Same Tension, different feel???

[cozmic]

Hi folks,

I have a nice problem. I have 2 sets of new strings. Ernie Ball Slinky and DA XL170, both 5 string sets, both nickel, both hexycore and both have the same diameter and tension.

-> D'Addario

G 0.045 42.8
D 0.065 51.3
A 0.080 32.9
E 0.100 36.5
B 0.130 34.5

-> EB
0,045 42,8
0,065 51,3
0,080 32,9
0,100 36,5
0,130 34,5

They feel very different, as the EBs are a bit stiffer and the XLs are softer. They sound different, as the EBs are voiced a little darker and the XLs have more mid power nicely fitting my Sandberg Jazz.

Now, the E string from the XL set is buzzing on the first fret. This doesn´t happen with the EBs E string. And it´s only the e string.

String height is adjusted to same distance on 22nd fret, the bass features a 0-fret.

What can I do? Releasing the neck a little doesn´t normally help with fret buzz on the first frets? Raise the string height? I´d have to raise it a lot I guess, to relieve the buzz.

I´m stuck...never had this problem before, it´s either all stings buzz or none..

 

[JLS]

Yes, it does, if you mean loosening the trussrod slightly.

 

[ixlramp]

I have 2 sets of new strings. Ernie Ball Slinky and DA XL170, both 5 string sets, both nickel, both hexycore and both have the same diameter and tension.

-> D'Addario

G 0.045 42.8
D 0.065 51.3
A 0.080 32.9
E 0.100 36.5
B 0.130 34.5

-> EB
0,045 42,8
0,065 51,3
0,080 32,9
0,100 36,5
0,130 34,5

There's actually an error in the tensions given for the EXL170-5 set: DAddarioFretted Strings » Bass Strings » XL Nickel Round Wound » EXL170-5 Long Scale 5-String 45-130

Compare with the equivalent 4 string set EXL170: DAddarioFretted Strings » Bass Strings » XL Nickel Round Wound » EXL170 Long Scale 45-100

EXL170
XLB045 G 0.045 42.8
XLB065 D 0.065 51.3
XLB080 A 0.080 42.0
XLB100 E 0.100 36.5

The .080 should be 42.0 pounds of tension.

I see that you've used the published D'Addario tensions for the EB's. Strings of the same gauge in a different brand will probably have slightly different tension due to different construction and materials. How different? It's hard to say as tension information is rarely published, but I have seen a tension difference of up to 5% for the same gauge of D'Addario and Circle K. It is actually string mass, not gauge, that determines tension. 2 strings of the same gauge can have slightly different masses.

This also explains the difference in feel and sound, I find D'Addario XLs and ProSteels to be bright and very flexible.#

You could try loosening the truss very slightly (1/12th turn) and then lowering the saddles a little. Buzz close to the nut indicates a neck that is too flat or back-bowed.

 

[cozmic]

Actually EB send me the tension values on request. I can send you the xls if you like...

The EB staff is very friendly and helpful.

Thanx EB!!!

The D´Addario are copy and paste traight from their website... :/
A look on a package in my cupboard says it should be 42.0 so you are correct.

There´s also an error in the super slinky set in the EB xls...

 

[ixlramp]

Hmmm interesting ... sounds like EB just copied D'Addario's tension data?
I would like to see the xls, I'll send you a PM with my email, cheers man!

 

[ixlramp]

Thanks cozmic for sending the xls.

The Ernie Ball tension chart exactly copies the tension values of the D'Addario XL nickel sets of matching gauges, as published on the D'Addario website. Therefore the error of the .080 tension stated in the 5 string set is copied, with the correct .080 tension stated in the 4 string set copied too.

Exceptions:
1. The 'Hybrid Slinky' set 45 65 85 105 has tension values not matching the 45 65 and 85 105 present in the other Slinky sets. No idea where they got the tension values from.
2. The 'Extra Slinky' set 40 60 70 95 has tension values identical to the 40 60 75 95 strings present in the 5 string 'Super Slinky' set. These values being copied from the D'Addario 40 60 75 95 set.

 

[cozmic]

Soooo let´s ask the question if the EBs are actually XL Strings? I know a few years earlier DA made the slinkys and EB just sold them under their brand.