DR Hi Beams - Scale Question

gruuv · #1 12-03-2009, 08:07 PM

All of you DR lovers, riddle me this. Do you use Hi Beams on your 34 in scale jazz style 5 string? And if so, do you find that the B is too long and you end up wrapping the actual string around the post rather than the tapered end?

I've got a Valenti and the B's sound like rectum on it because of this. Does DR make a shorter scale B string? Has anyone found a solution?

Disclaimer:

I'll go ahead and out myself for the Search Nazis. I have not done an exhaustive search on this topic. I tried DR's website, and I searched here for 'DR' and 'Hi Beam.' Now you may commence with your obligatory "Do a search" posts.

pickles · #2 12-04-2009, 07:23 AM

I do not think that is why you're hating the B. IME DR's string formula is really dialed in for 4 string bass, but for 5 string, the Bs are very very picky about what bass they want to work on. They typically do not work well on J style instruments, the only basses I've had good results with are Warwicks, Modulus, Musicman etc ... really modern basses.

Using the .120 and just playing with a really light touch sounds better. The thicker DR strings tend to sound really ringy and awful past the 4th fret.

For the addicted hi-beam user like myself, this is a real problem, but I've just gone over to using sets with great Bs on my 5 strings, since the only reason I'm typically playing a 5'er is wanting to play the B. Labellas and Sadowskys are the best.

dmusic148 · #3 12-04-2009, 07:34 AM

If they'll fit over the string, you can use this approach- look at my G string. Old ball ends. If they won't fit, use anything that will- small nuts/washers work; whatever it takes to pull the string back toward the bridge.

gruuv · #4 12-04-2009, 11:51 AM

Thanks to both of you all for the insight.

Pickles, very interesting thoughts on the Hi Beam B. I've not thought about it very carefully. I may see if I can buy some individual stainless B's of the same gauge (maybe D'Addario, Sadowsky, etc...).

Anyone know if GC's stock single B's or will they need to be ordered?

dmusic, interesting idea, I'd not thought of that. The kicker is I'm looking at a difference of a half inch or more in length, I think, if I'm remembering correctly. I will double-check though.

SteveC · #5 12-04-2009, 12:34 PM

I have used Hi Beams on all my 5 strings - both 34 and 35 inch - with no problems. My current 5'er (34" Yamaha BB605) has Hi Beams on it with no problems.

Caca de Kick · #6 12-04-2009, 12:47 PM

The string post wrap makes no difference on the sound.

You may need to experiment with different B strings to find the one you like...maybe a taper wound string might be for you, or a different gauge all together. Personally, I've never had a 'speaking' issue with DR's highbeam B, and yes mine wrapped just like yours.
Bass NW has a good selection of single B strings.

gruuv · #7 12-04-2009, 10:54 PM

Good to know - thanks for all of the input.

pickles · #8 12-05-2009, 08:18 AM

I've done a lot of the mix-n-match trick as well. Its ok. The problem is you tend to have a difference in tone and output with that approach. I like a LaBella Super Step .128 with high beams 45-105 best. Fairly uniform. With a Hard Rockin Steel, the low string is so much more punchy and growly that its a little abrupt.

I would reccomend trying a full set of Pedulla Stainless (in particular), LaBella Hard Rockin Steels, or Sadowsky Blue Stainless and see where that gets you.

BTW, the taper wound DR Bs sound exactly like the nontapered version.