Table of content
1. How to Change Bass Guitar String
1.1. Remove and detune
1.2. Add new bass strings
1.3. Stretch and tune 
2. How frequently should you replace the bass strings?
2.1. Clean the filthy strings
2.2. Modify string requirements
3. FAQs

1. How to Change Bass Guitar String

The hardest part is choosing the bass guitar strings, but altering them is where all the tone magic happens. We’ll lead you through the three stages of string altering in the sections below: detune and remove, install new bass strings, and finally, stretch and tune. 

1.1. Detune and Remove 

Begin by deleting the old strings. This is the easiest step, so cut them one at a time; just tune the string all the way down before doing so. This helps the neck to relax and respond to the shift in tension. You don’t have to cut them, but we do since it makes them easier to remove. Although old strings are rarely reused, they can be used or recycled.

• Detune the bass string till it generates no pitch.
• Cut it around the pickup(s) region with wire cutters.
• Remove the bridge and tuning post.

The fretboard should be cleaned
Cleaning the fretboard of your bass guitar is easiest when the strings are removed. To clean built-up skin debris, use a soft cloth. For particular care and maintenance requirements, consult the user manual for your bass guitar.

1.2. Add new bass strings

Let’s replace the old bass strings now that the old ones have been removed. The essential thing to remember when installing new strings is to not overtighten them too quickly. This is due to the strings stretching and adjusting to the new tension. You should be able to install the new strings and bring them up to pitch, but they will need to be returned several times before they settle. 

Just be aware that if you tune up too high (above standard tuning), the bass strings may become overly stressed and snap. To avoid breaking, replace each string one at a time, paying close attention to which one is being replaced and which bass tuners key is being used to tighten it.

• Locate and put

Uncoil the bass strings after removing them from their box. Each string should be identified by either its packing label or the color of its ball end.

Insert the string into the appropriate bridge entry. Pull it through carefully, using your finger to keep it from grinding against the bridge hole. Align the string over the bridge saddle as well as the nut guides.

• Crimping and trimming

Guide the bass string from the nut to the middle of the tuning post, leaving no slack. Take an additional 2 – 3″ of string from the tuning post and bend (aka crimp) it at a 90° angle.
Trim an extra12″-1″ of string from the crimp using the wire cutters.

• Untwist and unwind

Eliminate the bass guitar string from the tuning post and push it roughly 4 – 6″ back out through the bridge to remove any twists that may have formed while tightening a string against the bridge. Replace the crimped end of the string in the tuning post and adjust the string on the nut and bridge saddle.

Tighten the string using the tuning key, making sure it is pushed down along the post beneath each preceding wind. As the ball end approaches the bridge, keep spinning the key and orient the string so that it is untwisted and has slack. Continue turning the key and guiding the string until the ball end is securely against the bass bridge.

1.3. Stretch and tune

After restringing, you’ll find that the bass strings continue to get out of tune. This is since they must adjust to the new stress. Stretching the strings is one approach to reduce the time it takes for them to adjust. Stretch the string over its full length to acclimatize it faster and stabilize the pitch. Repeat tuning, stretching, and stretching.

• Bring the string up to pitch with a tuner.
• Stretch the string lightly down its length (the fretboard).
• Repeat the tuning and stretching procedure until the pitch of each string has stabilized.

2. How frequently should you replace the bass strings?

The frequency with which you replace the strings on your bass guitar is up to you, but it truly depends on how you play the instrument. 

A studio bass guitar that is washed down every day and only lightly played with bass picks might endure a long time before needing to be restrung. A traveling bassist who uses their fingers, on the other hand, will most likely replace their bass strings more frequently to keep a constant tone at each gig. 

In either case, basses might be utilized for a single song or the entire show/album. If you just want your strings to survive longer before they need to be replaced, consider cleaning them using a string cleaner.

2.1. Clean the filthy strings

The most typical reason for changing bass strings is that they are unclean, have lost tone, or no longer keep in tune. Sweat, oils, and dead skin can be transferred when your fingers, palm, and arm come into contact with the strings. 

While a filthy guitar body may be readily cleaned, finger muck gets lodged in between the windings and alters the character and responsiveness of each string. If it is not removed after playing, it will eventually degrade the sound quality and limit sustain. Flatwound bass strings are an exception to this phenomenon. 

Because they lack the spiral holes found in circular wounds, they accumulate far less oil and debris. Furthermore, because they are inherently less brilliant, they will sound “the same” for longer and will not require as much restringing. 

2.2. Modify string requirements

Aside from normal wear and tear, you may want to alter the bass strings to suit your playing style. Each manufacturer and line of strings has a different tension, tone, and feel, so there are many possibilities when purchasing a new set. 

Changing the bass string gauge will alter the tension (playability), but it will also necessitate a new setup to suit the new string specs. The frequency content changes as the material (nickel, stainless steel, nylon, etc.) are changed (bright vs. warm).

• Change one or more strings.
• Replace worn or filthy strings (those that will not remain in tune or have a loss of tone).
• Modify the playability (tension or feel)
• Make a certain sound (sound characteristics)
• Choose new strings

There are several reasons to change the strings, but there are also several reasons to choose one set over another. Select a set whose specs complement both the performance and your playing style. 

3. FAQs

Is it simple to replace bass strings?

Although stringing a bass guitar is not difficult, there are certain crucial things to remember to achieve a decent sound, remain in tune, and maintain your bass guitar in excellent operating order. Before restringing your bass, go over the complete string changing guide.

How often should bass strings be changed?

Some individuals never change the strings on their instruments. “The funk is in the funk,” declared James Jamerson, who never altered his strings. Others who want a loud tone or play frequently may replace bass strings every week or two. I recommend that my average time change or clean them every 3-4 months.

How do you tell when your bass strings need to be changed?

• Your bass is out of tune, and/or you can’t intonate it correctly. Frequently checking or adjusting the tuning.
• They sound lifeless.
• They appear strange.
• They’re starting to fall apart.

It’s time to change your bass guitar string. If yours need to be replaced, do it now.