String gauge discussion

[Fritzjazz]

"What if" you use a heavier gauge string set (I'm thinking .014-.059) and reduce tension by tuning down to DGCFAD would they sound louder, better tone, fuller than lets says 12's or 13's in standard pitch?

I guess what I'm saying is, there has been a lot of discussion about heavier strings improving tone and volume but is it increased tension or the mass of the strings that cause this?

I've tried 14's in standard tuning before but found them to be a little too much for my hands so I always revert to 12's or 13's.

Thanks,
Fritzjazz

[TheToneDoc]

Strings rely on the tension to work with all aspects of the instrument. The downward pressure on the top and the needed string break angles at the nut and bridge are very important for this. When you relieve the string tension, the oscillating motion of the strings increases making the sound duller and more susceptible to buzzing. Think of a rubber-band and stretching it or not stretching it. As you stretch, or increase the tension, a higher pitched, but much clearer and more tone defining "boing" occurs. The same is true with guitar strings.
I would suggest keeping with your 13's but experimenting with ever darned string you can find. Personally, when I got to the Thomastik-Infeld Jazz Swing full medium Flats (tinplated e & B), I was done looking.

Cheers,
Doc