Variation in string volume

Siggy · #1 10-17-2007, 06:26 AM

I picked up a used Lakland 55-02 a few weeks back and restrung her with a new set of DR long neck tapers. Right away I noticed that the A string wasn't as loud as the rest of the strings. I contacted DR and they sent out a new string but it didn't help. The A string is still about 20% lower in volume. I can compensate a little with adjusting the tone but it's no real fix.

I'm not sure if it's a electrical or a string issue. I can't imagine getting 2 dud strings in a row but I didn't notice a volume difference before I put on the new strings. Any ideas?

Siggy

basske · #2 10-17-2007, 09:50 AM

another (cheaper) mark??

knuckle_head · #3 10-17-2007, 11:39 AM

If the tension of the A is higher than the balance of your set it will move less and be quieter as a result. Of course other players would notice the same thing though.

What are the gauges of the set you have?

Siggy · #4 10-17-2007, 05:09 PM

What are the gauges of the set you have?[/quote]

45, 65, 85, 105, 125

knuckle_head · #5 10-17-2007, 05:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Siggy

45, 65, 85, 105, 125

This is ballpark, but;

.045 - 42.8 pounds
.065 - 51.3 pounds
.085 - 48.5 pounds
.105 - 40.3 pounds
.125 - 31.5 pounds

A couple of things; generally a pickup's top is flat where your strings have the curvature of the compound radius of the nut and the saddle height. That puts your A furthest from the pickup than any of them, and that is worsened if you compensate for the louder output of your B and E by dropping the bass side of your pickups. You may or may not be doing that.

I would tinker with the tension in your set if you feel like 'sperimenting. Your E and your G look alright in relation to each other. If you are comfortable with how those two strings in particular feel try adjusting thicker on your B and thinner on your A and D. Suggested gauges would be .135, .080 and .060.

This will make the output from string to string more consistent, and allow you to bring the pickup a bit closer to your strings in general - certainly closer on the bass side which may bring the A into closer proximity as well.

Then again, maybe you got two dud A strings....