Strings as good as DR Sunbeams but mellower?

Rick1114 · #1 01-25-2007, 08:55 AM

After trying numerous brands, I found DR Sunbeams are the best strings for my Rockbass. It's very sensitive, and these get me the balance & string tension that work best. It actually plays pretty sweet (like cross between a Music Man and a Fender Jazz, but not as nice, of course) when properly set up with these strings. If I had one gripe, it's that the bass is still a little bright, probably due to the light body etc (what do you want for 500?)...but since I can't afford a new bass just yet, I'd like to see if anyone can suggest strings that are similar in balance/tension to Medium gauge DR Sunbeams but a touch "flatter" sounding?

Maybe something halfwound? I don't want to go on another string hunt (rather save for a new bass), so any help would be appreciated!

Thanks,

Rick

**mr sprocket** · #2 01-25-2007, 09:52 AM

I am interested in this as well. I am really digging sunbeams right now. They sound great on my solid bass but are not as punchy on my hollowbody. But I do sure like the way the play.

Rick1114 · #3 01-25-2007, 04:57 PM

Has anyone tried the DR Lowbeam Nickel? Probably similar to DR Sunbeams (both are nickel) but I dunno if the Hex core will make them have substantially more tension (roundcore vs hex core). If they are similar in tension & balance, then I may be very interested in trying those out!

Anyone have an opinion on them compared to Sunbeams?

Rick

1kinal · #4 01-25-2007, 05:12 PM

The tension is a little tighter on the nickel Lo-riders than on the Sunbeams.

The sunbeams are looser tension and a little more fat in the lows.

The lo-riders are tighter, are slightly boosted in the high-mids and have more hi-fi highs.

To resume I'd say the sunbeams are more traditionnal while the lo-riders are more modern.

BrandonBass · #5 01-26-2007, 10:40 AM

i find the sunbeams too mellow

nad · #6 01-26-2007, 10:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rick1114

I'd like to see if anyone can suggest strings that are similar in balance/tension to Medium gauge DR Sunbeams but a touch "flatter" sounding?

How about a week old set of Sunbeams?

I'm using Sunbeams on all my basses currently (except my flatwound P), when Elixir stopped making Polywebs I panicked because that's all I used for years, but heading straight for DR was the right thing to do. I think they sound best when aged a bit, they still feel great and sound a bit mellower than when brand new but not dead.

**mr sprocket** · #7 01-26-2007, 12:13 PM

I agree nad they are not as bright after a little playing. I really like the feel of the sunbeams. I have been thinking of trying pressurewounds though.

Disc · #8 01-26-2007, 01:00 PM

I just got some lo-riders and I wouldnt say they are hi-fi at all. compared to the EB slinkys I was using these are much more mellow. I would say they are the most balanced strings I have use.

steamthief · #9 01-26-2007, 01:08 PM

Disc, steel or nickel?

Brad Johnson · #10 01-26-2007, 02:05 PM

Roll off a little treble?

Rick1114 · #11 01-27-2007, 03:01 PM

I'll stick with the Sunbeams, buy a new pair and wear'm in.

Great strings - I don't think I'll find better for my particular bass least!

1kinal · #12 01-27-2007, 03:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rick1114

I'll stick with the Sunbeams, buy a new pair and wear'm in.

Great strings - I don't think I'll find better for my particular bass least!

Good move. If you want I can always send you my old sets of Sunbeams in exchange of new sets...