Sort this out for me...Bluegrass/Arco/What?

[nonfatmatt]

So I need a set of strings for my Czech flatback starter bass. The kicker is I play traditional Ska and Bluegrass, but would like to keep playing arco too to keep my technique (or lack thereof). I have Obligatos on there now, and while they have a nice thump the E and A seem to lack definition. My main problem is tension, as I'm playing these 3 hour gigs with no amplification and I also have some arthritis problems in my hands. I've looked at all the string matrixes and all that but at this point I need some advice. Gollihur seems to recommend the Corelli Fortes as low tension but I'm not sure if they'd fit my situation so:

The Criteria
Low tension/easy on the hands
good for pizz but also bowable for practices.

Any ideas?

[TroyK]

Velvet Compas 180s?

Low tension, nice arco strings, has been called a "hybrid" string from time to time, tough I think they are intended for classical use.

Spirocore solos might be a good choice. They sound great pizz and were a breeze to bow.

These both noticably lower in tension than what you're using choices, though.

There are a whole family of strings that are close to what you're using that may speak better than Obligatos; Evah Pirazzi weichs, Innovation Honey's, Kolstein Heritage...

Then there are good old, plain gut. Bowable, but on a limited basis, depending on what your needs are.

[Gearhead43]

I think a solo steel string (tuned EADG) would be a good way to go also.

Trad Ska ala Lloyd Brevett? Let me know when you are playing!

[Andrew McGregor]

Corelli, for sure... and maybe not even Forte, although you might find you need that tension level to get enough sound. Corelli tension levels are lower than anyone else's, so even the Fortes will be pretty low tension. I have some tungsten mediums on my bass, and they sound a lot like Spiro Weichs, although much easier under the left hand and somewhat easier to bow.

[TroyK]

Originally Posted by Andrew McGregor

Corelli tension levels are lower than anyone else's,...

I don't think they are lower than Velvets, but we'd have to check the chart.

[Andrew McGregor]

Um, yes, that may be so. They're incredibly low for what are basically metal strings...

[nonfatmatt]

Just as a note it's not the left hand tension that's killing me it's the right.

[kwd]

Nonfat

I have arthritis in my right shoulder, some off-and-on tendonitis in my right arm and forearm, and an RSI in my right shoulder. About 6 months ago I started an experiment to see if low tension strings would minimize my pain. For three months I played with Corelli 380 mediums followed by 3 months of Dominants. I can't say that I had less flare ups in the Corelli months. My explanation is that I'm going to pull as hard as I need to get the volume I want regardless of the string tension. If you're having pain with Oblis, chances are that will continue with Corellis. I'm not trying to knock Corellis or endorse Dominants. They're both great strings.

I think that low tension strings provide relief for people struggling with left hand pain.

You might reconsider the 'no amp' thing. I played at an open mic without and amp because neither of the house amps worked with my pickup. I was toast after 5 songs. I usually don't have trouble playing 3 hours with hourly breaks with an amp.


good luck

[nonfatmatt]

I called Gollihur and went with the Corelli fortes....we'll see how it shakes out. Thanks.