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Flatwound for jazz and funk

S

scoleo7

Sep 10, 2009
3
0
#1
I'm a newbie here. I've browsed around trying to find answers to this question, but nothing really cuts right to it because my question is a little different than what I've seen.

I have a fretted 5-string Squire Active V. I'm curious about flatwound strings that are good for both straight ahead jazz (upright vibe) as well as funk (slaps, etc). I know these styles are diverse, but does anyone have a flatwound string they could recommend for someone who wanted to be diverse without having to get a second axe?
 
#5
I am partial to the Fender 9053 S's that I have been using. With your active bass I am not sure how that would sound. I know when I use the Sansamp, which is essentially an active boost, the sound is not quite as nice as with the passive. Best bet might be to find a local TB-er who has a bass strung with flats and try them out.
 
#9
Of all the ones I've used, I think the Sadowsky flats are right for what you want. They sound brighter than most of the others & the notes are more distinct. My personal faves are Dogal Jacos from Italy. They're hard to find. Lately I use EB flats because they're readily available here. They are huge on the bottom side.
 
#15
I love flatwounds strings.

I tried on my Precision first a set of Thomastik Infeld (TI) Jazz Flats but I didn't love how the E string sounded nor I got accostumed to the low tension that seemed to slow down a bit my playing, but I'm sure it's my issue, not the strings.
Then I moved recently to the D'addario Chromes. THey're settling in, but I suspect I will leave these on the Precision.

I just now put the TI Jazz Flats set I used on my Jazz Bass (it's a passive Fender MIA '75 Re-issue) and I test them only in my dormitory. I love the sound so far, I will try them at rehearsal today.

I have to say though that flatwounds strings, although they are perfect for fingerstyle funk, don't produce a great slap sound in my opinion.

Here a lot of info about fltawounds
 
#16
Sounds like maybe DR Hi-Beam Flatwounds would give you the tone your looking for. Tried a set recently and really liked them. They are stainless steel so they have a subtle brightness, and they have a round core so they are a slightly more flexible than most flats. They have a nice warm sound inherent in all flats, but have a slight 'pop' to them which makes them nice for more percussive and slap techniques.
 

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