Summary
A 45-100 4-string bass set tuned to E Standard (E A D G) on a 34″ scale produces about 164.5 lbs (74.6 kg) of total tension. Individual strings range from 35.5 lbs (string 4, E1) to 47.7 lbs (string 2, D2).
Tension by string
| String | Note | Gauge (in) | Type | Tension (lb) | Tension (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | G2 | 0.045 | Nickel Wound | 40.8 | 18.5 |
| 2 | D2 | 0.065 | Nickel Wound | 47.7 | 21.6 |
| 3 | A1 | 0.080 | Nickel Wound | 40.5 | 18.4 |
| 4 | E1 | 0.100 | Nickel Wound | 35.5 | 16.1 |
Total: 164.5 lb (74.6 kg)
Reading the result
- No string deviates from the set median by more than 35%, so the calculator's balance check does not flag this set.
- These are calculated estimates. Real strings vary by manufacturer, so enter your exact gauges in the calculator for a precise figure.
Same set, other tunings
Total tension for a 45-100 set at 34″ scale in each tuning.
| Tuning | Total (lb) | Total (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| E Standard | 164.5 | 74.6 |
| Drop D | 157.2 | 71.3 |
| D Standard | 130.6 | 59.2 |
How this was calculated
Each figure uses T = UW × (2LF)² / 386.4, where UW is the string's unit weight in lb/in, L is scale length in inches and F is the pitch in Hz (A4 = 440 Hz). All strings are treated as nickel wound. Manufacturers' gauges differ slightly, so treat the numbers as close estimates.
Accuracy against published D'Addario charts is about 1% for plain and phosphor-bronze strings, 2% for a 10-46 nickel wound set and up to 8% for heavy bass strings. Full sources and validation are on the Methodology page.
Open the calculator with your own gauges →Last updated: 7 October 2026 · All tension charts
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