Chromes are difficult, as their way too bright to start with so why wait?..However if you do wait then after ten or so years they become mid punch canons. I carefully nurse two old sets (there my babies) which after 15 years are getting pretty raggedy at the top end but I only change them onto new basses that come my way and there holding up. With the tone rolled off they emit a thunderous woomph...perfect.
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P-bass + Chromes String/Tone Suggestions?
- Thread starter TDill
- Start date
I seem to be in a cycle of rotating between rounds and flats on my P bass... Rounds on for a while and then the urge to have flatwound old school thump kicks in, so I put flats on. And then I convince myself that the bass sounds great, but would be more usable/"I want the zingyness" with rounds. Then the rounds go dead and I remember how good it sounds with flats, so the cycle repeats. lol I just put rounds back on my P bass last night, actually. 
My P bass has had both Chromes and GHS Precision flats on/off twice, and I also had a brief trial of Labella Deep Talkin' flats on a friend's bass. For the latest set of flats, I was right on the fence between Cobalt flats that @Bald-N-Bassy and @Kipp Harrington mentioned and Dunlop flats. I decided to go with the Dunlops because I read scattered reports that the Cobalts had a slight feel of stickyness due to how they're wound with a slight bit of spacing in the wraps, and have been very happy with the sound/feel. They're on the modern side of flatwound sounds with a bit of zing when they start out, but play them in and they settle down and balance out nicely. They also seem to have less tension than the Chromes and GHS Precisions, which is nice too.
I've got some audio of the Dunlops if it helps make any decisions one way or the other.
Dunlop Flatwounds freshly installed and after 7 months of playing.
@drumvsbass - The TI's are on the list for "someday" because of exactly what you mentioned.
Flats obviously need to be changed much less than rounds (if ever), but holy crapspackle the Dunlops have gone WAAAAYYY up in price since I bought mine. I paid $45ish new, and now they're almost double that for the 5-string set.
For the price they're now asking, I would've at least tried the Cobalts which are still that price, but maybe would have just skipped and went directly to the TIs
5sg.
My P bass has had both Chromes and GHS Precision flats on/off twice, and I also had a brief trial of Labella Deep Talkin' flats on a friend's bass. For the latest set of flats, I was right on the fence between Cobalt flats that @Bald-N-Bassy and @Kipp Harrington mentioned and Dunlop flats. I decided to go with the Dunlops because I read scattered reports that the Cobalts had a slight feel of stickyness due to how they're wound with a slight bit of spacing in the wraps, and have been very happy with the sound/feel. They're on the modern side of flatwound sounds with a bit of zing when they start out, but play them in and they settle down and balance out nicely. They also seem to have less tension than the Chromes and GHS Precisions, which is nice too.
I've got some audio of the Dunlops if it helps make any decisions one way or the other.
Dunlop Flatwounds freshly installed and after 7 months of playing.
@drumvsbass - The TI's are on the list for "someday" because of exactly what you mentioned.
Flats obviously need to be changed much less than rounds (if ever), but holy crapspackle the Dunlops have gone WAAAAYYY up in price since I bought mine. I paid $45ish new, and now they're almost double that for the 5-string set.
For the price they're now asking, I would've at least tried the Cobalts which are still that price, but maybe would have just skipped and went directly to the TIs5sg.
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TI and Labella low tension flats are the winners for me, nice thump and plenty of "character" and I like the way they are easier to bend and fret in general
I have never liked the tone I got from Chromes, although I understand some people love them.
Strings I like include TI jazz flats, TI jazz rounds, GHS Precision flats, and Dunlop stainless steel flats.
If you check the TB Classifieds, you can often score strings on the cheap from someone who tried them but decided to go with a different set. And if you offer your Chromes up for trade you will likely get some offers.
Strings I like include TI jazz flats, TI jazz rounds, GHS Precision flats, and Dunlop stainless steel flats.
If you check the TB Classifieds, you can often score strings on the cheap from someone who tried them but decided to go with a different set. And if you offer your Chromes up for trade you will likely get some offers.
The Labella LT flats are probably my next rest stop on the road to the Thomastik Infelds.
5sg.
Hi all, I'm trying to bond with the D'addario Chromes that are on my Squier Classic Vibe 60's P. To me they sound like they have a lot of "thump" and a little in the highs but not much in between. I got a P-bass because I like the tone I hear in recordings/videos that sounds kind of like a deep male vocal humming (not sure the descriptive word here). "Warm" might be a good description. The chromes to me sound like they have a lot of bass/fundamental but not a lot of "character" in the low mids - A lot of thump but not much warmth. Has any one else had a similar experience with Chromes? I plan on playing direct into the mixer at church, probably with an IR-loader (Nux Mini Studio) in between.
