I'm looking for some ideas of higher tension strings. I've got some Regular Slinky's on right now but for some reason they feel kinda 'floppy'. What are some higher tension strings you use or know of?
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Higher tension strings
- Thread starter secondbestcody
- Start date
I don't understand what you mean. From what I'm gathering, you're saying that if I like the Regular Slinky's I'm using now, I can get the same string and gauge at a higher tension?
If you like your strings but want them to have higher tension, Ernie Ball makes a set with larger gauges and higher tension. Larger gauge = more tension (generally speaking). If you're using a 100 gauge E string right now, you can get a set with a 105 gauge E string. The 105 will have more tension.
Ok that makes way more sense than what I was thinking when I read your last post. Yeah I figured I'd try the heavier gauge ones.
or you can just stick with the same diameter of strings you're using & get hex-core GHS Boomers
a larger gauge in the AWG system is actually a smaller diameter
i.e. : 10 awg is larger than 12 awg
The numbers on the packets of bass strings are actually in 1,000th of an inch, for instance 45 - 105 is actually 0.045" - 0.105".
a larger gauge in the AWG system is actually a smaller diameter
i.e. : 10 awg is larger than 12 awg
The numbers on the packets of bass strings are actually in 1,000th of an inch, for instance 45 - 105 is actually 0.045" - 0.105".
On 5 string you don't have as many choices. My Blue Steels are .045 to .128, they're a little floppy but sound great. I have a 35 scale bass.
- Jun 29, 2006
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EB Cobalts are probably the stiffest I have used (and one of the best sounding!). Dr Lo Riders also have pretty high tension, but the Cobalts seem a bit stiffer.
any round with a hex core.....DR and other has them. Low rider nickel or steel for DR. One of the GHS Bass Boomers also has hex core.
For the most part, high tension strings only make a difference on 5'ers and short-scale basses. D'Addario Chromes are top of the pile, for me. Again, certain bass/string combos just work. And no amount of EQ, amp or pedals can change what your ears tell you. You can only manipulate the signal so much before you lose something. It's a personal issue. And higher tension strings will also affect your tone and playing style. But like the old computer joke goes; crap in, crap out.
After switching back to rounds after a few years on flats, I prefer a string with a bit more tension. I like DR Nickle Lo-riders so far.
Dunlop makes sets specifically for down tunning which would mean more tension at E standard. There is also the wonderful world of Flatwounds.
Not so much these days. There are hex core strings now that feel very round core like and even with a hex core, if the actual diameter of that hex core is thin the more flexible they will be.
So DR Low Riders, GHS Boomers and Dunlop Super Brights are some good higher tension strings. I like the DR Black Beauties and I've been thinking about trying the Low Riders. I think I'll pick up a pack this weekend.
regular old D'Addario Nickels are pretty stiff as well. They're my go-to nowadays. I'm with you, I hate floppy strings. Flubbed notes, extra clank, and buzz for days.
I will say that D'Addarios have a very distinct high-midrange presence in both their bass and guitar strings. You either love it or hate it.
I will say that D'Addarios have a very distinct high-midrange presence in both their bass and guitar strings. You either love it or hate it.
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The Lo-Riders and the Boomers are among the stiffer ones, but the Dunlop SBs are anything but stiff due to their small hex core.
