Bass string gauge?

[Withstand_The_Fall_Of_Time]

I have a 4 string bass and I was wondering which gauge would be best for B tuning but also have the ability to tune back up to D tuning (which is basically my standard). So I don't have to buy a 5 string... I don't have that much money!!
I don't know if I should just get a 5 sting set and throw out the high string or what?
Thanks

 

[Iced In Flames]

I always used a 110 for my E string. I think 45 - 100 was the gague I used. that was over 5 years ago tho, but I DO know I used a 110

 

[Thornmoon]

There are some really nice 5 strings for relatively little money available.. Might want to look into them simply for the "convenience" factor.. Constantly having to retune gets to be a pain in the arse over time.

 

[Withstand_The_Fall_Of_Time]

There are some really nice 5 strings for relatively little money available.. Might want to look into them simply for the "convenience" factor.. Constantly having to retune gets to be a pain in the arse over time.

What do you recomend? I've heard good things about the Ibanez's but other than that I don't know. Haha I don't even know what model of Ibanez.

 

[Thornmoon]

What do you recomend? I've heard good things about the Ibanez's but other than that I don't know. Haha I don't even know what model of Ibanez.

Not sure of your financial situation but at the lowest end I'd recommend a company called OLP. They make a nice Music Man Stingray 5 copy ($249.99 USD @ Musician's Friend). I have a friend who bought one and put a Seymore Duncan pickup in it. Now I can't tell the difference between it and his real Stingray!!

Also, check out this website: Rondo Music.

They carry the Brice and SX line and although I've never played either personally, I've heard nothing but good things about them.