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Double Bass NS EUB megathread

I've got a CR-4M and I love it! I don't mind the stock strings that came on it, I've got an acoustic upright for the "acoustic upright" sound. I love the sound of a full scale upright string and the NS has it!

It's just a joy to be able to take my upright bass and bass guitar to a rehearsal or gig in my regular cab pick-up truck when it's raining, and still have room in the cab for my wife! (I bring the bass guitar too, so that she has to sit closer to me!)
 
I played my brand-new CR-4M at a gig in Melbourne last night for the first time, and it was great. Only problem: I've put a set of Spirocore Weichs on, which has improved the sound heaps, but I find the G-string is heaps quieter than the others and tends to get a bit lost amongst the band. Any ideas?
I'm taking the bass on a European tour April/May and am looking forward not to carry a big bastard around.
 
Did you first search the archives?
Can you put any standard DB string on that EUB?
Pirastro Flexocors would definitely give a warmer tone, but you'll loose sustain and maybe also definition.
Typically, orchestral strings may give you want you want, but it depends how much sustain and clarity you're willing to sacrifice.
 
francois said:
Did you first search the archives?
Can you put any standard DB string on that EUB?
Pirastro Flexocors would definitely give a warmer tone, but you'll loose sustain and maybe also definition.
Typically, orchestral strings may give you want you want, but it depends how much sustain and clarity you're willing to sacrifice.

Deja vu ...huh!! ;)


So I asked you that exact question about 2 years ago!!

And have been very grateful for the advice! :)

So, I have an NS CR5 and you can put any DB strings on these.

I bought the Pirastro Flexocor Orch.s and noticed a huge step up in quality from the stock strings - especially on the G string.

Much less mwah and much more like an an amplified DB - just what I wanted!!
 
Bruce Lindfield said:
Deja vu ...huh!! ;)

So, I have an NS CR5 and you can put any DB strings on these.

I bought the Pirastro Flexocor Orch.s and noticed a huge step up in quality from the stock strings - especially on the G string.

QUOTE]

Bruce,

I think we are after pretty much the same thing. I believe my EU5 can accept the same strings as your CR5. Are you using Flexocor or Flexocor original?

Also, the Thomastik Superflexibles are only available with a B string in 1/2 size. Will these fit? Am I right that the 'standard' size string for NSDBs is 3/4 size?

Thanks!
 
It just says Pirastro Flexocor on the packet - you can use any "normal" strings, (3/4 or 7/8) but I would have thought that half size would be too short?

I must admit that I didn't buy a B string and just bought a 4-string set, as I thought I wouldn't be able to hear the difference and after looking at how expensive 5-string sets are!! :eek:

At the time, I wasn't sure how much difference it would make and it was an expensive risk - now, it's been so successful, I suppose I should get a 'proper' B string as well!! ;)
 
... I put on a set of Superflexibles a couple of days ago and have to say that so far I can't view them as an unqualified improvement. The tone is definitely darker, and the G string sounds less thin and BG like. Like their flatwound BG strings, the windings on these strings are very smooth and comfortable. However, to my ear, the low strings now have too much thud, and more importantly the higher string tension makes the instrument hard to play by a newbie like me. The other pain in the neck thing about using regular DB strings on this EUB is that the way the longer strings mount, you can't get at the batteries without loosening (if you are lucky) or removing at least the A and D strings.

I went with the Superflexibles because I like their BG flatwounds, and since they are so much cheaper than Pirastros, I decided to give them a shot. I think I am going to order a set of Flexocor orchs, and then my set of little used (and uncut) Superflexibles will go to the for sale forum.
 
If you think the Superflexibles lows have too thud, forget about Flexocors!
They're much more thuddy than Superflexibles, IMHO.

Since you seem to seek a clear tone, and very easy to play, I'd advise to look at Corelli strings.
They're very thin, at least in the 370 series (tungsten wound), and available in three gauges. (M, F and TX)
The TX, although specified as Extra Forte, is still very easy to play.
The M (medium) is much too floppy for my taste, but you may like them.

It all depends on what sounds too bright or thud for you, and is quite hard for us to judge.