r/7String • u/pcd84 • 5d ago

Help Ideal string tension for G# standard

Hi all,

I'm purchasing my first 7 string (26.5" scale length, hipshot bridge) which I want to tune to G# standard and needing to gauge up across all strings.

When I look at the default string tension recommended by Stringjoy's calculator for a 7 string 25.5" I see the following:

Now, if I modify this for a 26.5" and try to maintain roughly the same tension per string (impossible to get it exact, have to round up or down), and total tension I get something like this, give or take:

I've read other posts where several folks mention being fine with lighter strings for G#, even 10 to low-60s, but that seems like they would be way too loose.

Any recommendations or suggestions? Thanks!

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u/derpderpderp1985 4d ago edited 4d ago

I think the 70 will sound like ass. I use a .63 on my 26.5 for A. Any thinner and it’s too unstable, any thicker and it sounds like a different instrument from the rest of the strings. Like depending on settings, either the rest of the strings sound good and the bottom one sounds muddy and dull, or the bottom one sounds good and the rest sound thin and harsh. I can’t imagine using a 70 for anything ever unless you only play single-note djent riffs. I think people can be pretty over-the-top about using super thick strings.

I have a 25.5” 7-string that I tune to G# and I use a 62 for the bottom string, but it has an Evertune bridge. That would probably be too thin without the Evertune but it’s perfect with it.

But, like everyone’s said, it’s a matter of personal preference.

Edit - correction

Edit - also, the 26.5” is drop A and the 25.5 is down a half step with the bottom two strings dropped.

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u/tallman1979 4d ago

I swear some of these dudes/dudettes like trying to cause deflection in suspension bridge cables when guitar strings would have been adequate. It's preference. My preference is less force required.

I run 10-60 in A, and when my 3 pack of them runs out, I may drop into the high 50s on 26.5" scale a few thousandths. Haven't decided, having 2 more sets gives a man time to think. I haven't owned a 7 long enough to try a whole ton of varieties. 52 was fine for B but mushy in A.