Hypoallergenic Hardware

[doctormoose87]

Hey all

This has probably been done before but I'd just thought I'd leave some info.

I suffer from a nickel and zinc allergy (contact dermatitis) and I've had my bass refretted with a fretwire called Jescar Evo Gold. It's awesome it's more than halved the eczema I get from playing. But I still have to find completely nickel free strings. Could anyone shed some light?

Cheers

 

[Dave W]

Stainless steel strings?

 

[john grey]

It's unique that you should bring this question up as i was discussing this just recently (although in a differing context).
The problem would seem to be microscopic particulate matter (sub-micron size shavings and material) and that is very difficult to remove. Stainless steel strings are an excellent suggestion. However those strings are drawn on machining that also has rolled nickel strings or has nickel-hardened composition rollers.
Strings are often collectors of metal powder due to the manner in which a core is wrapped. The problem is that the metal powder is NOT on the surface but within the wrappings. This was pointed out to me by someone who worked with Bass strings and believed that those with the most limited amount of particulate would maintain the "new sound" the longest. He sent me two macro photos and he was correct.

 

[FunkMetalBass]

Stainless steel strings are your best bet to minimize irritation. And plenty of flats are made from steel as well, so there are tonal options beyond harsh-sounding rounds.