Old school flats with distinct E string notes?

[morebass!]

I've had ten-year-old Chromes that had more distinct E string notes than one-month-old Precision Flats.

Yes. Broken-in Chromes are the best of both worlds. Distinct pitch and thump. However it takes a couple years to get there.

The La Bella DTFs might do it. The A-G are pretty bright though. Stay away from the Jamerson gauge, which is all mud. The next gauge down (.105) is fine.

 

[dougjwray]

Yes. Broken-in Chromes are the best of both worlds. Distinct pitch and thump. However it takes a couple years to get there.

The La Bella DTFs might do it. The A-G are pretty bright though. Stay away from the Jamerson gauge, which is all mud. The next gauge down (.105) is fine.

Thanks. I think I might try the La Bellas next (as you suggest) and then compare them to DR Legends. I love various roundwound DRs (Pure Blues, Sunbeams, Fat Beams) but have never tried their flats.

 

[strost]

I know this is an oldish thread but wanted to thank it for saving my sanity.

I just got a Mustang JMJ and it arrived with Chromes (which normally I don't love but actually sounded great on the Mustang!)

I got some La Bella 760F-MUS cuz everyone said how great they are (I do have Le Bellas on other basses - and I do love them). But as soon as I put them on, I was like, "what happened to the e-string?". I love the ADG but the E sounds a lot different. I even restrung it thinking maybe it got twisted.

It's good to know that's normal. I am hoping they will blend together a bit better as they break in. If not, might give the Chromes another try.

I have La Bellas on a couple of G&Ls with MFDs. I like the way they mellow out the hot MFDs - love them on my Fretless Kiloton. I have Fenders on my P bass - I find them to be really versatile - best for when I was in a cover band - they have nice clarity and warmth when needed and can sound pretty angry/punky if you dig in. Kindof wish the initial owner had left those on the Mustang. I also have GHS Precisions on my 1977 fretless Precision - those are just nice and pillowy.