Set-up hanges when switching to flat wounds?

[Jocur]

I finally got a new bass and want to switch my old Carvin to flatwounds (La Bella 760fs-TB). Is there anything I need to change on my set-up to get the best out of the flatwounds, either on a Carvin or just a bass in general? Thank you!

 

[michael_t]

I finally got a new bass and want to switch my old Carvin to flatwounds (La Bella 760fs-TB). Is there anything I need to change on my set-up to get the best out of the flatwounds, either on a Carvin or just a bass in general? Thank you!

Setup modifications going from one set of strings to another is something that needs to be done AFTER the change. Instead of trying to guess ahead of time, go ahead and make the change and make the necessary adjustments for optimal playability, ie amount of neck relief (truss rod tweak), action (saddle height) and intonation (saddle positioning).

 

[Aloe]

Adjust your action as needed. Then fine-tune pickups’ height. It’s just like any other string swap.

You also might like a foam mute, depending on your tone goals.

 

[Goatrope]

The Flatwoods I've used, in comparison to my roundwounds, were of a considerably higher tension. So truss rod adjustment was a requirement for me. And, as with any change to a different type or brand, I'll always re-check the intonation.

So, in short, like @michael_t wrote, make the change, and do whatever required.

 

[Prodigus Filius]

If the total tension of the new set is more than the TT of the replaced set, you may have to tighten the truss rod after fitment. If the TT of the new set is less, you may have to loosen the truss rod. If the gauges are pretty much the same, you may have no further work to do

 

[Jocur]

Thanks everybody!

 

[micguy]

Most folks playing flatwounds are trying to avoid clank, some of us who play rounds want to have that sound available. My guess is you'll want a bit more relief and a little higher action with flats. Which also means you'll probably have to tweak intonation.

 

[Zooberwerx]

When changing string types, it’s always good idea to back-off your saddles (towards the ball end anchor), install strings / adust relief per protocol, and advance the saddles forward as you’re dialing-in the intonation.

Riis

 

[Jocur]

Great advice! Thanks.