I come from a similar background. The only effect I had ever used was the built in chorus in my GK amp but I recently started branching out. I recently purchased TC Electronic pedals and have been pleased. A friend swore by them and some of my heroes have used TC Electronic for years. I have...
I use Elixirs and I love them. I also use DM Blue Steels. As for trimming, I generally trim them about 8" past the end of the bass and that has worked fine for me for many years.
HAHA! Rush used GK back in mid 80s. Why are they not there??? :crying:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/12/07/143261555/shouldnt-rush-be-in-the-rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame
IIRC, they were both using Rotosound brands because I remember buying the same strings when I started to play back in 86 when I wanted to be like them :) :bassist: