Flatwound Tension Comparisons Thread

[Mastermold]

I just put some Roto 77's (105-45) on my Geddy and the neck bowed like crazy. Can I use the heavier tension flats on this bass if I adjust the truss rod, or do I have to switch to lighter tension ones?

Either go lighter tension or adjust that truss.

I tried a set of those same Rotos on my 59 CS P-Bass and changed them out the next day for a set of D'Addario Chromes. Not only did the Rotosound strings torque my neck, they were way too bright. The D'Addarios have a nice deep warm tone, and a lot less tension (just the right amount IMO). And the neck settled back down too once I strung them so I didn't have to mess with the truss setting.

 

[Mastermold]

Anyone here tried the Fender 9050L Flatwounds , I know the the other Fender flats are like bridge cables but how is the tension of these , how does it compare with other flats

I like the 9050ML guage. Like bridge cables, sure, but in a good way if what you want is that old-school "thump" without much ring.

 

[Bass4LifeRS]

Would be cool if someone could measure the string tension at pitch. Is there a way to do that? Anyone with a "special machine" or something?

 

[spcmstrbtasp]

Does anyone use the Lakland Flats? I've heard that they are similar to if not made by GHS. How would they rank on this 1-10 tension scale? Specifically, I'm interested in the light gauge 40-100 set.

Spc

 

[walruswaspaul]

have just strung my bass with some Black Diamond Flatwounds , they feel kinda highish tension (could be because it had rounds on previously) , would be interested to see if anyone else has tried these , how you find the tension on these

 

[Marcus]

TI flats are made from divine hair. I cannot play any other flat ever again.

 

[rodl2005]

What are the GHS flats like?- sorry to go OT, But am interested in trying a set- as flats are in short supply here-so I can't try a set, or even check 'em out , have to order online :-(

 

[Mastermold]

What are the GHS flats like?- sorry to go OT, But am interested in trying a set- as flats are in short supply here-so I can't try a set, or even check 'em out , have to order online :-(

I'd be interested to know too. Never used them either.

 

[bthiemann80]

I just popped a set of the GHS Precision flatwounds on a precision. At first they're very chalky feeling and sound a bit bright and harsh. They're also pretty tense, not as tense as the Fender flats, but definately more tense than a set of TI's. I"ve been playing on them for almost a week and they've toned down a bit. They sound to me like a textbook flatwound should sound with a good amount of thump and note definition.

Another thing I found cool about these flats is that they just look like old flats, to me anyways. With the semi-darkened metallic color and deep/dark violet silk ends, they win out in the looks category! haha