Can you detune flats?

[barrybwoy44]

Hi,

I have a schecter model t with p/j and currently use rotosound roundwounds.

I have been reading the threads and note that a lot of people prefer flats when on a p, so i think i would like to give them a try.

I have a couple of queries though:

1 - Can you detune flats? We tune half a step down and some songs we go down to C# on the E.

2 - What inexpensive flats would you recommend i try?

Cheers guys, looking forward to your thoughts.

Barry

[bthiemann80]

Sure can, I was jamming w/ some guys for a while that used that same tuning and I used a pbass w/ flats. It was heavier kinda progressive stuff too and it sounded terrific. I used Fender flats mostly which are relatively cheap but sound great. I've got Rotosound flats on there now that sound really good too but the feel and gauges of the strings arent my thing. Got a set of Dean Markley flats on the way tho, those are about the same price as the fenders.

I'd go w/ the fender flats. They're a bit higher tension than your typical flats, but if you're going to be playing a half step down w/ the occasional drop C sharp, they'll loose some of that super high tension. Plus if you dont like them, you're only out like $20.

[Pilgrim]

Flats are just strings. Tune 'em up or down as you like.

I don't know of better inexpensive flats than Fender or Labella Deep Talkin' flats. The Labellas are a bit more expensive but lower tension and they have a classic sound.