New bass, keep stock strings?

[AObando2002]

Hey guys, just got a new bass, less than 2 weeks old. Getting it set up tomorrow and he said I could leave the stock strings on. I've never kept old/stock strings, is that normal or should I just swap them out? I was thinking of maybe polishing the frets a bit.

Just curious. Same gauge, same brand.

 

[Bodeeni]

If they are OK, why not use them up? If you are not cracked about them then switch. I would want to have nice strings a new bass, but the ones on it can be nice too. Happy new year

 

[AObando2002]

If they are OK, why not use them up? If you are not cracked about them then switch. I would want to have nice strings a new bass, but the ones on it can be nice too. Happy new year

Thanks! It was a special order bass so it was completed and received all within 15 days of bass being built. Normally, I'm with you. Every set up on guitar/bass for the past 20+ years has been new strings.

 

[ardgedee]

Do you like them? Keep them.

Don't like them? Replace them (but keep 'em in a baggie, because you never know).

You should learn how to do your own setup. It's easy, usually can be done with tools you already have (or which come with the instrument), and saves you money.

 

[Geri O]

That's a question for you.

The only deciding factor for you would be "do I like these strings?"

Answer that and you'll know what to do.....

 

[pepj]

In 2 weeks, I'd know if I liked the strings or not.
If you like them, and don't have your own favourite brand/gauge, keep them.

 

[Pdaddy1978]

Your luthier's advise is that the strings on your brand new bass are fine.
Why replace them?
I wouldn't replace anything that wasn't broken, non functioning, or otherwise offensive.
wear em out!

 

[DJ Bebop]

Sometimes I change strings only because some new basses come with nickel strings and I like steel. But I usually play them out until dull then switch over to my favorites. The last bass I got I liked the strings on it except the B string, I find it a bit heavy for my liking. Next set I will go for a lighter B, from 130 to 125-28 I think.

 

[JazznFunk]

Put the strings on that you know you like. Adjust accordingly. Rarely, if ever, do stock strings stay on any bass that I buy, especially if it's been a demo/floor model/previously used. I do a full setup, including fret dressing, whenever I get a new-to-me bass. That includes fresh strings for a fresh start.

 

[Pearly Gator]

4 of my 5 bass guitar have the original strings. One is a 2012 Bass VI.

 

[coy garcia]

I would change them with a fresh setup if I preferred a different type of strings. In my case I prefer flats. Otherwise leave them.

 

[Pings Bass]

I used to be picky, but when I started keeping stock strings I learned I don't hate flats on fretless EB. Ultimately I'm a "take it as it comes" guy (not just in bass strings) and my life is much more relaxed and focused on the important stuff (in this case, playing/practicing) when I'm not trying to fiddle with every last mechanical detail.

 

[Nebadon2000]

Depends on what strings came with Bass; In 2019 bought Fender Ultra P came with 7250's sounded excellent kept them on; same with 2023 Stingray Special sounded fine with EB Slinkys

I always used Nickel Rounds but if my preference was Flats or Steel Rounds might have switched after purchase.

When new string time came I considered keeping strings the same on both but I did a little research and wanted to try something different just because; put Markbass Ultimate Soft Touch Nickel's on P and EB Cobalt Flats on Stingray

 

[Five or Six]

I don't keep original strings on anything. I put on what I like and do my setup. That way I know what I've got.

 

[Igotsoul4u]

The first thing I do with a new guitar or bass is change the strings to my personal favorites and get a setup done. I rarely keep the stock strings on.

 

[logdrum]

I am frugal and will use the strings on the bass usually. for a while I've never bought a new bass usually used from TB or local used. Unless they are really old and dull - I gain from the experience of using something I've never used before.

 

[J Wilson]

If I'm reading this correctly, what's on there now is the 'same gage(s), same brand' you're thinking of installing.

If it would be a same-for-same swap/installation, I'd play the one currently installed out: You paid for them as part of your new bass

If I were having a bass set up by a pro, I always advise having it set up with a new set of the strings you normally use.

If they were already in place, I'd save the new set for when these wear out.

 

[GTHintz]

Hey guys, just got a new bass, less than 2 weeks old. Getting it set up tomorrow and he said I could leave the stock strings on. I've never kept old/stock strings, is that normal or should I just swap them out? I was thinking of maybe polishing the frets a bit.

Just curious. Same gauge, same brand.

All I can say is play it as is and go through the controls and blend pick-ups and get a good feel for what they are doing for your tone and go from there. I always play a new bass with whatever is on it when it gets to me first. I then start thinking about whether I like the tone or I think I can do better. Sometimes it'll be the wrong gauge for the bass for how I play. But always try it first to get a baseline.

 

[Zwitsal1989]

I always toss stock strings.
They are either mystery strings on the more affordable stuff or brand own like Gibson and fender using their own.

Ive never held a new bass with strings I like tbh.

 

[DrBnz]

I'd bet the bass manuf seal out the best deal w the string manuf to get a quality product at a low cost. 1. Cause it's just smart and 2. cause they know everybody has their personal beliefs and are likely to change them out anyways. So try them out. If you don't love them move on to your favorite.