AL_Gue_Bass wrote:I strongly recommend medium guage and don't go lighter than medium light.
Typically, 105, 85, 65, 45 are good for 4string bass because they are heavy enough to provide natural bottom without relying on the amp.
When you play your E string on the high frets the notes still come through clearly.
For fretless bass, I use Rotosound flatwounds, medium (you don't want to use rounds because they will eat up your fretboard useless.)
On a bass with frets I use roundwound, Fender mediums or Blue Steel for a brighter sound.
If the nut is cut for a lighter guage strings, have the nut fitted for the medium guage strings.
When you go to the store examine the string guage, 2nd, Heavy guage strings provide a heavier G string or D string. The A strings or E strings are almost the same.
To a point you're correct. The most popular guages are 45-105's or 45-100's. That doesn't mean they are the do all die all of bass strings.
On basses with real narrow necks like Ibanez and some of the Fender J basses 45-100's are big enough. I string my Ibby 5 with DR FatBeams
40-60-80-100-120's and they work very well. I like to turn my amp up a little louder and play with a softer touch. It keeps your fingers from getting fatigued. Thinner strings also have more definition which makes them better for Jazz. Thicker strings have more power and a lower timbre allowing for more punch. It's really up to the individual and what they feel comfortable with. Advice, don't use Roto Flats on a Jazz bass. They are way to stiff and you will need to give your rod a full turn to compensate for the tension. They put a lot of stress on your neck. If you ever wondered why old Fenders had chunkier necks, especially P-Basses it was because back in the 60's and early 70's flatwounds were the dominant string. When Rotosound rounds hit the states by the mid 70's everyone switched, and then needed fret jobs two years later.
I try to find a perfect medium. DR Fatbeams and Hi-Beams won't eat your frets nor will D'Addario ProSteels. D'Addario XL's nickels are very easy on frets. Stay away from Rotos and Blue Steels, they are cheese graters!