Acoustic Bass String Innovations: Aquila Flat Spirals and Round Spirals

[Lance Bunyon]

Hi Lance
Thanks, I'm glad you like it!

I haven't made a 5 string. The trouble with acoustic basses is that you are really fighting physics. The amount of energy needed to get the top vibrating at low frequencies is 10 times what it is for a guitar. I have my doubts that a low B would be anything but disappointingly quiet and characterless. I know you can get them - Warwick Aliens come in 5 string versions, but my guess is they are a compromise that is probably not worth making. A high C on the other hand would be really really sweet sounding.

You are of course correct.
I have two ABGs with low B strings, a fretted 5 and a fretless 6.
The B on the 5 was a tough experience. The LaBella tape was weak. Phosphor Bronze Round was loud enough but sounded terrible.
I finally settled on a D'addario Chrome flat B.
The MF fretless 6 ABG has Thomastik flats, the B is close but a little anemic acoustically. It kinda farts out lol.

 

[LowEndSoul]

I just put the flat spirals on my ubass. Then I loved them so much that I took a chance and put them on my cheap 30" acoustic bass too. The e string was a little long on the 30", but I was able to get them installed without major issues. I got a nice beautiful, woody tone on both instruments. My ubass still has the nice pseudo-upright tone, but without the "rubber band" sound, and it's much louder. They feel a lot better under the fingers, making it easier to switch between it and my regular electrics. They feel and sound so much better that I think Kala should consider making these a stock option. They're also much louder acoustically on that instrument.

I detest phosphor bronze strings on a bass. And especially the scratchy noises, so they were a marked improvement on the regular acoustic bass. My abg is just an Amazon cheapy (actually, these strings probably cost more than the bass), but these made it sound like a real instrument!
Bravo on these strings , Aquila!

 

[SBassman]

I had to come back here and offer some love again. I have been away from the bass and TB for some time, and I am back to the bass.

When I picked up my Cordoba with Aquila Copper Flats, it was instant love again. They aged beautifully, sounding better than ever, and the feel is the Ultimate. Simply can't be beat.

These are the best flats on the planet - period.