Collective Wisdom

[Treyzer]

Aloha,

I'm starting this thread with some trepidation based on the some of the recent rather aggresive responses I've read. However, I know that there are many out there with much wisdom and a generous spirit so.... I will proceed.

Although I'm rather new to this forum, I was a professional touring and recording bassist for over 30 years. Now I play primarily for the fun of it, although I still get paid.

I've already read many of the posts regarding string preference, however, I still have some questions and am looking for some direction from the collective wisdowm out there.

To start, IMHO, there is no Holy Grail out there. It is the player not the string, the bass or the amp that draws the sound out of any instrument. That being said, there are wonderful basses, great amps and many string options that can enchance what you are trying to do. Furthermore, although I have great reverence and respect for all the masters that have gone before, I'm not searching for an "old school" gut string sound. No offense to those that are following that path. Again IMHO based on my own concert and recording experience, a bass tone that may sound very warm & wonderful solo, oftentimes gets buried in an ensemble mix.

Here's my quest: I'm looking for a string that is punchy, has sustain and low tension as well as an articulate, warm clear singing tone in the thumb positions. I've used Spiros (W) most of the time; tried Corellis (OK for about 2 out of the 6 months I had them on the bass); and currently I'm using Helicore (L). None of these strings are bad. In fact I quite like the Spiros. I'm just wondering if there is anything out there that might be better?

Mahalo (thanks) in advance to any and all who might have helpful suggestions and/or insight on this topic.

[Francois Blais]

You may want to try the Pirastro Jazzers.
They're similar to Spiros, but have a tad less tension, and the tone is fuller and better on the top strings.

The Presto Balance Hybrid set is another option, but you have to buy it direct from Jonas Lohse I think. (didn't find any distributor in north america)
http://www.presto-strings.com

Hope this helps!
François

[Treyzer]

Thanks Francois,

I appreciate the help and insight. Entre-nous, merci for the sites and your myspace page...

aloha (je parle en peu francais mais je regret my spelling)

[Jason Hollar]

I'm using a mix of Spiros & Obligatos and searching for the same qualities in a set of strings.

The Jazzers look cool -- but I remember them as kind of expensive. I may look in to those again.

Also been thinking about trying the Helicore Orchestra Mediums again -- but for me, strictly as a warm sounding pizz string with less tension.

[Francois Blais]

Originally Posted by Jason Hollar

The Jazzers look cool -- but I remember them as kind of expensive. I may look in to those again.

Well, the set is only $5.50 more than a Spiro set, from Bob G.

Also been thinking about trying the Helicore Orchestra Mediums again -- but for me, strictly as a warm sounding pizz string with less tension.

I find them rather stiff though.

Regards,
François

[Treyzer]

Just looked on the Bob G site and they don't seem too expensive there. I think I'm gonna give them a shot. Good to know others are also looking for this kind of sound

All the best

Trey