more tension than the 34" (though it works out roughly the same as if you used 34s on a 36, if I remember correctly).

However, the effect on your action is likely to be small, as you suggest. You could do a lot better simply by using a lighter, more controlled touch.

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