Double Bass Strings

The right double bass strings for you depend on your skill level, how you play, the sound you want, and the size of your instrument. Prelude strings are great for beginners thanks to their affordability, durability, and ease of playing. Meanwhile, Helicore strings are a versatile step-up option for players of all levels, offered in a variety of tonal warmth options including orchestral, hybrid, and pizzicato. Durable and widely popular among jazz and classical players, Zyex strings feature a synethtic core and are known for their rich, complex tone. Kaplan double bass strings have the rich tone, projection, bowing response, and highly nuanced control that professional players need.

The scale length of an orchestral instrument refers to the vibrating string length from the nut to the bridge. This measurement is translated to fractional numbers in order to classify instrument sizes. However, D’Addario double bass strings are sold according to instrument sizes such as 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and even 4/4 for select double bass strings. If you’re not sure which size string to buy for your double bass, check your instrument size and the available sizes for the specific D’Addario string set before purchasing a set.

As always, the best string choice for you depends on your preferences and musical style. But generally speaking, Kaplan Double Bass strings are D’Addario’s top option for most professionals. Beautifully balanced, Kaplan strings have a rich tonal color palette and exceptional bowing response. However, Zyex Light tension strings are beloved by professional jazz players, while many professionals in all kinds of styles prefer Helicore.

Warm, durable, and affordably priced, D’Addario Prelude Double Bass Strings are a great place to start if you’re a beginner or shopping for one.

D'Addario doesn't currently offer a bass set for fifths tuning. However, you can build one yourself by mixing and matching existing strings. We recommend the following: 

A: Use Helicore or Kaplan Solo A, HS611 3/4M 

D: Use Helicore or Kaplan Orchestral D, H612 3/4M 

G: Use Helicore or Kaplan Solo F#, HS614 3/4M tuned to G 

C: Use Helicore or Kaplan Orchestral Low B, H616 3/4M tuned to C.