I would like to change the tuning of my concert ukulele from GCEA to GDAE. Which kind of string do I need for that (diameter) ? Is it dangerous for the bridge ? (Ref. my ukulele is a Lanikai LU-21 CE)
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1You may be able to tune a ukelele, but you can't tune a fish <rimshot>– Carl WitthoftCommented Sep 18, 2013 at 11:33
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3 Answers
It would not be dangerous for the bridge if the four strings you select to produce that tuning have about the same tension (measured in lbs or kg) as the strings used for standard tuning.
The D'Addario string company publishes an elaborate reference guide for all the strings they sell for guitars and a few other instruments. You can download the PDF of this guide here.
Here is their explanation of the calculations involved:
Understanding what determines string tension.
In order to determine the tension at which a string will vibrate, you need three pieces of information: the Unit Weight, the Scale Length, and the Frequency of the string. You can use the formulas below to calculate the exact tension for any string using the scale length of your particular instrument. All of the charts illustrate string tensions for each string at a variety of pitches, in case you use alternative tunings.
UW- Unit Weight.
In all the charts and formulas in the brochure, unit weight is expressed in pounds per linear inch (lb/in).
L- Scale Length. This is the vibrating length of the string. This is determined by measuring the distance from the nut to the bridge of the instrument in inches (in).
F- Frequency or pitch. This is the pitch at which you will be tuning the string expressed in cycles per second (Hertz).
To calculate the tension of a string in pounds use the formula below, inserting the three variables described above:
T(Tension)= (UW x (2 x L x F)^2)/386.4
To convert the result into Newtons, simply multiply by 4.45.
If you know what tension you want the string to have, you can calculate the string unit weight. You can then use the charts in this guide to locate a string with approximately the same desired unit weight.
UW(unit weight)= (T x 386.4)/(2 x L x F)^2
Read the actual PDF for more information.
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Thanks a lot for your answer. I will check the length of my ukulele and try to find a set with existing UWs.– ThR37Commented Sep 19, 2013 at 8:52
Aquila makes a GDAE set for soprano ukes, but I don't think they sell a set with that tuning for concert scale.
They do sell a CGDA concert length set, however.
I have a cheap Clifden soprano bought in lidl for 18 e and put standard nylon guitar strings cut down to length and it works fine.Just use 4 high strings and ditch the bass E and A.Just make sure the high E string has a double knot on the end to take the tension without pulling out of the slot if that is the way yours is inserted.