Some options I've considered:
Any recommendations? I'd like to avoid an overly-bright string but keeping an open mind otherwise
- TI Flats: $$$ but it sounds like these are THE flatwound and might have that "character"
- DR Pure Blues: these might add a little tonal versatility but maintain the overall "warm" character
- Changing pickup height: lowering the pickup to reduce the bass relative to other frequencies? (this is free so I'll probably do this anyways)
- Wait out the Chromes: the bass is secondhand so I don't know for sure, but I think these strings are on the newer side so maybe they will break in and even out.
Several years ago someone circulated a string chart here that showed the tonal characteristics of just about every flat wound string ever made. I saved a copy somewhere on my home computer, which I don't have access to now or I'd look for it. But you may want to try a search for it here and see if you can find it.
Speaking from my own personal experience, I've found matching strings with basses is not an exact science and involves some trial and error. The same brand of string (even the same set) may sound wonderful on one bass and dull on another, even the same style of bass, which I think is why you'll see so many different anecdotal stories from TB players about their experiences with strings.
As for Chromes, I would suggest keeping them on for a few months and see how they break in. I have them on several basses including a '64 Precision and a '74 Precision and really like them, they've been on the '64 bass for several years now and the '74 had them when I bought them and they sounded great so I kept them on. As someone said, they have a scooped tendency which I think works well on P-basses. Another '64 Precision I have is wearing GHS Precision Flats, which are also working really well on that bass for the Motown thing, and I've got La Bella LTF flats on a CS Precision that replaced the TI flats it wore for many years, and on that bass I'm liking the La Bellas more than the TIs because they have more bottom and percussive punch.
The lowest tension Colbalt Flats are ALMOST like TIs in feel and tension. I have it on my EBMM Sterling and its a good match.
I've rocked chromes on a number of basses over the years. I have found that at around 6 months of regular use they feel and sound incredible. For the folks saying they have no midrange, I can't disagree more. They're great strings but they do take a while to break in.
Ive just done a recording that has the same p bass with chromes, cobalts flats, and labella on them, ill try and post it so you can hear. the difference is minimal at most
So here it is. Was just alittle beat from a piano loop I sampled a while back when making some lo fi hip hop. I decided it would be a good platform for this comparison. I play a 5 string p bass with an active preamp. Everything is through that except the labella DTF which are on a passive 4 string CV 60s pbass
0-13 Chromes Treble up
14-26 Cobalt Flats
27-53 chromes treble lowered
54-1:06 DTF
Then It repeats
IMO I think the cobalts sound and feel the best. However I was curious on the chromes so when I got my bass setup and some issues fixed recently I decided to have them set it up with chromes. After this I wont change them bc its so similar to me and through a mix that its not worth the hassle. I also like the feeling of chromes better, theyre smoother and I like the little extra tension.
The DTF are a great tone, and im glad I have a bass with those on it as well, but I did not like these in the 5 string version and the tension is rather high for my liking for everyday use.
0-13 Chromes Treble up
14-26 Cobalt Flats
27-53 chromes treble lowered
54-1:06 DTF
Then It repeats
IMO I think the cobalts sound and feel the best. However I was curious on the chromes so when I got my bass setup and some issues fixed recently I decided to have them set it up with chromes. After this I wont change them bc its so similar to me and through a mix that its not worth the hassle. I also like the feeling of chromes better, theyre smoother and I like the little extra tension.
The DTF are a great tone, and im glad I have a bass with those on it as well, but I did not like these in the 5 string version and the tension is rather high for my liking for everyday use.
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A nice comparison, @drewphishes. You can hear the top end zing of the Chromes, even with the treble down. The Cobalts seem a little warmer than the Chromes in the first part, and even with the treble down, I still hear more sizzle with the Chromes. The Cobalts seem fairly similar to the way the Dunlops have mellowed... On the modern end of flats with still just a little clarity in the top, but a little warmer and more presence in the high mids. But they're all sounding good, and in a mix, I don't think anyone would truly be able to tell the difference.
