I'm looking for a new set of strings. I have a 4-string Darryl Jones Lakland (J-bass) and I'm looking to get a Flea sound. I like the real of his bass of the Peppers new album, Stadium Arcadium and I know he used some old GHS Flats. Any thoughts on what I should get? I'm kinda confused on how different characteristics would affect the tone too, so give me all the input possible.

EX: What will nickel vs. stainless do? Big difference on flats vs. rounds? What about tension? What kind of strings would eat my frets? Does thru-body stringing affect anything? ect...

Thanks
~Ryan

Stainless is the brightest string material. Rounds are brighter than flats, and have more sustain. Tension varies by brand, and is usually a personal preference. Stainless steel will eat frets more.

IMO, if you want to sound like flea getting the same type of strings helps, but you would also need the same amp and bass. I beleive he used an early 60's J-bass on most of the album. The DJ is based of a 70's one but the sound should be fairly close. Flea uses GK, so that would help also. Also, alot of tone is in the fingers, so even if you have a setup exactly like his you may not sound the same.