• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Strings for Fretless 6

bigjames

bigjames

Player of Smooth Lines
Jan 25, 2005
1,235
1,681
50
Metro Vancouver, Canada
www.imdb.com
#1
I am thinking of picking up some DR Sunbeams for my fretless 6 string. I am thinking the set with the .125, .105, .085, .065, .045, .030.

I currently used D'addario Nickelwound with a heavier B and lighter E and A (.100 and .080). They are VERY soft and start to lose it when you really start to dig.

I am thinking the Sunbeams would feel more balanced and give a little more substance on the E and A strings. Anyone using Sunbeams on a fretless that can comment?
 
#2
Sun Beams sound great on fretless, but these days I'm really digging DR Black Beauties on my fretless. They are the coated stainless steel strings from DR, so they have the punch and growl of stainless without the worry about the strings digging up your fingerboard.
 
#3
I used Sunbeams for many years and was very happy with them. I believe I went .028, .040, .060, .080, .100, .120/125 (went back and forth on the B). I was really getting into the midrangey sitarish tone for a while there, and was simply very careful not to hit the lower strings too hard.

Almost ANYTHING is going to give you more substance than D'Addario XLs IMHO. I bet you'll be very happy with the Sunbeams, and if you're sold on that gauge, you might think about going just a tad higher with the B (maybe .128).
 
#5
I ordered a set of DR Black Beauties... .030-.125. I cannot wait to string them up on my fretless 6. I have been playing nothing but the D'Addario XLs for YEARS. I am really excited to hear how my fretless sounds with some quality stainless steel strings instead of the nickels. Should get some nice growl.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back