For me it came down to feel... I moved on from the Chromes because they seemed quite a bit higher tension. Every time I played them, my hands and wrists came away noticeably fatigued, so tried the GHS Precision flats and noticed it wasn't as bad. The Dunlops seem even just a bit more loose feeling than those, I've found them pretty comfortable. I eventually want to try the Labella Low Tension flats and Thomastik Infelds, but from what I've read, I wonder if the TIs might be a bit too far on the loose side. Kind of an expensive experiment to tinker with, but I guess I won't every find out unless I pony up for them.
5sg.
For me it came down to feel... I moved on from the Chromes because they seemed quite a bit higher tension. Every time I played them, my hands and wrists came away noticeably fatigued, so tried the GHS Precision flats and noticed it wasn't as bad. The Dunlops seem even just a bit more loose feeling than those, I've found them pretty comfortable. I eventually want to try the Labella Low Tension flats and Thomastik Infelds, but from what I've read, I wonder if the TIs might be a bit too far on the loose side. Kind of an expensive experiment to tinker with, but I guess I won't every find out unless I pony up for them.
5sg.
I think this is a totally subjective topic here, what sounds or feels "right" depends on your personal choice, what style(s) of music, your amps/eq's and ton of this all depends on your technique(s) as well.
I have several Fender Precisions ranging between two vintage 60's, an AVRI and a MIM, plus a PJ style Hohner fretless.
I've experimented with numerous brands and types of strings; from rounds to half-rounds, flats and tapewounds. Im not saying I tried them all, but I tried a lot to see what sounds best on each bass and what I like.
From all this trial and see, my string of choice are D'Addario Chrome flats, but that said Im not opposed to trying others. For example, I have a MIM P that was converted to fretless and I found it sounds great with Chromes, rounds were OK but not as good as the tapewounds I have on it now (and will stay there until further notice).
I dont mind chromes when brand new but found they actually sound better as they age. I used to change my Chrome flats every once in a while, i.e. 6 months but my GO TO #1 love bass, my late 60's P with Dimarzio's has the same strings from the day I purchased it in '19 and I have no intention of taking them off, they sound killer!!
(EDIT) forgot to say -- definitely get that pickup at the correct height, and proper setup. and dont throw them away if you decide to change them, and most of all good luck!!!
I have several Fender Precisions ranging between two vintage 60's, an AVRI and a MIM, plus a PJ style Hohner fretless.
I've experimented with numerous brands and types of strings; from rounds to half-rounds, flats and tapewounds. Im not saying I tried them all, but I tried a lot to see what sounds best on each bass and what I like.
From all this trial and see, my string of choice are D'Addario Chrome flats, but that said Im not opposed to trying others. For example, I have a MIM P that was converted to fretless and I found it sounds great with Chromes, rounds were OK but not as good as the tapewounds I have on it now (and will stay there until further notice).
I dont mind chromes when brand new but found they actually sound better as they age. I used to change my Chrome flats every once in a while, i.e. 6 months but my GO TO #1 love bass, my late 60's P with Dimarzio's has the same strings from the day I purchased it in '19 and I have no intention of taking them off, they sound killer!!
(EDIT) forgot to say -- definitely get that pickup at the correct height, and proper setup. and dont throw them away if you decide to change them, and most of all good luck!!!
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76 Precision , 14 year old 105E Chromes, Diamond Bass Compressor, Ashdown CTM-300
Fantastic tone IMHO.
A few people have mentioned GHS Precision Flats, nice strings, have a set on a Fretless Jazz.
Never had a proper go on TI’s or tried Pyramid
LaBella Flats I like as well but they are different to Chromes for sure. The old Sadowsky Black Flats are nice as well.
Fantastic tone IMHO.
A few people have mentioned GHS Precision Flats, nice strings, have a set on a Fretless Jazz.
Never had a proper go on TI’s or tried Pyramid
LaBella Flats I like as well but they are different to Chromes for sure. The old Sadowsky Black Flats are nice as well.
Ya I like the cobalt flats too and use them on a couple of my basses, bit more modern tone like rounds but with more booty.
I have Chromes on a few basses and like them a lot. They do take time to get there, but you can get them there by using the tone knob for a few months.
I have TI flats on two basses. I love the feel, but I’m mixed on the tone. Their low end seems a little thin, especially after playing Chromes on the same bass. They are excellent for fretless.
Ernie Ball Cobalt flats - these have become my favorite all-around string. They seem to be made for my Sterling Ball Sub series Stingray. Plenty of everything and they are still getting better. I have EBCFs on two basses and will likely have them on others in the future. Go with the lightest gauge unless you play down-tuned a 1/2 step.
