Whta size strings do I need?

[BassHead7309]

Ok I'm dumb when it comes to these things, so no smart alect comments. I need help not criticism. I play metal music and I'm not sure what size of strings to get for the sound I want. I want something that has a heavy sludge sound. I play a 4 string bass. Does the size even matter? Or can I just tune any size to the sound I want? Also what brand sounds best for the kind of music I play? I'm using D' Addario right now.

[PBass101]

Brand doesn't matter much, but you'll probably want to stick with roundwounds. And size won't matter a whole lot, as long as they aren't too thin. Average or slightly thicker strings are what you'll probably be happiest with.

[Kevinmach]

I am not sure what you mean by heavy sludge sound, and strings are a very personal thing, so it's hard to say.
A thicker string will increase the fullness of the sound, but I personally go by feel more than sound in terms of the gauge I choose, since nothing will sound good if they strings prohibit me from playing well. You will need to experiment to find a balance that works for you.

I have heard guys who play metal that use D'Addario and GHS Boomers, and though I use Roto's myself, I think the D'Addario XL is a fantastic string for the price (one of the cheapest out there and not bad at all- nice and bright for most metal music). You might be a lot closer to having what you need than you realize.