Does anybody here ever need to go below B0 on their bass?

[el_Bajo_Verde]

I've been toying with the idea of tuning ADGCF (one whole step below standard) on my 5-string or F#BEADG (A fourth below standard) on my 6-string, but then I realized that I have NEVER needed to go below B when playing songs! Not even on any gospel songs.

So I'm just curious if there's anyone here who actually needs to go below B often. I know some gospel players tune to Bb but I've never encountered a song that needed it.

 

[Geri O]

I have a Hipshot D Tuner on the B strings of my basses. On the Mike Lull I have it set to go to Low A.

No, I don’t need to. But I do occasionally. It’s more of an effect.

I’m sure that will rub someone the wrong way, but it works for me.

 

[TyCobb]

You don't necessarily need to tune to A or F#, but if you don't and try to do something with scales/arpeggios farther down the neck, you may find it nicer to have it match again.

 

[Solarmist]

ADGCF is how Fieldy tunes ...

 

[Inara]

I tune low B down to A for a few songs in one of my bands, because they're in A minor and with our style (sort of retro-Goth-Doom metal) they really benefit from that low, hammering root note being available. I've never tuned lower than that.

 

[ixlramp]

There are more reasons for playing low than what a 'song' 'needs'. It will allow you to play any F#-Bb note in a song an octave lower, it may not 'need' it but it is possible and effective. Also you can play low notes for your own enjoyment or in your own music, practice or improvisation.
Think about how church organs extend down to C0 and the effect that can have.