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Double Bass Superflexible Solos Tuned Down - String Tension

flyingmarcel

flyingmarcel

Aug 9, 2003
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Buffalo, NY
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#1
Hello,

Can someone give me an idea of the tension of these strings when tuned down? I currently am using the Spiro Weichs and am looking for something similar in tension - Would these be more or less?

Based on the string tension chart listed, It seems the Superflexibles are Relatively high in tension (comparable to Spiro Mediums), which is more that I would want, but I thought solos might be a good compromise.

Also, from any users of this set up, are these strings pretty floppy at standard tuning? Can bringing the string height up a bit improve on this problem?

Thanks,

fm
 
#2
Well, I have no experience with the solo strings but regular "orchestra" gauge superflexibles are indeed rather high tension, sure higher than Spyro Meds, especially E string, almost as stiff as Spyro Stark. I love Superflex G and D after 2 months of break-in period (hated them when they were new)
 
#5
Hi Francois,

Thanks for the reply. I'm wondering if you could talk a little about the differences between the solo spiros tuned down and the spiro weichs, which I am currently using. Are the solos (tuned down) just a lower tension version of the Spiro Mediums ie. Thicker gauge string, but low tension like the Weichs?

My main reason for going with the Superflexibles would be that I have used them previously and really liked their sonic qualities, but don't want to inflict their high tension on my bass. I like the Weichs very much as well (on the bass for over 2 years), but just feel it might be time for a change.....

Thanks,

fm
 
#6
francois said:
You'd better get solo Spiros than solo Superflexs, IMHO.
They have a much better tone, and you'll likely get less rattles on the FB.
Click to expand...

Aren't the Ropecore Superflexibles tighter feeling than the Spirocores? I seem to recall in the old days that was the case. I have only tried one of my Basses with the SF's rescntly and they had quite the tension. I had Red's on that same Bass several years ago and these seemed tighter. All things being equal I would assume the same differences with the Solo gauges. Plus, the SF's bow better and sound deeper with more fundamental. The Spiros have more Buzz/sustain but not much music in that fizzle to my ear.
 
#7
I had Spirocore solos tuned down on my bass a few years ago and really liked them. I tried weiches on the E and A when I wanted a bit more tension and really didn't like the change sonically. The solos out of the pack had a really nice tone and it only got better as I went. I had a good arco experience with them too, sat up that way.

They were somewhat lower tension than the Weiches seemed to be, but there was also a difference is feel and sound that I can't quite put my fingers on.

You might think about Pirastro Jazzers if you can't get comfortable with the idea of tuning solos down.

-tk
 
#9
i did use spiros solo and they had a little bit more tension than the superflexibles solo. the superflexibles are the "loosest" strings i tried besides guts and supernils! at least the loosest steels i ever played and i tried a lot of different strings !



you can hear a studio recording with superflexibles solo
recorded with a mic and a little bit of mag pu signal

Link Removed

theres also SLAP bass in following songs:

Let's Go California
and God's Grace (please scroll down )
 
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