Flatwound for a fretless acoustic BG?

[SteveChatterton]

I was given a Dean fretless acoustic BG with roundwound strings in lieu of payment on a gig last year, and I'm enjoying it immensely; digging into my jazz studies again & wondering if an upright might be in my future - but I digress...

It makes no sense to me to have a fretless instrument with roundwound strings. There's a nasty squeak every time I slide.

Does anyone make flatwounds especially for acoustic BGs? If not, what would be the consequence if I were to put strings for an electric on an acoustic?

Thanks.

 

[fretlessguy]

I've heard of flatwounds (Phosphor bronze) for acoustic electric bass but have never seen them.
You can use your ordinary flats for your ABG. They will work just fine. Tapewounds will work okay too, you just need to take into account their extra thickness and if they will fit your bridge. Also, you might want to stick to lighter gauges due to the pressure of some flats' higher tension (which could cause the top problems).
I really like GHS Precision Flats in .45-.95 gauges. They will reduce the finger noise since they are smooth and will give an acoustic electric bass a sort of "upright" sound. A friend of mine uses TI Jazz flats on his ABG and it really sounds good.

 

[SteveChatterton]

Thanks, fretlessguy.

I'll take a look at my local shops & see what I can get. I'm totally trying to sound like an upright without the expense of actually buying one for the moment.

 

[davecanady]

Thanks, fretlessguy.

I'll take a look at my local shops & see what I can get. I'm totally trying to sound like an upright without the expense of actually buying one for the moment.

Steve,

What did you end up doing? I find myself in the same situation.

Dave