D'Addario Flats on a Jazz

[burtonisalive]

I was thinking about trying some D'Addario Flats on my GL Jazz. I would like to know the pros and cons of flats on my bass. I typically use roundwound strings, such as Ernie Ball Hybrid Slinky or GHS Bass Boomers. The type of music I play ranges from punk to hard rock to touches of metal, i.e., Weezer, Audioslave/Rage Against the Machine, Metallica, Godsmack, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and of course my own music is influenced by this.

I would like to have some feedback from people that have experience with this. Thanks!

Just Josh

[dewbass4]

If memory serves, Steve Harris has always used flats. McCartney's Hofner always had flats. Flats are slightly fatter sounding (still with a good ring) and they're much easer on your hands. They're also easier to clean and last longer than rounds. I have a passive Jazz with flats (chromes), and active Jazz with round wounds (elixers). When the elixers die, both basses will have flats. I also have a 51 p-bass with chromes (wouldn't use anything else on it). I really prefer the sound and feel of flats. You didn't state, but flats work equally well finger style and with picks.

There is a downside of flat wounds. They cost more than rounds and not every store stocks them (or only a very limited selection.)

[Ikkir]

At the moment I've got D'Addario flats on my 1962 reissue Fender Jazz and they're amazing for capturing that 'old school' John Paul Jones type sound.
However, I'm not sure if they're right for you - generally hardrock, punk and metal bands use roundwounds for that more aggressive sound. I know there are plenty of exceptions such as Steve Harris, but generally speaking flatwound strings' smoother sound are more useful in a classic rock, jazz or blues style.
Definately don't get flatwounds if you're gonna want to play slap bass, as they are far from ideal for that style of playing (IMO of course).

[The Dave]

+1 Flats will give you a lot of thump, but your openness, clarity and high end definition is gone. If you want a smoother feel, I'd recommend some D'Addario Half Rounds (A round wound that's been ground smooth) or some compression wound strings. I'm using the half rounds right now. They feel great and they retain quite a bit of that round wound clarity. Hope this helps!

[bazzanderson]

Flats are going to definitely be more "muted" than rounds but they are no less suitable for metal, punk or heavy rock. If you have an EQ section on your amp you'll be able to pull a bright enough tone to cut through.

The best thing about chromes (other than the silky smooth tone) is the silky smooth feel. Best feeling strings out there IMO.

[markjazzbassist]

i've got d'addario chromes on one my jazzes. sounds great. you should try them.

[BaldBass]

I use only flats granted they are not for everyone but you should at least try a set

[LoveThatBass]

Originally Posted by The Dave

+1 Flats will give you a lot of thump, but your openness, clarity and high end definition is gone. If you want a smoother feel, I'd recommend some D'Addario Half Rounds (A round wound that's been ground smooth) or some compression wound strings. I'm using the half rounds right now. They feel great and they retain quite a bit of that round wound clarity. Hope this helps!

I tried half Rounds and they do not sound good to me. D'Addario Chromes or TI Jazz Flats sound much better.
Chromes have a little more tension than the TI's and feel better to many people but the TI's have a better tone.
IMO

[canopener]

Take the plunge. Chromes are probably the best all-around flat out there. They are good for just about anything.

[avid]

I have had Chromes on my Fender American Deluxe Jazz for three days. I think they are suhweet. They are silky smooth and have a really nice tone. I don't find them that much more tight than the roundwounds they replaced.