strings for vintage gibson EB-0

[leemurray]

Anyone know what type of strings came on the original gibson basses from the 60's? I am restoring a 1969 Gibson EB-0. Wanted to try to match the original strings if possible. I probably prefer a bright roundwound since the bass itself is so dark, but I thought I would try to find out what was used originally.

p.s. this is a shortscale bass with the single "mudbucker" at the neck.

thanks

Lee

[fretlessguy]

I have no idea what brand of strings or type they came with in those days. Since I like a little definition in the sound instead of just pure mud, I would go with a set of short scale GHS Pressurewounds. A little more definition than flats, but it wouldn't stray that far from the original sound. For a brighter sound D'Addario Pro Steels are nice, but I do not know what effect they may have on those old frets. I used them on my Epi Allan Woody that has the two mini humbuckers like on a hofner Cavern Bass, and it gave that bass a much brighter sound. I am currently using a set of SIT shortscale nickels on the bass, which sound good as well.
www.juststrings.com and www.bpstrings.com have the widest range of short scale strings of anybody. Check them out.

[Pilgrim]

In the early 60's, most bass strings were flats.

[brachal]

Originally Posted by Pilgrim

In the early 60's, most bass strings were flats.

+1 on that. I use RotoSound Jazz Bass flats on my '68 EB-3, and the results are very nice.