Help me find some strings...

beelzelboss · #1 12-25-2010, 10:47 PM

So I'm looking for a new set of strings. Rounds to be specific, and that's where it ends.

I need something that is lower tension. I have a DR lo-Riders on, and they are way to high of tension. Another comparison would be something around where the Ernie Ball Flats are, maybe a little less.

Secondly I would like something that isn't so bright and clanky. I played my instructors bass (He has on what the old owner had on), a fender jazz bass, and the strings were a lot quieter. Made it sound a lot nicer.

Lastly, then need to sound decent for popping and slapping. I don't really know how that is suppose to sound, so I'm leaving that one up to you guys.

Don't really care if its hex core or round core, or whatever it is. Just something smoother (No ROTOSOUNDS! those things tear up my fingers), quieter, and lower tension than what I have right now. Which is DR lo-Riders.

Thanks for your help, and Merry Christmas!

knuckle_head · #2 12-25-2010, 11:30 PM

What are the gauges you are currently using? Would a lighter set work?

beelzelboss · #3 12-26-2010, 11:52 AM

A lighter set would work, but not of the strings I'm using now. They are too clanky. I need something quieter!

knuckle_head · #4 12-26-2010, 03:50 PM

Clanky usually reads 'strings smacking against the fret board' - is that what you mean? Looser strings would make that worse.

Or is it strictly a tone thing?

beelzelboss · #5 12-26-2010, 03:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by knuckle_head

Clanky usually reads 'strings smacking against the fret board' - is that what you mean? Looser strings would make that worse.

Or is it strictly a tone thing?

That sounds correct, but my teacher has looser strings, and while it still hits the fretboard just as much, it just isn't as loud. Could it be the actual bass?

okcrum · #6 12-28-2010, 05:57 PM

Clanky can mean a whole lot of midrange response in the strings, as well. Rotosounds are (in)famous for this.

mmbongo · #7 12-28-2010, 06:12 PM

Try DR Sunbeams or ExtraLifes. They are round core so they have lower tension.

The 'fret slapping' could be an issue with the setup of your bass.

bottomzone · #8 12-28-2010, 06:14 PM

I'm currently using Sadowsky Blue Label stainless steel roundwounds on my Smith. So far, they are awesome!!! They sound great and feel great, even better than Ken Smith Tapercore strings. I've had them on for 2 weeks and they haven't lost their "zing", which is a problem with Smith strings, which last me 2-3 weeks max. If the Sadowsky's hold up for a month or two, I will definitely order some more!!! There is a very detailed thread here on TB discussing Sadowsky Blue and Black Label strings which is very informative.

A Groove is a Terrible Thing to Waste!

beelzelboss · #9 12-28-2010, 06:50 PM

Thanks guys. I still don't know where I'm going with this one.

ixlramp · #10 12-29-2010, 03:54 PM

Well DR Lo-Riders are steel roundwounds so you'll find nickel roundwounds smoother, quieter and less clanky. For lower tension, find out what gauges you are using and find a set where the gauges are lower by .005 or .010.

My experience is that D'Addario XL nickel roundwound are well designed and flexible.

mdogs · #11 12-29-2010, 06:56 PM

Circle K, only available online. When you go to their website you are going to see a lot of info about going to larger gauge strings, use it for what it is worth. I have been using a balanced tension set of 95's on my Pedulla for a while now and they can't be beat! Low tension, even tension across all four strings and they are a nickle/steel alloy which really sounds somewhere in between (imagine this) nickel and steel. And, they last...I am a new string freak. The only other strings I get as much life out of are DR Hi-Beams.