Flat-chromesteel vs. Corellis

Michael Glynn · #1 02-21-2007, 11:12 PM

Hello all, I am currently using a kind of odd mix of strings: G and D solo Dominants, tuned down; A Flat-chromesteel; and E Jazzer. In general this set works great for my needs (combo of jazz and classical), but I am looking for a brighter sound on the top strings for some upcoming work. I have used the Flat-chromesteels before and really like the clear and singing arco tone, but I was wondering if people had any comparisons between this string and the various gauges of Corelli 370s. I am interested in both pizz and arco performance.

Also, if anyone has recommendations of other similar strings to the FCS I'm all ears. However, there are a few strings in this range that I have used in the past that I'm not that interested in: Superflexible (just didn't do it for me), Helicore hybrids (I've had breakage problems with these, maybe they are fixed now, but I'm not interested), Spirocore (a little too bright, maybe).

Thanks for your help!

Bobby King · #2 02-22-2007, 12:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael Glynn

Hello all, I am currently using a kind of odd mix of strings: G and D solo Dominants, tuned down; A Flat-chromesteel; and E Jazzer. In general this set works great for my needs (combo of jazz and classical), but I am looking for a brighter sound on the top strings for some upcoming work. I have used the Flat-chromesteels before and really like the clear and singing arco tone, but I was wondering if people had any comparisons between this string and the various gauges of Corelli 370s. I am interested in both pizz and arco performance.

The Corelli 370M set is thinner in gauge and less tension than FCS, the pizz is not as bright and loud as FCS, the arco tone and bowability is definitely superior to FCS, IMO. The 370 Forte is a bit louder, more sustaining, more tension and thicker than the M. Maybe closer to FCS.

The Corelli 370s are really an excellent arco string, good pizz too but not as big and loud as some.

I actually found FCS to be similar to Superflexible, but lighter gauge and tension. I don't love either of those for arco.

Istar · #3 02-22-2007, 01:49 PM

Between the 2... Corelli all the way.
the 370TX is highly recommendable. But it may be a bit "stiffer" than the FCS.

**Basschair** · #4 02-22-2007, 02:13 PM

I really like the FCS strings, but for the money the Corellis are great. I'd agree that the 370F are probably closest to the FCS strings, and don't care too much for the 370TX series. 370M's are nice and loose, a little bright, and not as loud.
380M's are very similar in feel, though not as bright.

That's all I have to say about that.

Michael Glynn · #5 02-23-2007, 09:45 AM

Thanks for the help, guys. So it looks like some people like the 370F and some like the 370TX. Those of you that have played on both the 370TX and the FCS (the new ones, not orig. flat-chrome, just so we're clear), would you say the TX is brighter than the FCS? How does the arco response compare (scratchiness, etc.)?

Thanks again

Bobby King · #6 02-23-2007, 10:31 AM

I personally like the 370M the best on my bass, but that may be because it's 43.5" scale and the lower tension works well. Also, I'm not really looking for more brightness that the heavier gauges give. The 370M still has a pizz that has more brights and sustain than say Flexicor, but not too much for my taste. Many people seem to like the Forte though. I'd say that either one will be superior, less scratchy, better response than FCS.

Istar · #7 02-23-2007, 04:58 PM

On my bass the FCS where a little brighter. And the bowability on the 370 is also a lot better.
All in all i`d say it all depends on what you want just that little bit more arco or pizz. If the answer is arco go with corelli if pizz fo with the FCS. If its 50/50 I would still go with corelli but that may also depend on your bass.