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Cleaning Acoustic Strings

Spinal Tapper

Spinal Tapper

Nov 15, 2007
6,797
348
Chicago
soundcloud.com
#1
Hey all!
I just got a Dean Playmate Acoustic bass for a super low price. Anyways, its used and has old strings. I don't really want to go out and buy new ones, because I like the dull sound I'm getting out of the strings that are on there currently - sounds just like an upright (w/ frets LOL).

My question - maybe a dumb one: Can I just clean the ones that are on there instead of buying new ones so I don't have to put new ones on since I already love how it sounds?
 
#4
Spinal Tapper said:
Hey all!
I just got a Dean Playmate Acoustic bass for a super low price. Anyways, its used and has old strings. I don't really want to go out and buy new ones, because I like the dull sound I'm getting out of the strings that are on there currently - sounds just like an upright (w/ frets LOL).

My question - maybe a dumb one: Can I just clean the ones that are on there instead of buying new ones so I don't have to put new ones on since I already love how it sounds?
Click to expand...

If you love how it currently sounds, why mess with the formula (cleaning the strings)? You'll pretty much be eliminating the dull, upright-esque tone you have right now if you clean the strings. Like flats, some players like the tone that an old, dirty set of roundwound strings provides & the older they get the better they sound (to some, anyway).

Just my opinion... :D
 
#6
Buskman said:
If you love how it currently sounds, why mess with the formula (cleaning the strings)? You'll pretty much be eliminating the dull, upright-esque tone you have right now if you clean the strings. Like flats, some players like the tone that an old, dirty set of roundwound strings provides & the older they get the better they sound (to some, anyway).

Just my opinion... :D
Click to expand...

They basically make my fingers smell like an old oil can. That's pretty much my only complaint - I just have to wash my hands after every use...
 

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