Dr neons breaking every time!

[Chaddycakes]

I have a ken smith bsr5j-mw with a brass nut. I've been trying to put green dr neon medium gauge strings on it, but four times now the low b unravels before full tension. Dr has sent me replacements, but they unravel too. My thought is brass nut, but at this point I don't remember if it happens at the nut. Any similar experiences? BTW, I would love to see heavy gauge Neons someday.

[rekesbass]

do you follow the installation instructions ?...round core strings require a bend before cutting to size,otherwise the string may un-ravel..the bend helps keep the string windings bound to the core..next time you install one, add an inch to your measured length (the part that goes into the tuner hole) and put a 90 degree bend at the last inch..insert that part into the hole..if possible,try to wrap the string around the tuner post by hand one or two times to take up most of the slack before you turn the tuning key..then use the tuning key to wind up the rest of the string (keeping some tension while winding) and try to keep the string out of the nut slot until you can no longer do so..also..don't let the string get twisted while doing this..I know it sounds like a pain in the neck but, it's really not that bad..good luck..

[Chaddycakes]

I always put a bend and wind the entire string onto the peg by hand or with a winder and don't let it rub on the nut.

[Chaddycakes]

*update*

I figured out that the Ken Smith bridge requires taper-core strings, which get thinner near the ball. This provides a significant amount of extra sustain, but it does limit what strings you can use. I guess I'm gonna need a need a flashy new bass to sport glow in the dark strings. Maybe something with a crazy body shape!

I've noticed that many of the boutique builders are offering their own bridges and string brands, and My suspicion is that this is the cause. Fodera and Sadowsky have followed suit and put tapers on their 'E' and 'B' strings. Does anybody know who originated this design?