/ Register

Flatwounds Most Like Hi-Beams?

Discussion in 'Strings [BG]' started by powellmacaque, Jul 28, 2017.

Tags:
  1. Jul 28, 2017 #1
    powellmacaque

    powellmacaque

    Aug 16, 2006
    Inverness, FL
    I've been playing DR Hi-Beams for well over a decade now and every time I try something else out I'm just disappointed and end up switching back, with the notable exception of using Sunbeams on my fretless last year. I've been thinking about using flatwounds on a project I'm taking part in for the next few months, and I was wondering if there were flats that felt like Hi-Beams, at least as far as tension goes?

    EDIT: Sorry for the previous confusion, I was typing really late after work and didn't proofread.
     
    Last edited: Aug 1, 2017
  2. Jul 28, 2017 #2
    SLaPiNFuNK

    SLaPiNFuNK Inactive Commercial User

    Jul 28, 2006
    LA California
    The Brains: FretNation.com
    DR Legends aka Hi-Beam Flats?
     
    powellmacaque likes this.
  3. Jul 28, 2017 #3
    mdogs

    mdogs Supporting Member

    Apr 13, 2010
    Where would you like me to be?
    This is a joke, right?
     
  4. Jul 28, 2017 #4
    michael_t

    michael_t

    Feb 11, 2013
    49.8951 N, 97.1384 W
    Are you actually talking about flats that feel and sound like the Hi-Beams (as in rounds)? I don't think there is such a thing.
     
  5. Jul 28, 2017 #5
    knumbskull

    knumbskull

    Jul 28, 2007
    UK
    in terms of *sound*, i don't think the flatwound exists that will get you a similar tone :D

    in terms of feel, you might try searching for low-tension flats.
     
  6. Jul 28, 2017 #6
    markjazzbassist

    markjazzbassist

    Apr 19, 2005
    Shaker Heights, OH
    labella low tension flats - low tension and mid scooped
    or
    d'addario chromes - get a thinner set like .40-100 and it's got the mid scoop with some high end.

    the DR legends are more like lo-rider flats. super mid heavy. so i wouldn't recommend them if you want that super scooped hi beam sound.
     
    gscroggin likes this.
  7. Jul 28, 2017 #7
    Pier_

    Pier_

    Dec 22, 2013
    Roma, Italia
    Ernie Ball Slinky Flats? I've never tried them, but they are advertised as being flexible and bright
     
  8. Jul 28, 2017 #8
    Tony In Philly

    Tony In Philly Supporting Member

    Oct 25, 2007
    Filthydelphia, USA
    The sound of Rotosound 77's flatwounds are the gateway drug for any roundwound types who want to dip their toe in the flatwound water. They are exceptionally bright when you first put them on. I would also recommend the 40-60-80-100 set first because the 45-65-85-105 set apparently has some extra tension.

    I do, however, have to agree with many on this site that TI flatwounds are the best bang for the buck - put 'em on once and leave ' em on forever. They aren't for everybody, but on some basses they sound really great.
     
  9. Jul 28, 2017 #9
    mpdd

    mpdd neoconceptualist

    Mar 24, 2010
    LA
    dunlop flats are pretty bright until they settle down, but even then they're still way brighter than la bellas
     
  10. Jul 28, 2017 #10
    tallboybass

    tallboybass Supporting Member

    Feb 25, 2003
    Tulsa, Oklahoma
    Right, the Cobalt Flats in the lightest gauge are as close as you'll get...which isn't very close at all.
     
  11. Aug 1, 2017 #11
    powellmacaque

    powellmacaque

    Aug 16, 2006
    Inverness, FL
    Sorry for the late response y'all, work got a bit hectic this week.

    Yes, I meant "feel" as in tension and playability, I know the tone won't be anywhere near the same. Every flat wound I've played has just been too tense for me so I'm wondering if anything has a bit less tension.