Want to try flats

[Joe Milo]

TB'ers,

I have an ESP/LTD B404SM 4 stringer. Active electronics,with EMG pups.

I have read many of the threads about flats and was curious if anyone here has a bass similar to mine with flats on it? Doesn't have to be the same model or make of bass but active with the EMG's. How does your sound?

Was thinking La Bella Deep Talking, D'Addario Chromes or Rotosound Steve Harris flats............

Thanks much

[HUnt49]

I put emg actives with a bqc control into my Epi Les Paul 5, and I have it strung with Thomastick-infeld flats. I'm usually after a more traditional sound, solid without growl but detailed. The flats were actually a very good pairing with the EMG's - they balance and round out some of the 'sterile' tone EMG's are reputed to have. If you're after a metallic growly active sound, it's the wrong direction. If you want a punchy full solid platform (think modern raggae) it's a great fit.

I think that a lot of people who don't care for flats might like them much better on a active bass- it can bring back out the mids and highs, but keep the fundamental of flats.

And if you don't dig it- restring it!

[jasper383]

For basses with the two soapbar pickups, like yours, I have had good luck with the La Bella 760 sets. I suggest trying the 760FL set to start. After about two weeks of solid playing, you'll get an idea of how they will sound. My guess is you'll like them.

[engedi1]

My bass has two soapbars (duncans) and it sounds awesome with Ti flats. Clean, punchy, a little growl when I dig in, and great mids.

[king_biscuit]

As with of these kinds threads, people are going to generally recommend their favorite strings. The most popular flats seem to be La Bellas, TIs, Chromes/EBs, GHS Precision, Fenders, and Rotosound. Close your eyes and pick one

[Wesley R]

I absolutly HATED my D'Adderio's at first. I almost cried, freeking overtones and harmonics from hell, were o dear was the root note. Three days later, they were better, One wekk later OK, two weeks later and all is well, thump if you want, and more full range tone and very nice fel. I loved them after that. if memory serves, I did a review in '08 or '09.

I havent played since my Fathers celebration of life. Kinda dropped out of here and pretty much every place else I hung out at. My memory is real clousy from 8-1-2008 through 2-1-2010

Respectfully

[Alucard817]

i hav an ESP LTD B-104 with flats and i love them. you get a more percussive sound and it almost punches you in the chest. i think if you do string your ESP with flats give the strings a couple of weeks to age.

[Joe Milo]

Thanks to all who responded! Appreciate it lots fellas.