La Bella Hofner Beatle Bass Strings

[soulfool]

I'm about to order "La Bella Hofner Beatle Bass Strings" for my Hofner Ignition (Icon) from JustStrings.com and am not 100% sure which gauge to go with. They offer .050-.100 gauge and .039 - .096. I'm fairly new to playing bass and I've read the lighter gauge is easier to play but the heavier gauge will offer better tone. I definitely don't want the "dead E" string sound that seems to be the issue with the Lights but then again I don't want to stress my neck or exhaust my fingers trying to play the heavier gauge. Any advice on which gauge would be the best option for an Ignition/Icon?

It appears these are La Bella Deep Talkin' Bass strings made exclusively for Hofners so I assume they will fit fine on an Ignition.

Here is the link:

http://www.juststrings.com/labellael...tarhofner.html

[Mr. Mig]

I have 2 Contemporary 500/1 Hofner basses myself. I use Labella Beatle bass strings on both. I use the .100-.50 gauge on one and the nylon wrapped ones on the other. In regards to the .100-.50 I like the sound they give. They give the hofner a a sort of deep twang. I have not tried the lower gauge, but that is part of the fun of trying strings. I am not sure what your financial situation is but try one gauge and then try the other gauge down the line. No matter what anyone says about any kind of string you will always have to hear it for yourself.
I wouldn't worry about the tension on the neck. I called Labella when I was first looking into those strings and I was told that they are made for the Hofner violin basses. Put them on another bass and you may have problems, but they are ok for a Hofner. Actually you may want to call Hofner and tell them you have an Icon and you want to make sure their strings are ok for it. It will give you peace of mind.