How do you keep track of your strings?

[Bassamatic]

For those of us with several instruments that like to try different strings - do you have a method to help keep track of what string is on what bass? I always think that I can remember, but other than the D'Addarios with the colored balls they all look alike.

maybe write it on a piece of masking tape and stick it to the neck plate?

C'mon geniuses!

[grifff]

Put a note in your Talkbass profile with the bass and what it's strung with? I don't personally use this but it may help someone.

[hdracer]

I save the package they came in & write the date and bass they are on

[bassplayer8953]

I keep the most recently replaced set of strings in the case, for an emergency, on each of my basses. I write the date I changed the strings in marker on the paper sleeve, stuck back in the plastic wrap, with the old strings.

[Bassamatic]

Thanks, guys for your input.

[Mr. Mig]

I have a spread sheet on my computer with all my basses listed and what strings, gauges, and when they were put on. This way I can look up what strings I had on 2 sets ago, If that was a sound I liked better but can't remember specifics.

[DRafalske]

Originally Posted by bassplayer8953

I keep the most recently replaced set of strings in the case, for an emergency, on each of my basses. I write the date I changed the strings in marker on the paper sleeve, stuck back in the plastic wrap, with the old strings.

This.
I don't go as far as writing the date on them, but this method works great for me.

D

[krafty]

Originally Posted by Mr. Mig

I have a spread sheet on my computer with all my basses listed and what strings, gauges, and when they were put on. This way I can look up what strings I had on 2 sets ago, If that was a sound I liked better but can't remember specifics.

(cough)nerd(cough)

Just kidding. This is actually a great idea, especially if you're experimenting. I'd almost take it to the next level and use google documents or something so that it's online and you can access it from any online computer, not just your own. That way you could, for example, make notes on a borrowed bass at a friend's house about how awesome it sounded with XXX strings playing whatever. Yeah, it's a lot of work but if you're going to commit to something like this, why not?

[JTE]

I'm a geek and an accountant. I had an Excel spreadsheet with data- date, which bass, action settings, cost, exact manufacturer's set name/number, and space for comments after 1 week, 1 month, 10 gigs, and six months. Fortunately I've recovered...

Just use the packaging to write down what bass you restrung and the date. Easy and reliable. Or get a set of Lakland Joe Osborn flats, put 'em on the Precision and never worry about strings (at least for THAT one) again

John