Care, feeding and changing schedule for stainless steel strings?

[vindibona1]

When I bought my Sandberg bass I discovered that it came with SS strings in a special lighter gauge. It has sounded terrific and I have no thought to even try different strings. I have a couple replacement sets on hand because they have to be ordered from Europe, specifically the Netherlands.

I have noticed that these strings tend to lose their zip a little faster than my nickel plated strings. I purchased this bass mid February and already changed the strings once. I practice a little bit every day, usually play out a few hours on Friday nights, so not like someone gigging every night.

So, how can I prolong the life of SS strings and if there is nothing that can be done to do that, how long is a reasonable period of time before changing them?

 

[michael_t]

how long is a reasonable period of time before changing them?

That's a very subjective question as it all depends on what you would consider optimal for your ideal bass tone. Some like them "fresh and zingy" while others like them "nicely settled and worn in". Let your ears tell you when it's time for a change.

 

[trothwell]

I'm more the opposite -- for whatever reason, I find that most nickel strings get unacceptably deadened faster than most stainless steel strings.

But in any case, I have found that using some GHS Fast Fret helps to keep strings sounding fresher longer. I don't know that it's "supposed" to be a string longevity tool, but it works for me!

 

[eriky4003]

I'd say wipe down the strings after playing with a paper towel (I use my paper towels until they are falling apart) and case your bass. Make sure you wash your hands before playing if your hands are dirty.