help, i need somebody...

[FenneveKIN]

... to explain a few things to me about strings (apologies for that awkward Beatles title).

i've been playing bass for little under a year and never changed my strings - i mean, they've served me well and never seemed to detract from what i'm playing. however, i'm finally looking to purchase some new strings, but am completely uneducated in that field.

firstly:

·· i play fingerstyle only.
·· i play a four-stringed Ibanez bass - an SR200, i believe. it's tuned EADG.
·· i'm in a three-piece alternative rock band that varies from the heavier side to the softer side of things.
·· my basslines play a pivotal part in the direction and mood of our music.

i hope that's enough information to now ask: what kind of strings would you advise i use? and why?

in addition to that, if anyone would do be an additional bit of help, can someone explain gauges in the context of genre (why certain gauges are associated with certain musical styles? hell, what IS a gauge?)?

thanks,
lewis

[RevengeGoose]

Many people around here like DR's a lot
They are crisp and zingy, and from what i have heard, have a fair amount of growl. (anyone feel free to step in and contradict me)

I like Ernie Ball Slinky's because i just prefer how punchy they are I like their overall feel.

Although, I am kind of i nthe dark too on different string as I have only had Ernie Ball and DR High Beams.

I would highly recommend either though. I usually get the High Beams in heavy because i like the added volume and it's not too terribly stiff for me.

I'm sure everyone will chime in their opinions also, but I know many people like DR's

[Bassbasixx]

Well I always liked round wound strings for rock to me they have a fuller, more rounded rich tone than Flat wounds, Daddario EXL 160 nickel wound XL medium gauge should be fine for standard tuning (440) .050 g string .070 d string .085 a string .105. e string personally I think flats are cool for a frettless and they don't chew up your fingerboard, but a whole bunch of people like them for many styles. If you have not changed your strings in almost a year anything you put on it will sound a 100 times better> if your doing real heavy stuff and tuning down you may like a heavy gauge. If you want less brightness you may prefer the Flat wound, either way you need new strings hope this helps.

[FenneveKIN]

it HAS helped a lot. i found a lot of helpful tips across the forum after posting that ("whole think before you act" slapping me across the back of the head), but opinion is really appreciated.

thanks again!