What gauge / type of strings do you use on your short-scale?

[ishouldbeking]

I've always had long scale fender-y basses up til now(mim jazz, stingray, SX P), but i'm feeling crazy and bit the bullet on something quite different. It's a '73 Guild JS-2, which is a short scale mahogany-bodied beast along the lines of a Gibson EB-3 (or the newer SG bass).

I figure it'll probably need new strings, and I usually use nickel rounds, since i like the versatility. But I'm starting to think about gauge, and wondering which way I should go. On my long-scales I prefer the higher tension of Daddario medium gauge strings (.050-.105).

I guess I'm curious what kind of strings you all use on your similarly equipped short-scales? Same as your long scale basses, or different? If so, why? Any notes, comments or advice you might have is more than welcome.

[bongomania]

I've always preferred LaBella Deep Talkin' Bass on my short scales. They have a nice solid tone and non-floppy feel. I usually use flats, but their rounds are good too.

Edit: I don't remember the specific gauges I bought, but they were on the medium-heavy side.

[Buskman]

I currently own two shorties.

On my '70 Gibson EB-0, I have TI flats (JF324), gauged .043-.056-.070-.106. They suit this bass nicely, IMHO. Nice mids, good thump (especially coupled with the 'mudbucker' - ouch!). Pricey, but worth it (these are staying on until they unravel! )

On my SX SJB-75, I have Fender 5250XL nickleplated steel rounds, gauges 40-60-75-95. These sound really nice - you obviously have the roundwound bite, but they're also very warm too. Nice 70's type slap tones, but rolling off the treble and backing off the bridge pickup a bit I can get a nice, round thump as well. Sweet Jaco-esque 'honk' when favoring the bridge pickup. Plus, they cost around $20 which is a good thing, too!

Hope this helps.

[mjolnir]

It may not be right, but I just use regular strings on mine, DR hi beams, though mine's not that short, 32".

[DavePlaysBass]

The short scale will have let tension than a long scale obviously. So I would stick with the same gauges you prefer or possible go heavier.

Dave

[bassplayinggirl]

Originally Posted by mjolnir

It may not be right, but I just use regular strings on mine, DR hi beams, though mine's not that short, 32".

Hey mjolnir, I just got a 32" naturally with brand new strings. You have no problem with regular long-scale strings?

[mjolnir]

Originally Posted by bassplayinggirl

Hey mjolnir, I just got a 32" naturally with brand new strings. You have no problem with regular long-scale strings?

Nope. Like I said, I slapped some DR Hi Beams on mine, and have used D'Addario and Ernie Ball strings in the past with no real issues.

[bassplayinggirl]

Cool.
My girl came with D'Addarios, I'll have to see what's available in my country for the next set. Now I"m going to practice!

Thanks.

[spade2you]

I use Rob Allen's LaBella short scale strings. Very deep, thumpy, and upright sounding.

[Pilgrim]

Labella Deep Talkin' Flats are my favorites. I also have a Univox hollow-body with (I think) GHS brite flats on it (their #3065), and they're good as well...and I think they're a bit lower tension.