Best flats for my '66J?

[Thumper]

My P is running Sunbeams and I'm very happy with the tone. My '66J on the other hand is less than impressive with rounds (various sets tried), the tone is subtle, not punchy and the bottom is nothing to get excited about. I want to use it for a set where the slim neck will come in handy so I'm thinking some flats will add what I'm looking for.

We play tuned down 1/2 step, and TI flats are low enough tension that I worry they will feel floppy. Right now I'm leaning towards the lightest set (FL?) of D'Addario Chromes.

[mario222]

The Labella 760 FL set should do the job. I use them on one of my basses and I also tune 1/2 step down nice tension and tone. Should go nicely with your J.

[tapp01]

Chromes FTW! Strong enough for a Precision. pH balanced for a Jazz.

[lmfreeman9]

I just installed a set of DR Hi-Beam Flats on a P-Bass. Very nice. They are stainless and have excellent highs.

[Thumper]

Okay, 1 vote each for Chromes, LaBellas, and DRs (BTW didn't know DR did flats), I'd like a consensus if possible.

I'll also mention that I'm looking for a light gauge because my other players are all strung with medium DR roundwounds and one (the Cassidy) with TI flats and I don't want to have to get used to a fat feeling string for use on 1/2 set (the other 1/2 of that set is the Cassidy with TIs, normal tuning), not to mention I don't want to put high tension strings (tuned down or not) on this 42 year old bass (just being cautious, I'm sure it can handle them).

[PRUNEFACE]

Originally Posted by Thumper

My P is running Sunbeams and I'm very happy with the tone. My '66J on the other hand is less than impressive with rounds (various sets tried), the tone is subtle, not punchy and the bottom is nothing to get excited about. I want to use it for a set where the slim neck will come in handy so I'm thinking some flats will add what I'm looking for.

We play tuned down 1/2 step, and TI flats are low enough tension that I worry they will feel floppy. Right now I'm leaning towards the lightest set (FL?) of D'Addario Chromes.

I would look into the Thomastik Infeld's, everyone seems to love their "Jazz Flats."

[Luckydog]

not sure if you'll get true consensus. lots of different opinions held here, many very strong. For my alder bodied 69 J's I like a flat with good punch and definition but low enough tension not to be hard on the necks. For them I stay away from heavy Labella, Fender, or Rotos. I have used Labella 760FS with great success and the Sadowsky's are also nice. I like Chromes somewhat less. I also like TI's but note you want to tune down so I wouldnt advise them. Fenders would be great IMO if they weren't so tight. I love their tone but worry about my necks. For me the Labella FS or Sadowsky, while somewhat different, are perfect for these old Fenders..