Compare Ernie Balls and nickel DR Lo-Riders please...

I've ran both DR and EB's on my guitars and get nice tone out of both. Depending on how much you play would determine the frequency of changing your strings, that and your budget. You can get good string deals on ebay and or other online sources if your local music store does not carry them, or they want to much for the strings.
Warm tone is capable with both manufacturers just tweak your amp or p/u's a little.
Good Luck.



Chopper.

 

I've used earnies so long I can't comment on anything other,but I change strings every 3 shows or sometimes sooner if I play outside or thet get wet or something like that.

 

well this is kinda for any strings , but if you didnt kno that if you buy the strings in bulk, the music store usually gives u a discount.

 

IMO, EB's can't compare with DR lo's.

 

I agree, DR's last a lot longer, too.

 

I usually use low riders but needed a set recently for a gig. The shop I went to didn't have much of a selection. I had heard good things about Ernie Ball's here at TB so I bought a set. I was surprised how much I liked them at first, but they didn't last long. The sound originally was comparable, though not as good IMO as DR's, and they went dead in short order. I found them hard to tune after a couple of weeks. That is an indication of the quality of any string IMO. I change my DR's usually just to change them because I think I need new ones, not because they go dead or something. They really last, sound great the whole time they are on the guitar, and remain stable for tuning. DR Low Riders are STIFFER . They use a hexigonal core. I like it, many don't. They also come in nickel or stainless, you may want to try the nickel as they may be easier on your fingers keeping in mind they won't be as bright. If you like a more flexible string they also make "High Beams" which have a round core and so they are easier to bend. I think the Sunbeams are the nickel version of High Beams. I would highly recommend you give DR's a try.

 

I'm not sure how much more flex you will get out of a smaller guage. I would stick with what you like or maybe one size down. And consider high beams as they have a round core, but are stainless. I am pretty sure the Sunbeams are nickel-a little mellower and softer. So if you thought the Sunbeams were rough, these will be rougher. I like the stiffness of the Low Riders and if you are buying the heavier strings for more tension you may like it also. The feel of the string may be a little rougher than the EB's, but I think after you play them a while it won't bother you. Take a chance, thats the only way to find out for sure. And if you go with the nickel plated Low Rider's they aren't quite as bright but are a little easier on your fingers and frets. The also make a string called "Fat Beams" which I haven't tried yet. Check um out !! www.drstrings.com

 

Only you can answer that question after you try them, They seem to last forever for me as I stated earlier.
SEE YA,
Bizz