Just took the chromes out of my fender jazz after using them for couple of years and installed a set of D'Addario Pro Steel. I was abit worry about it at first but after i plug the bass in and set all the EQ etc, the tone sound fantastic. It give me a new dimension of sound and tone on my jazz bass. I like my sounf very attacking, massive growl and aggressive so look like flats does not fit my purpose. But i got to admit the chromes sound very good if you like the mellow and warm type of sound. Also my jazz bass have J-Retro install and the combination of string and preamp together very please me.
I think eveybody should have at least one bass with rounds or one bass with flats. It adds another sound to your arsenal. I have played my passives with flats exclusively for the last 6 months or so. After being chosen to play in a Southern Gospel all star band of sorts I brought my fives out of retirement, which are strung with rounds, and I am enjoying them again and love the round sound. I do not think I will ever play one string type or the other exclusively anymore. I really enjoy all the different sounds you can get with a variety of string types and basses. FG
I have the same problem with deciding. So, one bass is strung with flats, the other with rounds. Right now, I am enjoying the rounds more. But, I can see the flats making there way back to my preference.
+1 Having been a guitar player first, I can say there isn't a TON of variation in tonal qualities between various brands of strings. Basically, it's about gauge -and while the there is *some* difference between brands, it's no where near the range of differences among the various styles, brands, and materials that are out there to chose from. Every pack of strings is a new adventure with the bass. Sometimes it's a pleasant surprise and sometimes you're disappointed. And granted, it's not free. But bass strings last so much long, you can switch back and forth and keep for a good long time. I think a lot of us spend way to much time thinking about what "Should" go with our bass (based on the model) and asking for personal references, particularly given that sound is such a personal thing. It keeps in fresh and a little exciting-just make the leap and discover for yourself what's out there- (flats, rounds, nickel, stainless, etc) . You may find, as I did, that there are various strings out there that suit you depending on your mood and what you're looking for. And it's truly the ONLY way you'll find out what works for you.
Interesting thread. From reading this, and other forums, the general consensus is normally for one or the other. Nice to know I'm not alone in liking both rounds and flats equally.
Yes I definitely use both. I have rounds on my Sabre to give it the extra clarity and growl but flats on the Ric, P and Jag as they give more thump and strength to the fundamental.
Though I see your point, & agree with it, I cannot say that EVERYONE needs both. Like the decision between Flats or Rounds, this decision depends on the bassist & their situation.
Yes, that is true. If one played a style of music that sounds better with a set flats or rounds, and that is what they are comfortable with, then that's okay. I play primarily Christian music, ranging from folk to contemporary and even country styles. Having basses with both types allows me to be a musical chamelion when needed. I also get dates where I have to fill in in other types of music as well, so I need a variety of sounds. Since bassists are so few we must be versatile, and our equipment (especially strings) must reflect this. Besides that, I would get bored playing the same type bass and strings anyway. Changing strings and experimenting with new ones is...theraputic to me.
I have D'addario Chromes on my P Rounds on my 4001 (RotoSound66) and Jackson Pro Concert V (LaBella SuperSteps) and Halfies (GHS Brite Flats) on my fretless Ripper (flats too thumpy!).
Yeah, interesting points bought up by many people so far. I have nothing against flats when i change them back to rounds, just i like to use rounds on my jazz to try out different tone etc on the bass that had flats on them for the last couple of years. I think at some point in the future i will throw the flats back on the jazz, but at the moment i like rounds.