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Favorite strings for Mustang

gnome01

gnome01

Oct 30, 2001
309
64
48
Bronx NY, USA
#1
Hey all, I’m looking for a new set of flats for my ‘75 Mustang bass which has thru body stringing. I’ve been using the Labella Mustang set but am having problems getting the E string to articulate, especially with my thumb. I’ve tried replacing just that string, raising and lowering the pickup, the string height, just about everything and just can’t get any sound out of that string with my thumb, which is mostly how I play. Might be an issue particular to my bass, but figured I oughta try a different set and see if the situation improves - so Mustang players, hit me!
 
#2
God's gift to short scale bass players: GHS Balanced Nickels. They are consistent in both tone and feel string-to-string and up the neck. They have big, round, tone. Nickel, being more dense than NPS, has more tension for the same diameter, so the strings are stable and secure in intonation. They don't flop, twang, or go thud. They are reasonably priced. They last a long, long time (I had a set that lasted through two annual tours to Mexico). With the round core, they are flexible. Yes, they are round wounds, but after they seat in, they take on that woody goodness of Fender flats from the golden age. I use them on my short scale travel bass, which has a Nordy Mustang pickup.
 
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#3
I've been playing Dunlop medium scale flats on my JMJ Mustang. Switched from GHS precision flats. If you're looking for more articulation/definition on your E string I would definitely recommend them. They're more modern than La Bella's, but not quite as modern as something like Ernie Ball cobalt flats.
 
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#4
BudLightYear said:
I've been playing Dunlop medium scale flats on my JMJ Mustang. Switched from GHS precision flats. If you're looking for more articulation/definition on your E string I would definitely recommend them. They're more modern than La Bella's, but not quite as modern as something like Ernie Ball cobalt flats.
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Ah cool, I have the short scale ones on another bass, definitely worth a try - but is your Mustang a string thru body version?
 
#9
I know this is a dead thread but was wondering what the OP ended up with.

I just got a JMJ and threw La Bellas on it and had the same problem. The E string just doesn't do it for me. It's a shame since I love the rest of them.

Right now it's wearing a set of Chromes which came on it (bought it used). I actually like those on the Mustang for a rock tone (especially with a pick)but am looking to try others. I might check out the Dunlops.
 

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