Hmm, thinking about trying a set of tape wounds on my P bass, any info?

[LiquidMidnight]

I did a search and didn't come up with anything.

I've been thinking about trying a set of Fender tapes on my Precision. Problem is though, they are about twice the price of a normal set of flats or rounds. What makes these strings so special. What kind of sound can I expect to get from them. How long do they last compared to a metal strings. I once heard that they are harder to keep in tune, is that true?

Thank you for all your advice. Please add anything else I should know about them if you can think about it?

[Flatwound]

I've tried LaBella Tapes and Rotos. I hated the Rotos, unfortunately, but I thought the LaBellas were pretty cool. Haven't tried the Fenders. The LaBellas and Fenders IIRC are roundwounds with the final wrap being nylon tape. IME, brighter than flats, not so bright as nickel rounds, with a different character than either. Kind of cool, really. Also, I think you can get the La Bellas really cheap from Carvin.

[boogiebass]

The Fenders are really "zoomy." I dig 'em, especially on my '78 fretless P bass. They feel really good, too. Tension feels a little floppy and you may have to tweak your trussrod depending on what your neck is used to, however.

[LiquidMidnight]

Thanks guys.

Actually Boogiebass, I had some neck problems recently, that required some heat clamping, and I was told not to get strings with to much tension, so this sounds like a good idea.

Again, thanks everyone.

[Prefab]

Between the Fenders and the LaBella's, which has more tension?

[bassaussie]

Originally posted by Flatwound
I've tried LaBella Tapes and Rotos. I hated the Rotos, unfortunately, but I thought the LaBellas were pretty cool. Haven't tried the Fenders. The LaBellas and Fenders IIRC are roundwounds with the final wrap being nylon tape. IME, brighter than flats, not so bright as nickel rounds, with a different character than either. Kind of cool, really. Also, I think you can get the La Bellas really cheap from Carvin.

What colour is the silk wrapping on these strings? I'm trying to identify a set of strings on a used bass I've just bought, and I'm trying to match the colour to a brand. The colour on these strings is a light blue/turquoise.

[Prefab]

Well, I've been looking into this and I have found a little more info. The LaBella's have a purple thread and they are kind of a dull black, and lumpy. The Fenders are shiny black with black ends.

I also recently bought a bass with black tapes with yellow end. I love the sound of these things. Punchy, warm and clear. I very defined sound, with little sustain. I think they might be Roto's since they are very flat.

[bassaussie]

Originally posted by Prefab
Well, I've been looking into this and I have found a little more info. The LaBella's have a purple thread and they are kind of a dull black, and lumpy. The Fenders are shiny black with black ends.

I also recently bought a bass with black tapes with yellow end. I love the sound of these things. Punchy, warm and clear. I very defined sound, with little sustain. I think they might be Roto's since they are very flat.

Going strictly by the yellow ends, the are Roto TruBass. I go that info stright from Rotosound.

And the LaBella's are purple, eh?! Well, that's another brand off my list. I'm starting to run out of options here! I hope the one's on my bass don't break anytime soon!! LMAO!!

[Prefab]

Mybe yours are the Carvin version of the LaBella Tpaewounds.

[bassaussie]

Originally posted by Prefab
Mybe yours are the Carvin version of the LaBella Tpaewounds.

Yeah, they could be. I'll look into it.

Thanks, bassaussie.

[RIZ]

I think the Carvin/LaBella Tape wounds are abot $17.00 usd. chk out their website.