DR Sunbeams vs. Hi-Beams

PotsdamBass8 · #1 03-21-2013, 10:44 AM

I tried to find an answer to this by searching, but I didn't find a consensus.

How do these two strings compare in terms of tension and feel? I currently use Sunbeams and love the feel of them, and I would like to try the Hi-Beams for the sonic differences but I won't bother if the feel is going to be a big change.

awamori · #2 03-21-2013, 11:16 AM

The big differences between the two are like night and day.

1.The Hi-Beams are a tad rougher than the Sunbeams.Due the SS wrap wire used in the Hi-Beams.
2.The Hi-Beams are brighter with a slight mid scoop whilst the Sunbeams are warmer and fuller sounding.
3.The tension is the same due the round core wire used in both sets.

Anyways if you're looking to get a bright tone without sacrificing the warmth of the Sunbeams get the Fat Beams.

PotsdamBass8 · #3 03-21-2013, 11:58 AM

Do the Fat Beams have the same tension as the Sunbeams? I forgot to mention that I have used SS before and know about the "stickiness" difference, I'm more concerned with how much tension and give they have.

cybersnyder · #4 03-21-2013, 12:54 PM

I never put a tension meter on the strings, whatever that is called, but I didn't notice any difference in tension between Hi Beams, Sunbeams and Lo-Riders.

awamori · #5 03-21-2013, 01:15 PM

They feel the same as the Sunbeams.

Biggbass · #6 03-21-2013, 01:15 PM

I love the sound of Hi Beams but wish they were a smoother feeling string. They're kinda rough on the fretting fingers.

awamori · #7 03-21-2013, 01:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Biggbass

I love the sound of Hi Beams but wish they were a smoother feeling string. They're kinda rough on the fretting fingers.

Really?

They're the smoothest SS roundwound strings on the market.

mmbongo · #8 03-21-2013, 02:03 PM

Sunbeams, HiBeams, and FatBeams all feel very similar tensionwise since their construction is pretty much the same.

HiBeams and FatBeams are almost identical, and will be a bit rougher feeling and brighter sounding than Sunbeams, which are nickel.

Ian_Flash · #9 03-21-2013, 04:56 PM

Correct Mr. Bongo! Sun, Hi and Fat Beams are all wound on a ROUND core which contributes to the unique and consistent tension feel. The actual "pull" tensions don't vary much among them (for equal diameters) but the FAT beams are wound at a slower speed, which alters how the wrap "grabs" the core AND gives it a smoother feel for a SS wrap. Until manufacturers offer a "Custom Wrap Polish" option, S/S will always feel a bit rougher. The carbon in the steel makes it a bit brittle causing a roughness when it's wound onto the core. The Nickel plating in Nickel/Steel strings is more ductile, and maintains a smoother feel.