/ Register

Re-using strings: through-body -> through-bridge

Discussion in 'Strings [BG]' started by Geddy Claypool, Jun 21, 2019.

  1. Jun 21, 2019 #1
    Geddy Claypool

    Geddy Claypool SX J-75/Traben Neo 4 -> SVT-CL/SVT-810E

    Aug 3, 2008
    Maryland
    Howdy! A quick question regarding re-using strings.

    A couple of weeks ago, I purchased a set of Chromes for my new Lakland DJ5 to try out, and while I like the sound I think I want to go with brighter rounds for this bass and this band. Throwing something like Hi-Beams on the Lakland is straightforward enough, but having just shelled out $45 for the Chromes I'd love to re-use them. I have an SX Jazz lying around that I would love to put the E-G Chromes on.

    Problem is, the Lakland is strung through the body while the SX is just through bridge. I've repeatedly seen around here that swapping through-body strings to through-bridge is a no-no, but why? I assume because of the extra bend the strings might be more likely to break, but are there any other practical concerns?

    Thanks!
     
  2. Jun 21, 2019 #2
    joel the bass player

    joel the bass player Supporting Member

    Nov 27, 2000
    Omaha, NE
    There will be an extra kink towards the headstock after the strings pass over the saddles. It might cause an issue or might not, but at this point you have nothing to lose if they are for sure not what you want on the 5 string.

    Personally I haven't noticed enough of a reason to make me string through the body anymore, and luckily the Lakland bridges can do both. Both my 55-02s and my MIA P are top loaded through the bridge now. I don't really do the string swap game though, nor do I remove to clean strings. Once they are done they are done, and I kind of like strings broken in anyhow, so I don't always restring that often.
     
    Geddy Claypool likes this.
  3. Jun 21, 2019 #3
    Geddy Claypool

    Geddy Claypool SX J-75/Traben Neo 4 -> SVT-CL/SVT-810E

    Aug 3, 2008
    Maryland
    Thanks for the input. I didn't consider the headstock kink, but that makes sense.

    Yeah, I'm not much of a string swapper either, but I figured it was better than tossing out basically new Chromes (even though I'm sure they get better as they get older, but you know what I mean).
     
  4. Jun 21, 2019 #4
    2saddleslab

    2saddleslab Supporting Member

    May 30, 2003
    Kentucky
    You'd think there would be concerns but I've done it countless times and always amazed that it didn't make a difference. Typically I've done this w/ TI flats, which might be more forgiving that other brands.
     
    Geddy Claypool likes this.