String sets vs. individual strings

[skipper]

Reading the Forum, I see that many double bassists pick individual strings that sound best to them and which are satisfactory for different applications. I have only bought sets of strings, however, believing that there are advantages to having strings that are "matched" to one another. Are strings "matched" in a set or merely packaged together?

Right now, I have Obligatos on my bass, a recommendation from Lemur Music. I play pizz exclusively. I read about the Upton Innovation Blacks and wonder if anyone has tried them.

[TroyK]

I'm a confessed string mixer and matcher, but I will say that there are advantages of using full sets:

1) It's generally cheaper
2) They theoritically match each other in gauge, tension, feel, tone, etc. There are some sets with single matching issues.
3) You will stay sane longer if you don't chase those perfect string cocktails.

If you can be happy with a full set, good on ya and don't dip your toe into these evil waters.

I've had a full matched set on my bass for almost 6 months now for the first time in years, but I am feeling the temptation to stray again. I'll resist as long as I can.

[Chasarms]

Originally Posted by skipper

. . Are strings "matched" in a set or merely packaged together? . . .

They are matched in that they are mostly of the same design and composition. But, the wrinkle is that a string can behave radically different on different basses. The string length, setup and general character of the bass play a giant role.

If a bass feels loose and sloppy on the E and/or A, you'll often see a heavier string there. Spirocore weich D and G is very often paired with a mittel (medium) or even stark (heavy) E string. You'll see the A be from either set. My favorite spirocore experience ever was weich D,G and mittel E,A.

In fact, you'll see a spirocore E paired with all sorts of strings.

I also see a lot of guys using a darker, more dampened G and sometimes D if the bass is naturally a little twangy. For example, a Flexocor G or the new TI Belcanto G might match nice with an otherwise bright pizz set if there's too much twang on the G.

You aren't really trying to balance the strings, you are trying to balance the bass.

I prefer to play a full set, but I don't worry that much about it. I have spirocore E that I have tried with every set I have ever had on the bass. I have Belcantos on my bass right now and am very happy with them.