Report: Balanced set of Chrome flatwounds

[michael_t]

So... I'm running 5-Str Medium DR Sunbeam Nickel rounds on the bass I have in mind - .045 .065 .085 .105 .125
Do I stick with same/similar gauge for flats?

Generally speaking, flats are naturally stiffer than rounds due to their construction (flat ribbon vs. round wire).
DR Sunbeams are more flexible than most rounds due to the round core.

So, it would be a good idea to go down in size when you're switching from the Sunbeams to a set of flats.

 

[s0c9]

So, it would be a good idea to go down in size when you're switching from the Sunbeams to a set of flats.

Down??? as in smaller gauge??
Been looking at LaBella Deep Talkin's and they only have 2 sets smaller, but 128 is the lowest available for low-B.

Light: .043 .060 .082 .104 .128T
Extra Light: .039 .056 .077 .096 .128T

I have a set of Ken Smith Rockmaster Medium lights (.045 .065 .080 .100 .125) on my other bass, and they are pretty darn light..

 

[michael_t]

Down??? as in smaller gauge??

That's correct.

 

[s0c9]

That's correct.

Ok.. thanks for the clarification... will have to see what's out there..

 

[michael_t]

Ok.. thanks for the clarification... will have to see what's out there..

Just as an example of what I'm talking about...

I used to use the D'Addario EXL165 Nickel Rounds (45-65-85-105), so after reading about the stiffer nature of flats, I decided to try the D'A Chromes flats 40-60-80-100. This worked out okay as the 45-105 set in the Chromes would have been a little too tense for my taste.

 

[michael_t]

Light: .043 .060 .082 .104 .128T
Extra Light: .039 .056 .077 .096 .128T

If you would like a playing feel of the Sunbeams, maybe try the Extra Light set.

Or, try what is recommended by the OP - D'A Chromes custom set 40-55-75-95-132:

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