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Contrabass (Double Bass) String Tensions
This table shows the tensions that result from the standard gauges available for the contrabass (double bass). The string length is assumed to be about 97cm and the pitch standard is assumed to be a=415. If the string length on your instrument is a little longer, then the tension will be a little more. If the string length on your instrument is a little shorter, then the tension will be a little less. You can use this table to find out what sort of tension you are using on your instrument. Each string is listed with a type of gut that is appropriate for the string position.
If you have any questions about string tensions that are not answered here, please contact us.
| Diameter | Tension | ||
| Note | in mm | in Kg | |
| Contrabass G-1 Lyon or Pistoy gut | |||
| G | Light | 2.00 | 13.40 |
| G | Light+ | 2.06 | 14.20 |
| G | Medium | 2.10 | 14.80 |
| G | Medium+ | 2.16 | 15.70 |
| G | Heavy | 2.20 | 16.20 |
| G | Heavy+ | 2.26 | 17.20 |
| Contrabass D-2 Lyon and Pistoy gut | |||
| D | Light | 2.80 | 14.80 |
| D | Light+ | 2.86 | 15.40 |
| D | Medium | 2.90 | 15.80 |
| D | Medium+ | 2.96 | 16.50 |
| D | Heavy | 3.00 | 16.90 |
| D | Heavy+ | 3.06 | 18.40 |
| Contrabass A-3 Pistoy gut | |||
| A | Light | 3.80 | 15.25 |
| A | Light+ | 3.86 | 15.75 |
| A | Medium | 3.90 | 16.10 |
| A | Medium+ | 3.96 | 16.60 |
| A | Heavy | 4.00 | 16.90 |
| A | Heavy+ | 4.06 | 17.40 |
| Contrabass A-3 Copper / Silver plate wound on gut | |||
| A | Light | 2.56 | 15.25 |
| A | Light+ | 2.62 | 15.75 |
| A | Medium | 2.66 | 16.10 |
| A | Medium+ | 2.70 | 16.60 |
| A | Heavy | 2.74 | 16.90 |
| A | Heavy+ | 2.80 | 17.40 |
| Contrabass E-4 Copper / Silverplate wound on gut | |||
| E | Light | 3.12 | 15.70 |
| E | Light+ | 3.18 | 16.15 |
| E | Medium | 3.22 | 16.40 |
| E | Medium+ | 3.28 | 16.90 |
| E | Heavy | 3.32 | 17.15 |
| E | Heavy+ | 3.36 | 17.50 |