String advise

AndGabrielFell · #1 08-13-2008, 08:13 AM

I'm looking to restring my '89 G&L sb-1 & playing through a Hartke 2155 Combo. I'm using a set right now that seems way too tinny than what I like. I play with my fingers. Mostly worship and rock. I usually use a low gauge D'Addario, but I've been itching for something that gives more of a low, solid boom. I'm not that big on GHS Boomers. I've heard some good things about RotoSound. I'm also wondering if it may have to do with my set up as well as I only play through the combo, no racks or effects. Anyone have any thoughts?

reactormind · #2 08-19-2008, 10:45 AM

are you using nickel strings? they might be giving you that tone, or you could try cutting the mid tones on the amp eq. You will get a bigger deeper sound on a bigger setup. I just went from a 50w combo to a 300w head and 4x10 and the sound is huge!

Solarmist · #3 08-19-2008, 07:37 PM

I'm pretty sure G&L basses come with SIT Powerwounds.
http://www.sitstrings.com/

ljazz · #4 08-20-2008, 03:12 AM

I play a G&L SB1 that I bought new back in '87.

It's a great bass! And it's only gotten better with age! In fact, it's my primary player, even though I've got three much "better" and more expensive basses here.

I swear TI Jazz Flats were made for this bass. Very articulate, and sound fabulous live. Tip: I keep the tone all the way up, and roll the volume back to about 80%.... gives you that Pino Palladino sound (like his signature P bass). The MFD pup in the SB1 is very very hot, and tends to get a bit "honky" when cranked up all the way. Rolled off a bit, it gives it a nice vintage P vibe.

If you've been playing light gauge D'Addarios, then you'll have no problem with the low tension of the TI's.

Ljazz

BuffaloBass · #5 08-20-2008, 11:34 AM

light guage = tinny. Change guages, not strings.

AndGabrielFell · #6 08-21-2008, 12:47 PM

Thanks guys. It's actually the lowest gauge D'Addarios I was using prior to the strings I have on it now. I play with the tone turned all the way down to give the G&L a nice low end sound. But these strings still end up sounding tinny. I actually was able to have a conversation with the guy who the strings are named after while playing on his amp (also named after him. Am I giving enough hints here?) He even said they weren't the best sounding. He even had the bass with his name on it strung with the low D'As.