5 string flatwounds

Oric · #1 02-08-2009, 02:51 PM

Hi
I'm planning on stringing my Fender Jazz BEAD, and am prepared to do the mods to the nut and bridge for it. However, I'm having a hard time finding 5-string flatwounds. I'm not too experienced with flats, but I know I want something thumpy and old school sounding, but can get a nice hollow pick sound, and the ability to clang a little when they need to is good.
Thanks

Lokire · #2 02-08-2009, 03:21 PM

I'd suggest either TI Jazz Flats (if you like lower-tension strings), or maybe Sadowsky flatwounds, which have a tapered B-string.

JustDavid · #3 02-08-2009, 03:34 PM

I'm a huge TI Flats fan, but I think the low tension together with you being new to B will have you finding it extremely floppy. Though I love their sound, I can't class it as the most "old-school" of Flats. And they are expensive, though Flats get changed a lot less often than Rounds (if ever they do).

I'd send you more towards Chromes. More of an "old school" tone from them, & they can still offer a bit of 'sparkle'. Less $. Tension is quite close to similar gauge Rounds.

No experience with any other Flats.

Darkstrike · #4 02-08-2009, 03:36 PM

Chromes would be good for what you want, maybe Rotos too.

bassyboy · #5 02-08-2009, 03:51 PM

rotosound monel flatwound RS 77 LD 45 to 105 set and roundwound 130 for the low B for a bit of definition so for you 130 round, 105,85,65.flat
this works well on my 5 string p-bass

JansenW · #6 02-08-2009, 03:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lokire

I'd suggest either TI Jazz Flats (if you like lower-tension strings), or maybe Sadowsky flatwounds, which have a tapered B-string.

+1
Both of these are great choices.

fish slapper · #7 02-08-2009, 03:59 PM

You might also want to try Labella tapewounds. I have a set on my Clement 5er and they are great.

behemecoytl · #8 02-08-2009, 04:07 PM

Ernie Ball makes a 5 string set. I have some on my j-bass right now. these are my first flats, so not sure how they measure up against other flats, but they sound nice and fat.

Jumbotron · #9 02-08-2009, 04:08 PM

A cheap option is getting some LaBella flats through carvin. I like 'em plenty.

emblymouse · #10 02-08-2009, 05:23 PM

Subscribed. Those Monels are super high tension which might work well for the often floppy B. Bright too, at least at first.

bongomania · #11 02-08-2009, 05:29 PM

I don't recommend the low B on the Sadowsky flats. It's not "bad", but it's not very fat or solid sounding IMO. I like the Chromes and LaBella "Deep Talkin"s better on the low B.

mrufino1 · #12 02-08-2009, 09:44 PM

I had TI flats on a borrowed Ken Smith 6 string and I found the B to be quite good.