Good Jazz Strings?

[Ineedahobbie]

Hello everyone,
I'm playing my upright almost everyday, and I'm primarily a jazz player. The bass I have rented is a bit old, and the strings that came on it are VERY old and tired. I play about 65% jazz, and 35% orchestral. I'm looking for a great jazz string that will also sound good for classical work when I need it to. Any suggestions?

[JtheJazzMan]

What "Jazz" sound do you like? Which players are you into?

To keep things simple and affordable Id just recommend Spirocores for a brighter sound Evah Pirrazis for a slightly darker rounded sound.

Or jump on the string experimenting train at your own peril.

[Ineedahobbie]

I'm into Ray Brown's tone, and of course I'm a disciple of Mingus. Evah Pirazzi's seem to be a good choice.

[hdiddy]

or Spiro Weich. IIRC, that's what Mr. Brown was using later on.

[Greg Clinkingbeard]

Want to sound like (insert name here) ? Read this! (DB forum thread)

Strings are a big part of your sound, but they have to work well on your bass to help you sound like you want to. They are only a tool.

As a reference point, find out what strings you have on now and go from there. This may help:http://www.quinnviolins.com/qv_stringidsearch.shtml

Once you discover what you have now, do a search to see how most people think those strings sound like on their basses. If, for example, you have old arco friendly strings and want more pizz response you will be better informed. Strings are expensive and you won't want to ride the merry-go-round. If you do wish to experiment, try to buy used.

FWIW, spirocores are the default jazz string and hdiddy gave good advice.

[jrlynch]

i will say that the talk bass classifieds are a great way to experiment, without going broke. i'd read up, then troll. all the great strings pretty much hit the classifieds with some regularity.

jeff.