Strings for hip hop basslines with BEAD tuning

mannyace · #1 08-17-2011, 02:58 PM

First of all, since this is my first post (I've been lurking longer and registered recently in order to see the classifieds), I want to say thanks to everyone for making this a great place to learn and get info. Hopefully this isn't just another generic "help me pick some strings" type of thread. I do need help but I also have some specific needs. And I'm a beginner so I'm still learning along the way...

First some background: I'm a rap/hip hop producer and an engineer. Right now everything I do is based around a MIDI setup and using virtual instruments (synths and samples) for bass. Recently, I decded to go ahead and learn to play bass guitar so I can (eventually) add a more realistic sound to my productions. The bass that I'm talking about (and already doing via MIDI) is just simple bassline grooves. It's just one-note-at-a-time melodies with the occasional slide here or there. I'm not interested in slapping or playing chords or hitting any high/trebley notes.

If you'd like to hear what I'm already doing, the link in my signature will take you to my website where you can hear some stuff. I'm basically going to be playing these types of basslines but instead of using the keyboard, I'm using a bass guitar. In the long run, I might want to learn and do more things, but for now, I'm keeping it simple...

So about a month ago, I started off by borrowing a Japanese made Fender Jazz bass from a friend for a while (neither he or I know what exact model it is though) and now I've got myself a used Fender Aerodyne Jazz bass. I decided to get it because of it's weight and because it's likely of equal quality (since it's also Japanese made) to what I started on and what I'm used to (which is actually all I know.) It also has a P pickup so I feel like I can get the best of both types, even though I've never played a real Precision. And in case you're not familiar, it's a 4 string and has 34" scale length.

Now, I don't know if I want to replace synth bass altogether or if I want to supplement and play along with it. I think that means that I need a versatile sound (and again, I'm glad I've got a P/J hybrid so I can dial in just what I need.)

Also, to further complicate things, I've decided that I want to string this bass up as B-E-A-D and lose the G. I don't really have any interest in higher notes so it would, essentially, be a wasted string. I figure I'd rather learn with a B to begin with and add a G later (by buying a 5 string) if I ever want it. That way, I'd only need to learn the new addition, the G. If I go the other way and decide to learn the B later on, then everything else I've learned (while it's still the same) is in a new position and I'd have to adjust what I had been training my fingers to do.

So, with all that said: What do you recommend? What brand and type of strings? Roundwounds, flatwounds, or something else? What are most hip hop players using?

I'm thinking if I keep roundwounds, then I get versatility and I can EQ away the highs as needed. The extra string noise might be nice to add some realism since the MIDI stuff is already super clean sounding. And as an engineer, I know that you can't add treble/highs to something that doesn't have it in the first place. On the other hand, I know flatwounds are supposed to be lower and warmer and I don't really care about higher pitches/octaves anyways. Do notes on flatwounds sound like distinct notes though? Or is it hard to tell what the individual notes are? I've never touched or played flats so I don't know for sure if I should or should not go that route. Also I have no
idea about what gauges to get.

I'd like whatever I end up with to be easy to play and easy to manipulate after being recorded (mostly DI since I can't be too loud at home.) I know a lot of that depends on the action and how the tech sets it up but I definitely don't want strings that themselves are difficult for a beginner (if such a type of string exists.) And also whatever you guys recommend, they've got to be sold as B-E-A-D or in 5 string packs.

Thanks a bunch,
Manny

FunkMetalBass · #2 08-17-2011, 03:19 PM

Roundwounds are nice because they are quite versatile, allowing you to roll off the highs if necessary, or bring them out for more aggressive lines or slapping. I'm sure a lot of guys are using flats too, so you might get a set of each and try them out.

Are you opposed to online shopping? If not, check out Circle K Strings for roundwounds. They last forever, and the Balanced Tension provides a nice, even tone (great for the studio). The Balanced 130 is probably a good set to start with. CK's are seriously my favorite strings - I use them almost exclusively.

If you're looking for flats, you will have to go for a 5-string set, since I don't know of a manufacturer that makes 4-string BEAD sets. Thomastik-Infeld and LaBella both get a lot of love around here. I've never had any experience with either, so I can't make any recommendations, but I think it would be hard to go wrong with either.

mannyace · #3 08-19-2011, 06:49 AM

Thanks for the recommendation. I read that whole Circle K thread. Can you describe a little more how they sound? Like can you compare their tone to some other types of strings so I can sort of put them in context in my head. I do like the idea of balanced tension though.

Anyone else have any thoughts?

FunkMetalBass · #4 08-19-2011, 09:32 AM

I think Fodera or Elixir would be a reasonable comparison of string types. They don't choke the treble, mids, or fundamental at all. They're very balanced tonally. They're also very flexible, so even with increasing tension, they are still smooth to the touch and easy to play.