DR hi-beams E-string question

smeet · #1 03-07-2010, 10:34 AM

So I've been using SS LoRiders for a while (on my Sadowsky 5), and I'm trying out a set of HiBeams (40-60-80-100-120). I like them overall. I'm suprised by how sweet the high notes sound, and the B string is nice and defined. But... The E string is noticeably lower in volume than the other strings. It doesn't sound "false" or dull or anything. Is this a bad string, or just the way these strings sound?

Meatrus · #2 03-07-2010, 10:48 AM

Sounds like a bad string to me, its been a few years since I had a set, but I didnt notice that. If it is a pain take the set back to the shop or site you bought them from, or DR failing that.

Its unlikely but could there be something making contact with the string where the shouldnt be (like at the bridge or tuner)? I would think that would cause it to sound dull though.

KJung · #3 03-07-2010, 10:53 AM

My Hi Beams are even all the way up or down. Sounds like possibly a funky string.

smeet · #4 03-07-2010, 12:52 PM

I can't take the set back, it's been years since I bought them, just found the pack. I don't even remember where I got them.

Will DR send me a replacement string?

Meatrus · #5 03-07-2010, 12:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smeet

Will DR send me a replacement string?

Probably not, as its has been so long, this could also be the reason you are having the trouble (old strings in non airtight packs).

SteveC · #6 03-07-2010, 01:00 PM

Pony up for a new set. They are great strings.

Floyd Eye · #7 03-08-2010, 03:59 AM

Sure you can get a single string.

http://www.juststrings.com/drs-hbs-100.html

SteveC · #8 03-08-2010, 09:08 AM

You can get a single string, but if they are old, and one is bad, why not start fresh?

So Low Bass · #9 03-08-2010, 09:41 AM

Is it the “E” or the entire string? Is the string sitting down on the nut and saddle ok? We have to be careful when putting on bass strings; we’re not talking about puny, short guitar strings. Be VERY careful not to twist the strings laterally when putting them on. Make sure they can naturally twist at the bridge as you tighten them up until the last moment.

Try taking the “E” off, give it a good wiping, and reinstall it with the “no twist” thing in mind. Also, drop it to “D” and see if it changes things.

I just put High Beams on my bass and, after three weeks, are settling down.

BassLife77 · #10 03-08-2010, 11:10 AM

soak the E in 91% alcohol for a few hours

smeet · #11 03-08-2010, 11:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveC

Pony up for a new set. They are great strings.

When I pay $30 (or any amount) for something, I don't expect to pay again to replace a faulty product. Would you buy a second amp if the first one didn't work properly?

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveC

You can get a single string, but if they are old, and one is bad, why not start fresh?

The strings are old, but I just opened the package and put them on my bass, they have only been played for a couple of days. I will probably pick up a single E.

It's the entire string. The string actually sounds fine and true, it's just lower in volume than the other strings, very strange. And it is definitely strung properly with no twisting etc.

I'll try dropping it to D and see if it makes a difference.

smeet · #12 03-08-2010, 11:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BassLife77

soak the E in 91% alcohol for a few hours

Why do you think that would help? Not being combative, just wondering. The string is just as bright and present as the other strings and the harmonics are OK, it's just lower in volume.

Caca de Kick · #13 03-08-2010, 11:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smeet

When I pay $30 (or any amount) for something, I don't expect to pay again to replace a faulty product. Would you buy a second amp if the first one didn't work properly?

Not the same situation. Strings are very disposable items.

But, since you just opened the pack (even if you don't know when you bought it), you should just contact DR and tell them about the E, see what they say. And no DON'T soak the string!

joelb79 · #14 03-08-2010, 01:15 PM

I've had the same problem and it was a faulty string. The center core was bent or something causing the problem. Oddly, DR High beams are the only set that happened to me on. And I switched because of it happening more than once. I also had a G string unwind on me, again a unique DR problem.