Fat Beam vs. Hi Beam B strings

[ibz]

So, here's the deal. I've always liked how the Hi-Beams 4 strings felt and sounded (45-105) but when I throw them on my 5 string I feel that the B string isn't nearly as good as the B's of my LaBella Hard Rockin Steels or Sadowsky SS Rounds. It just doesn't feels as tight or as clear as the other 4 strings do. I'm using a 130 B on a standard 34" scale and it still doesn't do it for me vs. other B's I've encountered.

My guess this is because of the non-tapered B and some other factors.

So here's the question, do the Fat Beams B string have the clarity and taughness of the Sad SS or the HRS's that I'm looking for? Should I just save my self the $30+ and skip ordering these when I'm already happy with my other rounds?

Thanks.

[Tony G]

I've used the Fat Beams on my 5 and 6 string basses, and I don't really feel they improve at all over the Hi-Beams. The low b sounds hollow to me.

[ibz]

Thanks xgabriel, this is what I was afraid of...

What's interesting is I've heard before of people mixing Hi-Beams and the Sadowsky B, together with good results. I might try this when my HRS's start losing their character.

[Tony G]

However, one low b that I thought sounded pretty killer was from a set of Black Beauties. Those may be worth a try.

[ibz]

Even more interesting, mind if I pick your brain a little bit more and ask how the Black Beauty EADG strings' compare soundwise vs. other DR's? What gauges did you use 45-130? Balanced feel?

Thanks.

[Tony G]

Originally Posted by ibz

Even more interesting, mind if I pick your brain a little bit more and ask how the Black Beauty EADG strings' compare soundwise vs. other DR's? What gauges did you use 45-130? Balanced feel?

As far as I know the BB's only come in one gauge set, and I do believe they are 45-125. I actually really liked them. They have a great feel and the sound is very full with tons of punch. I'm not one for coated strings, but these made me think twice. They look pretty cool too! However, I've heard mixed experiences with their life span. Some say the die after a couple of weeks, others say they last months. Take it with a grain of salt.

[Tony G]

Here is a quick pic of my Skjold Custom 5 with the black beauties on it just so you can get an idea of what they look like. (this bass just happens to be for sale as well!)

[haloonpc]

Dude, it might just be you need a thicker gauge B string. Try .135 it might sound better.

[ibz]

Thanks for the pic, they almost look like tapewounds from afar. I like the look though.

[ibz]

Also, 135 seems a bit thick idk I'll think it over, what interests me ever more though is that DR makes a 130 black beauty B string. Look like I might have to try them out.