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Ernie Ball strings, really that bad?

#21
#22
I find EB strings too floppy and they die within 2-3 weeks of regular use. This is with rounds. The issue with them dying should be a moot point with flats since most of the time you want to them to get that "dead" sound. So, if you like loose tension, they should be fine I would guess. But, I don't like the rounds, for what that's worth.
 
#23
I do have to add, if your local music store is dropping down to only one brand of bass strings, that sounds like a major red flag on their long term prospects. You might want to start researching some other outlets in your area (if they exist and you haven't checked them out already), and/or get comfortable with the idea of buying gear online in case this store is the only one in town and winds up going under.
 
#24
I like them and use the rounds.
After they "cure" (PC way of saying die), I've found them to be entirely consistent. I like a lot of midrange and play with a very heavy attack fingerstyle, that may be why I can get a long term tone out these strings. I like the tension and the feel of the string, but they aren't first class. I guess it really comes down to their price is attractive and I can get a lot of consistency out of them. Nothing more frustrating than purchasing some expensive strings, and having them be dead or inconsistent right out of the bag.
 
#26
Ernie Ball strings are not bad, really. They're stock on all Musicman basses, I think. Personally, I prefer Rotosounds or DR Hi-Beams, because they're stainless rather than nickel.

I use Roto flats on one of my jazz basses, but wouldn't expect there to be much difference if I tried the EB flats.
 

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