Scale length: Baritone vs Bass VI

[jtougas]

Baritone scale lengths are usually in the 28.xx range... Bass VI's are usually in the 30" range...

Sooo... question for y'all... Could I use Bass VI strings on a Baritone scale length instrument, and tune E-to-e?

I'm *guessing* that the difference between the two is within the difference between Fender and Gibson length instruments...

What say ye?

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Scale length: Baritone vs Bass VI

The critical areas are either end of the string.

The ball ends should fit the tailpiece anchorage okay and ride smoothly over the bridge saddles. The potential trouble begins at the nut slots and the machinehead slots/holes. Both may need attention.

String gauges will differ. E-E would be expected to be heavier than for A-A or B-B. They may feel slack under the fingers.

 

[Mincer]

Re: Scale length: Baritone vs Bass VI

I would think that to get the feel right, you'd have to re-cut the nut and use larger strings. No reason why that shouldn't work, though.

 

[jtougas]

Re: Scale length: Baritone vs Bass VI

Yeah, tweaking the nut will definitely be a part of the experiment...

 

[One Bad Monkey]

Re: Scale length: Baritone vs Bass VI

Bass VI strings usually have slightly larger ball ends than baritone guitar strings, so there may be a slight fitment issue as well.

 

[jtougas]

Re: Scale length: Baritone vs Bass VI

May not be much of a concern, the bridge is a flattop...