Stainless strings on an ABG ?

[Cullen G]

I just received a really nice ABG, with some PB strings on it. I love the way it projects with these round wound strings, but it "clacks" a bit much for my tastes. I read where stainless strings clack less, while retaining an aggressive tone. Any thoughts or suggestions before I order? Thank you

 

[Aidil]

Phosphor bronze or 80/20 bronze strings clack more cause they could amplify themselves more than other kinds of strings on an unplugged ABG. Of course, you can change them with stainless steel or any other kinds of strings, but you would lose the unplugged volume. This wouldn't be a matter if you use your ABG plugged-in to an amplifier more.

But... I don't think stainless steel strings are less clacky. I've never used them on ABG, but I've been using them on my electric bass since the 80s. In my ears, they clack more, although compared with nickel (plated steel) strings.

I've actually gigged with my ABG (strung with 80/20 bronze strings) in numerous times. What I do to tame down the clacks (more so cause it's plugged-in to an amplifier) is that I would turn down the treble on the ABG's built-in preamp. They are still bright enough with the treble all the way down, but the clacks are way less pronounced.

 

[Cullen G]

Thanks for the low down on this. I will stick with PB on my ABG. I hear DR makes some which are called "RARE" … Sounds like a good place to start !

 

[MD]

If you want to lose the clack, grab some tapes.

 

[Aidil]

Thanks for the low down on this. I will stick with PB on my ABG. I hear DR makes some which are called "RARE" … Sounds like a good place to start !

yeah, lots of "bronze" strings to try. So far, I've used EXP Coated Phosphor Bronze from D'Addario which came with my ABG and Elixir 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Bass with Nanoweb Coating which I like more than stocks cause the Nanoweb coating feels sleekier on fingers than the EXP. The finger squeak sounds lesser too with the Nanoweb.

DR Rare aren't coated but they are unique being round core strings (as opposed to hex core inside the others). I might try them one day. But for the next one replacing the Elixir, I'm eyeing on GHS Pressurewound Bronze. I used to have the regular (nickel-iron alloy) Pressurewound on one of my electrics for and I quite like them. They are also easy on the fingertips and less squeaky when we slide our fingers on them.