Strings for Fretless 6

[bigjames]

I am thinking of picking up some DR Sunbeams for my fretless 6 string. I am thinking the set with the .125, .105, .085, .065, .045, .030.

I currently used D'addario Nickelwound with a heavier B and lighter E and A (.100 and .080). They are VERY soft and start to lose it when you really start to dig.

I am thinking the Sunbeams would feel more balanced and give a little more substance on the E and A strings. Anyone using Sunbeams on a fretless that can comment?

[Tony G]

Sun Beams sound great on fretless, but these days I'm really digging DR Black Beauties on my fretless. They are the coated stainless steel strings from DR, so they have the punch and growl of stainless without the worry about the strings digging up your fingerboard.

[fretlessman71]

I used Sunbeams for many years and was very happy with them. I believe I went .028, .040, .060, .080, .100, .120/125 (went back and forth on the B). I was really getting into the midrangey sitarish tone for a while there, and was simply very careful not to hit the lower strings too hard.

Almost ANYTHING is going to give you more substance than D'Addario XLs IMHO. I bet you'll be very happy with the Sunbeams, and if you're sold on that gauge, you might think about going just a tad higher with the B (maybe .128).

[bigjames]

Thanks guys...I will try the DRs for sure...and maybe the Black Beauties...

Thanks!

[bigjames]

I ordered a set of DR Black Beauties... .030-.125. I cannot wait to string them up on my fretless 6. I have been playing nothing but the D'Addario XLs for YEARS. I am really excited to hear how my fretless sounds with some quality stainless steel strings instead of the nickels. Should get some nice growl.

[LowBSix]

130 for the 'B'

[bigjames]

Originally Posted by LowBSix

130 for the 'B'

I was thinking the same thing...I have a .130 on it now and I am used to it... I may end up back on the .130. I play a .135 on my Wick, but I am thinking it is a tad heavy.