Double Bass Mixing string sets (and tension)

[NickyBass]

I have a set of Flexocore Deluxe on my Seth Kimmel bass, which is set up for 100% orchestral playing. I love the G and D strings. The A is nice, but I wish the E was more responsive. I am going to try a Permanent E and possibly a Permanent A. I know that I'm just going to have to try it out since every string sounds different on every bass and under every bow, but I am wondering if I should have any concerns about mixing strings with different tensions. My main concern is having different tensions on different sides on the top.

 

[erniepro]

Hi
Spirocore E Mittel ( extended E/C in this case) works well on my bass with Flex Deluxe above

 

[Sam Dingle]

If you're looking for a strong E string try the spiro E. A great bassist named Dave Anderson uses the Spiro Stark (heavy gauge) E/C string with mittel A and Belconto D/G. The tension thing depends on your bass and how it (she) reacts. Only luck and experimentation will help.

 

[NickyBass]

I've heard about the Spiro E. If the Permanent doesn't work out, the Spirocore Stark may be the next step.

 

[MikeCanada]

I would think that the Permanent E would be closer than the Spirocore Stark in tension, but it has been a while since I have used either one. As far as different tensions go, most basses can handle slight differences. The odd bass will be really sensitive but typically you can mix medium/mittel/normal tension strings with either end of the spectrum. You will usually notice it being awkward under both hands when string crossing if you mix tensions too much. The majority of players will avoid that kind of awkwardness, which tends to be a self-selecting way to avoid having dramatic changes in tension across the instrument.

 

[NickyBass]

I tried the Permanent E and A under the Flex Deluxes. I noticed a difference in volume and feel under the same relative bow pressure. The Permanents can knock a building over. They are powerful strings. I liked them a lot at first and was going to swap to a full set, but, in the end decided that I preferred the details of the Deluxes. On my bass, the Permanents had a slightly quicker response, but didn't have the warmth of the Flexes.

 

[MikeCanada]

Give the Permanents a bit of time. They aren't quite like brand new Spirocores, but they do need some time to mellow a bit. They likely won't be as warm as the Flexicore Deluxes on top, but you should warm up to them.

Pun definitely intended, but also my personal experience with the strings.

 

[NickyBass]

Thanks for the info Mike. I switched them back already but the process certainly made me appreciate the Deluxes a lot more and now I am happy with them.

I might try them again, but I'm going to wait until the fall season starts to start swapping...so I can hear them in the section.

 

[MikeCanada]

I'm glad I can be of some help. I'm not necessarily trying to make a convert out of you, and I know they aren't for everyone. I'm a big fan of that "knock a building over" sound, and have two Spirocores on the bottom of my bass making the Permanents my warm/mellow choice in the mix. Even when they do have a chance to settle down a bit, they might still not be for you. I just think it's worth noting that a bit of time serves them well, much like Spirocores. I tend to time string changes when I know I don't have to play in public for a few days, as fresh Spirocores and Permanents turn some heads, especially in sections.