I have TI flats on two basses. I love the feel, but I’m mixed on the tone. Their low end seems a little thin, especially after playing Chromes on the same bass. They are excellent for fretless.
Ernie Ball Cobalt flats - these have become my favorite all-around string. They seem to be made for my Sterling Ball Sub series Stingray. Plenty of everything and they are still getting better. I have EBCFs on two basses and will likely have them on others in the future. Go with the lightest gauge unless you play down-tuned a 1/2 step.
D
With flats you really need to try them yourself as the difference in tone/feel/stiffness between different types can be a lot bigger than with roundwounds. Do you want old school/thumpy or more sustain? Bright or warm? Mid focused or fat lows? Stiff or supple feel? High tension or low tension?
With roundwounds it's generally just a matter of more/less brightness when you stay within the same gauges. Apart from that they more or less "feel" the same (there are a couple of exceptions though but they are generally either round core or Dunlop Superbrights
).
Not so with flats. Things like sustain, stiffness, tension and the general "feel" of the strings can vary a LOT.
BTW, are you sure you don't want roundwounds? It sounds to me like a mellow set of pure nickel roundwounds might just work for you and perhaps be more versatile. GHS Balanced Nickels or Pyramid Pure Nickels are great choices for a warm, mellow roundwound tone.
With roundwounds it's generally just a matter of more/less brightness when you stay within the same gauges. Apart from that they more or less "feel" the same (there are a couple of exceptions though but they are generally either round core or Dunlop Superbrights
).Not so with flats. Things like sustain, stiffness, tension and the general "feel" of the strings can vary a LOT.
BTW, are you sure you don't want roundwounds? It sounds to me like a mellow set of pure nickel roundwounds might just work for you and perhaps be more versatile. GHS Balanced Nickels or Pyramid Pure Nickels are great choices for a warm, mellow roundwound tone.
Thank you for all the suggestions! That is an incredible amount of info from everyone! I decided to go ahead and try the TI Jazz Flats. I figure if I don't try them, I'll always wonder; and they get generally glowing reviews on the TB forums. (I also figure I can resell them on here and get most of my investment back if they're not for me). I'll be sure to update with my impression once I get them on the bass. Thanks!
yeah I found Chromes to be very weak in the mids, a lot of bass, a fair bit of treble, no mids at allHi all, I'm trying to bond with the D'addario Chromes that are on my Squier Classic Vibe 60's P. To me they sound like they have a lot of "thump" and a little in the highs but not much in between. I got a P-bass because I like the tone I hear in recordings/videos that sounds kind of like a deep male vocal humming (not sure the descriptive word here). "Warm" might be a good description. The chromes to me sound like they have a lot of bass/fundamental but not a lot of "character" in the low mids - A lot of thump but not much warmth. Has any one else had a similar experience with Chromes? I plan on playing direct into the mixer at church, probably with an IR-loader (Nux Mini Studio) in between.
Some options I've considered:
Any recommendations? I'd like to avoid an overly-bright string but keeping an open mind otherwise
- TI Flats: $$$ but it sounds like these are THE flatwound and might have that "character"
- DR Pure Blues: these might add a little tonal versatility but maintain the overall "warm" character
- Changing pickup height: lowering the pickup to reduce the bass relative to other frequencies? (this is free so I'll probably do this anyways)
- Wait out the Chromes: the bass is secondhand so I don't know for sure, but I think these strings are on the newer side so maybe they will break in and even out.
Thank you everyone for your comments and suggestions!
An update now that I received the TIs and set up my bass with them:
An update now that I received the TIs and set up my bass with them:
- Tension: Comparing both (chromes vs TIs) strings off the bass, I could tell the TIs had lower tension. After putting the new strings on my bass, I had to loosen the truss rod quite a bit (and actually need to go back and do it again) to account for the lower tension.
- Feel: the TIs are a little bit more pliable than the Chromes, but certainly not "floppy" as I have heard them described. The TIs are more "grippy" but I've heard the get less so as they age.
- Tone: Compared to the Chromes, the TIs have what I would describe as a low-cut in the sound, which effectively balances out and allows more mids/highs to come through. This to me makes the tone knob on the bass much more useable and I have a larger range of timbres to work with. Honestly I wish there was a little more bass, but these are brand new strings so I think they'll mellow out as they age. Before putting on the TIs, I did play around with pickup height using the Chromes and could get "better" tone by lowering the pickups a lot, but never all the way there. Still not 100% "there" with the TIs but much much closer.
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