Choosing the scale length for bass strings

Bass scale length is the vibrating string length from nut to bridge. It is therefore important to buy strings that match the scale of your bass (short, medium, long, or extra-long scale)

The most common scale for an electric bass is 34" (86 cm). That is what we call “Long Scale”. Some basses, especially 5-string models, have a 35" (89 cm) scale. “Extra-Long Scale” means a length greater than 34". Other basses are “Medium Scale” — 30"–33" (76–84 cm) — and others are “Short Scale” — 30" (76 cm) or less.

So to keep it simple: measure your scale!

• under 77 cm: Short Scale
• between 77 cm and 84 cm: Medium Scale
• between 84 cm and 87 cm: Long Scale (this is the standard length)
• over 87 cm: Extra-Long Scale