Snapped a string...not even two months old

Sounds like a defective core to me, not necessarily from the playing.

 

My first set of Ernie ball strings had the E string snap as I was tuning it up to the E. This stuff does happen every now and then

 

If it were your technique it would have snapped where you pluck.

 

Bass strings shouldn't break, let alone by just slapping and stuff.

What strings broke? If it was the A or D, you can leave the other strings on perfectly well. If you want to be sure, you might just take the other one of the two forementioned off.

Given the fact that the tension on all strings is practically equal, the tensioned will be balanced on both sides of the neck, so that it doesn't warp.

 

I've had similar experiences with DR and GHS strings in the past (never used Ernie Ball before.) It usually is a defective string core. Other symptoms of a wonky string include tuning difficulties, or the string breaking before it reaches proper tension. I've emailed the string manufacturer and, depending on the brand, they'll send you a replacement string or an entire set. They know that these things happen.

The other possibility is that there is a burr on your fret that is causing wear on the string, causing it to snap. I had that issue with an old P-Bass where I kept snapping the E string at the 4th fret. After the second string snapped there in less than a month, I realized that the problem lie with the bass itself.

 

Actually most bass strings do not have balanced tension. I believe that Circle K is one of the few brands that actually sell balanced tension sets.

 

Yes, and some strings have flaws. I've broken strings putting them on, after tuning them up, after 1-2-3-etc. gigs, and my Fender 9050CL flats are over 2 years old and also still going strong.

 

This kind of thing happens with all string brands. It's just one of those things where there's that unlucky chance that you'll get a bad one. That's why it's always good to have a spare pack with you at a gig or rehearsal. I've had the same Super Slinkys on one of my basses for months now and I slap a lot. No problems. But this has happened to me with GHS Boomers, D'Addario XL, Pyramid (this was actually a known flaw), Sadowsky Black Label, La Bella Deep Talkin', and even TI flats.

 

Most companies will send you a replacement or even a whole new pack. Good luck!

 

No, if anything try a round core string if you like harmonics.

 

If you're looking for that kind of thing, you might want to check out Fodera.