How to String a Bass Guitar

Stringing a bass guitar correctly is a critical skill for the bass player to master. A properly strung bass sounds better and stays in tune longer. Proper stringing also puts less stress on the bridge and neck, extending the life of the instrument.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bass guitar
• Bass guitar strings
• Cleaning cloth

1. Prepare the bass for stringing. If the guitar already has strings, gently loosen and remove them. With the strings off, wipe the fretboard and frets with a soft cloth to remove any dust.

2. Starting with the largest string, push the string through the first opening in the back of the bass. Feed the string through to the front and stretch all the way to the headstock of the guitar. Make sure the string is resting in the first string saddle and nut.

3. Insert the string into the first tuning post and pull some string through. Bend the string at a right angle and carefully rotate the tuning key counter clockwise to tighten up the string. Make sure to guide the string into place on the tuning post with your finger. Do not tighten all the way until all the strings are in place.

4. Repeat this procedure with the remaining strings one at a time, working from the largest string to the smallest in order.

5. Tighten all the strings and tune the bass once all the strings are in place. If necessary, cut off any excess string from the pegs with wire cutters. You are now ready to tune the bass.

Tips & Warnings

• A bass guitar string winder will save time when tightening the strings.
• Never cut the strings off a bass guitar. Loosen the strings and remove them from the tuning pegs to avoid damaging your guitar.