Just how much do strings effect tone?

Lowner · #1 06-26-2006, 05:51 PM

I had this MIM p-bass I was going to trade in fro something else. But as a last resort, I decided to take the elixers that I have had on it since I got it. I had a set of dean markley blue nickels on hand and put them on. When I did it was like I was playing a totally different bass. The tone actually improved and i am not going to get rid of it now and i think I am going to put blue nickels on all my 4 string basses.

So how much can differnt brands of strings effect tone?

Luke73 · #2 06-26-2006, 05:56 PM

Different strings can have a HUGE effect on tone.

**bassybill** · #3 06-27-2006, 12:48 AM

Yes. I think you've already answered your own question.

nad · #4 06-27-2006, 01:02 AM

Strings effect your tone more than any other equipment as far as I'm concerned. Tubes v. solid state? Bah, who cares! Flats v. rounds makes a much bigger difference.

Spencer! · #5 06-27-2006, 01:20 AM

The huge difference in tone was probably not caused by the different brand of strings, but the fact that you replaced old, probably dead strings with bright new strings. I've tried many different brands of strings, and I believe that all new strings sound fairly similar. I'm usually more concerned about the feel of the strings. Change your strings more often and your basses will all sound better.

BJAJT · #6 06-27-2006, 07:33 AM

I had the same result with my Fender Jazz when I changed
from one brand to DR Lo-Riders. My tone is GREAT, with deep
lows, middy-growls and clear highs.

lug · #7 06-27-2006, 09:37 AM

These two recordings were made on different basses but with both having a fresh set of D'Addario Pro Steels. You tell me if you think they sound alike.
http://users3.ev1.net/~woodd/huntforslow2.mp3

http://users3.ev1.net/~woodd/huntforslow.mp3

canopener · #8 06-29-2006, 06:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bassybill

Yes. I think you've already answered your own question.

That's the ticket.