Extra Tangy D String?

[jasper383]

I just put a new set of flats on my MIM 50s P Bass. Gauges 40-60-80-100. I won't mention brand unless someone thinks that that is important.

The D string is really really bright. Much tangier than the other strings. The E, A and even the G string are warm and focussed, but not the D. It sticks out audibly.

I have tried adjusting where the string sits on the saddle, string and pickup height, and the D string is still bright. It almost sounds like I am hitting it with a pick. I don't play with a pick.

Will it settle in to match the others? Any advice?

[thumpbass1]

Sometimes you can get a set of strings where one of the strings sounds out of
balance with the rest of the set. Usually it's the other way around where one string
will sound flat and lifeless in comaparison to the others.

I don't know of any manufacturer of strings that offers a return warranty. You might
try contacting the place where you bought the set. Other than that the brightness
you describe may settle down a bit with some playing time. One trick passed on by
Stephen Stills the legendary member of Crosby Stills Nash and Young from his session
days where he played a lot of bass was to wipe down a new set of bass strings with
BB-QUE sauce. I'm not kidding! He said it cut down on any raspy overtones as he
prefered a deeper warmer tone. I wouldn't do it nor care to try it out but I can see
his logic behind it.

Sorry you got a set with one unbalanced string.