changing to flatwounds - gauge question

[coldwar1977]

Hi there!!

I've finally decided to switch to flatwounds (after more than a decennium of playing roundwounds). I've decided on D'Addario Chromes.

Normally, the gauge I play is 50-105 (XL RW).

Now I've read numerous times that flatwounds, and especially Chromes, have a lot more tension and feel stiffer.

Should I order one gauge thinner, 45-100, to retain somewhat the same feeling/tension/stiffness on my P-bass??
Or won't the difference be that drastic??

Does anybody have experience with this matter??
Thanx in advance!

[exmaxima1]

Originally Posted by coldwar1977

Now I've read numerous times that flatwounds, and especially Chromes, have a lot more tension and feel stiffer.

I have the Chromes in 50-105 on a Hamer CruiseBass and they are indeed pretty stiff. They sound very balanced and smooth, which is what I wanted for that bass. In particular, the G-string does not scream out with a different voice, which it usually does using lighter gauge.

I also use the Ernie ball 2804 Group II (50-105) on my P bass, and they are a bit softer, but not much. I think they are easier to play than the Chromes, and not quite as brite. They are perfect for that thuddy/lumpy P bass tone.

If you want a softer string, use the Thomastik Infeld jazz strings. I have them on another CruiseBass (Jazz type bass). Soft as butter, last forever. But they are easy to over power, so if you are a hard plucker they will clatter like mad. I like them at home for practice, but find I get too excited when I play out and I smack them too much into the pickups

Good Luck.

[bass whaler]

The D'Addarios are a beyond superb, These are so cool , You will not want to put your Bass down. .100-.045 Chromes and use Tone Finger Ease to keep the strings and frets clean and your fingers happy. These are the best flatwound strings ever made, bar none. If you measure the guage of D'addarios with a micrometer you will find that these puppys are spot on every time. Have fun.

[aguacateojos]

I find Chromes too stiff for comfort but that's just me...

[hasbeen]

Yes...I would suggest going lighter as they are stiffer.

IMHO though, I wouldn't "change to flatwounds.....".

You might need a fork and other times a spoon is better.

[rockamimjazz]

I switched to light gauge when I went to Chromes. Tried the medium gague flats, but they were too stiff.

[gary m]

I use GHS flats gauged .45 to .105 with no problems. You might also look at Pyramid flats -- pricey, but very high quality strings.

[TexasTodd]

I'm transitioning to flats as well. I put a set of D'Addario half rounds on and love them. Planning to switch to flats at next change. Are flats considerably stiffer than the halfs?

[coldwar1977]

alright, thanx for the info everybody! will try a lighter gauge to start.