Double Bass Helicore Pizz Problem...and the Solution

[Bergerman]

I recently ordered a set ot Helicore Pizzicatos Mediums, went to put them on yesterday. Major problems soon became evident...the "E" string had a big gap in the winding near the octave with the core showing, creating a really bad rough spot and the "A" string had windings so loose they crinkled when you touched the string. Not what I expected from a manufacturer like D'addario.

I found the solution today...I arranged a return of the D'addarios, and ordered a set of Spirocore Mittels as a replacement. By almost all forum accounts, I should be much happier in the long run...looking forward to giving them a try!

 

[TroyK]

Sadly, it sort of is what I expect from D-Addario. They would have replaced them, I'm sure and you could have gotten to a good set, but may have needed to go through a few.

Spirocores are much higher quality strings. You'll know that just by looking at them. Let them break in and you should be good for a few years...if you don't read this forum.

 

[Bergerman]

Troy,

Great point on staying out of the string forum

They offered to replace them, but I don't want to work that hard to get a decent set of strings...I just want to get a set I like and age gracefully with them. Seems like the Spiros are the best bet for that.

 

[TroyK]

It's a better set of strings. Safe to assume that in longevity alone, they will not in the long run be more expensive.

 

[Pat Harris]

I've been using the D'addario Medium Pizz for about 3 years now, and I suspect I put on a "weak" set this past April. They just seemed to die really fast this time, and I can usually get a year out of a set with some heavy gigging and rehearsing.

I wasn't aware of their inconsistencies in strings... perhaps I'll go back to my Thomastik Solo Gauge in standard tuning.

 

[Tha Ridla]

Funny you should say about D'Addario. I had a set of hybrids and I really liked them. I was doing an important recording so replaced them especially. The next set didn't really sound any better than the old ones I had just taken off!

I'm going back to the Spiros....

M

 

[martinc]

I like the sound of D'Addario Pizz mediums on the A and D but I have never been able use both of them because I got two A's in a row that buzzed like crazy.
I tried a Jazzer and a Corelli A after that and like 'em both. No buzzes.