String recommendations for a 5 string Jazz

[bassphreak]

I'll try to provide as much detail as possible. Ultimately I know it comes down to personal preference.

I have just picked up a Fender Standard Jazz V (MIM Passive). It's my first foray into the 5 string world in several years. I need to replace the strings and am very uncertain as to what would be the best fit. I'm a huge fan of DR Black Beauties, but I would have to special order them from my shop and trying to identify any other strings that will meet my needs.

I've tried to research as best I can, but it's difficult to isolate to 5 string/B searches. It seems that just asking the experts and for specific experience would be the best way to go at this point.

I'll try to point out as much detail as I can to help. Looking for a replacement 5 string set:

- for a Fender Standard Jazz V (passive 34" scale)
- play mostly hard rock, classic metal and alternative type music
- don't want to change strings too frequently (full nickels likely out)
- warm/less bright strings with more lows/mids
- looking for higher tension B string for the 34" scale

My local preferred shop has the following options for 5 string sets:

- Rotosound
- Ernie Ball (not a big fan of EBs)
- GHS
- D'Addarios (mixed)

Again, I realize that it all boils down to trying them out. I'll likely pick up two sets, but would be very appreciative if anyone has experience to offer with any of the 5 strings options on a MIM Jazz 5.

DA and Roto have 135 options for the B that may add the additional tension, but I may be better served with a 125 or 130 hex. I'm just not sure.

Thanks!

[squashedOpossum]

In the "Just My Opinion" category -- I love RotoSounds 66's with my Jazz. Mine's not a 5-string, but Rotos on a Jazz are just a wonderfully unique tone.

Again, just my opinion.

[Grizzly700]

I was going to recommend black beauties. I guess if you pick from the 4 brands at your local shop I would go with Rotosound.

[Cutty]

Elixers!!

[Double Agent]

Originally Posted by bassphreak

I'll try to point out as much detail as I can to help. Looking for a replacement 5 string set:

- for a Fender Standard Jazz V (passive 34" scale)
- play mostly hard rock, classic metal and alternative type music
- don't want to change strings too frequently (full nickels likely out)
- warm/less bright strings with more lows/mids
- looking for higher tension B string for the 34" scale

Based on all of these criteria, I would highly recommend that you try DR Lo-Riders. I don't know if your shop will have them, but they are worth the effort and expense IMO.

[Bassman316]

Originally Posted by Double Agent

Based on all of these criteria, I would highly recommend that you try DR Lo-Riders. I don't know if your shop will have them, but they are worth the effort and expense IMO.

+1 to the Lo Riders. Finally broke down and picked up a set a few weeks ago and strung 'em up on the MIM Jazz. The tone farkin' rocks. Yes, my Jazz is only a four banger, but I still recommend the the Lo Riders. Check out JustStrings.com if your local shops don't carry DR strings.

[bassphreak]

Thanks for all the responses. I may just special order the lo-riders or black beauties. I'll pick up something they have in stock to try since the special order will take a while to get to the store.

[Jim Nazium]

I like GHS Boomers on my jazz 5er. Nice rich low end, bright top without being harsh.

[bassphreak]

Originally Posted by Jim Nazium

I like GHS Boomers on my jazz 5er. Nice rich low end, bright top without being harsh.

How is the B string on the GHS? T

[Bassman_1980]

Originally Posted by bassphreak

How is the B string on the GHS? T

if i might interrupt on the GHS low-B's:

when looking for tight tension on the low-B....

then GHS should be the very last one on the list

the 4-string sets are great though

but there are also other brands that don't have great low-B strings, tension wise, the brands that do have decent low-B's are these, and also take a .130 in all cases:

Elixir (non-tapered)
Ernie Ball
D'addario
DR (except the Long necks)
La bella Slappers & Hard rockin' steel (which only have .128)

i'm also a big fan of Rotosound, but again, the low-B's are too
floppy, even tried their .135 and .140 !!!

and even Fender strings are quiete nice, pitty that they don't last so long....

[bassphreak]

Thanks. Good to know about the GHS 5 strings options. I've only used the 4 string versions on a Schecter Jazz a few years back. Nice strings, but I don't have experience with their 5s.

[ransombass]

Originally Posted by Double Agent

Based on all of these criteria, I would highly recommend that you try DR Lo-Riders. I don't know if your shop will have them, but they are worth the effort and expense IMO.

+1

[jumbosilverette]

Originally Posted by Jim Nazium

I like GHS Boomers on my jazz 5er. Nice rich low end, bright top without being harsh.

+1. Sounds good on my MIM 5'er, but the B is a little slack.

[bassist4dalord]

I really enjoy the EB Slinkies on my Squier Affinity Jazz V. IMO and IME.