Double Bass Solo String Question

[bbginger]

I have never used or had solo strings before, but it looks like I am going to need some soon. I have read a lot on here about different kinds, but I'm still not sure of what I want. Any advice as to what is good for my first set?

Also, I know someone who had put solo strings on her bass and just tuned them down for orchestra. Is this ok for the bass/strings? Or is it not suggested?

 

[Ryanpet42]

First off, what kind of strings do you use now and what kind of sound are you going for?

 

[Eric Hochberg]

Also, I know someone who had put solo strings on her bass and just tuned them down for orchestra. Is this ok for the bass/strings? Or is it not suggested?

This is fine.

 

[bbginger]

Right now I have Heliocores, not the best I know but it's what I could get at the time...
I am really just looking for a basic set to start, no specific sound in mind. Just a good set that can last me a few years.

 

[Ryanpet42]

Probably the Helicore solos would do well for a start. I have a friend who switches between solo and orchestral tuning and those hold up well for both.