Question Tuning in 5ths, problems?

[CFA]

So, I was planing on learning Bach's Cello Suite No.1 on bass, and decided to tune my bass in 5ths (CGDA) so I'd be playing in the same tuning as a cello, and I assumed it'd make it a bit easier. Only problem is I've completely fallen in love with it, to the point where I mapped out the notes on the neck to re-learn everything.

Anyways, I was wondering if anyone could fill me in on any major problems (Don't really worry about not having the same notes in the same places as guitar)? Will storing it tuned EADG, but using it tuned CGDA cause problems with the neck? Should I leave it CGDA even when storing it? Does anyone have an suggestions for strings (Leaving the detuned strings feeling as close to EB Super Slinkies as possible)?

Taking it to a luthier is mostly out of the question at the moment, as I don't know any in Newfoundland, and I lack the money. However if anyone has any idea how much getting the nut cut (I assume) and a proper set up would cost (From their experience) I'd be interested in knowing.

Thanks in advance,
Chris

 

[oli@bass]

Interesting approach! But you are aware that you then are one octave below the Cello tuning, aren't you?

Having no experience, I can only offer some educated guess on strings I'd try for that: EB Strings can be had in any gauge (single strings), so I'd probably try a 115 for the C, a 85 for the G, keep the D at 65 and try a 40 for the A.

As soon as you have evened out the feeling of the strings (none too sloppy, none too tight), the tension on the neck should also be evened out so you don't have to worry about storing it that way.

 

[basstolero]

You're right, Oli. A friend of mine tuned his bass, not an EBMM, in Fifth CGDA, chose the right string dimension - roughly what you proposed as far as I remember - and doesn't have any problems with the neck as the tension is about what the neck is used to.

Cheers,
Chris

 

[MadMatt]

I just tuned my no-name fretless to DAEB (One tone higher) and this is a pretty cool tuning. Playing scales requires a lot more hand (and brain) movement but you can cover 2 octaves on the same piece of neck real estate. I'll have to try this with a few songs.

Thanks for the idea!!!

 

[Sheppardslegion]

Hello fellow Newfoundlander! I assume that you have made the necessary adjustments to the neck to account for the difference in tension. As long as it plays the way that is most comfortable, I think that you can continue to keep it tune in C - even while stored.

Take care...

Shepp...