Mics:
I would imagine there wont be much difference with similar LDC mics live, but you may find one 'rejects feedback' better than another. Trying a SDC might be better for feedback rejection, but you might lose 'some fullness' and capture more mids—which might help or hinder depending on setup and FOH. Try to include HPF/LPFs to help eliminate sub-freq and top-end noise [70~100hz to 5~8khz]
Welcome to the ABG string rabbit hole:
YEs exactly. stiffer strings will act like a mute and
dampen the top vibrations. So 'action and setup' preferences/ideals must be considered along the way.
Something to consider,
IF you're playing small combo with "tune-able instruments", theres no LAW that says you have to tune to 440. If your combo is say ABG, vocal, and violin; tune to a pitch that works for the instrument(s). (obviously a group decision)
The main issue with EB string sets on ABG is not that the strings might damage the bass, but that their tension is above a bass' resonant "sweetspot". Each bass will be different. Heres some links with a few different Flat sets on the same bass:
Here are several clips demo-ing some different flats on the Balor. The idea around these demos is to hear each set unprocessed with no plugins, dry signal or acoustic only in order to compare each set. While not perfectly scientific, it's a general way of comparing sets. Headphones recommend...
I'm demo-ing a set of the
Jens Schoenitz “
polished" silver on nylon core strings. I found out about these strings while searching for a bass (and/or Luthier for a custom build). I was really excited about Jens’
Mummel and
Zett basses, then happy to learn that he has also developed his own strings for his instruments. He's worked with both the Lenzner and Pyramid companies to make his custom sets. *One thing to point out; these Schoenitz strings sets aren't a high volume production set of strings. They are designed primarily for
his builds and as replacement...
Thanks thisheregiraffe
It was suggested to me, "to add a similar excerpt as the
Aquilastrings Round Spirals I posted earlier." So adding it now—and I agree, it presents the idea a little better
I really like the intonation of this set, and especially the LowB above the 12th fret.
My take couldve been better, but it shows the LowB is still a valuable addition in the upper register.
Installation
G .037” 0.94mm
D .054” 1.34mm
A .076” 1.93mm
E .091” 2.32mm *silks delicate/ratty
B .108” 2.74mm *silks delicate/ratty
Ball to Silk length 36±”
The wraps are nice smooth, but the B,E silks have much to be desired—they're a bit ratty out of the package. The higher string wraps however were very nice. I definitely needed to adjust my setup with more action for the G string, along with some intonation adjustments.
First Impressions
I did not like the initial unfocused floppy B, and the super light G. I’ll see how the B...
First Impressions:
G 0.047" or 1.19mm
D 0.068" or 1.73mm broke 1" from tuner
A 0.086" or 2.19mm
E 0.109" or 2.76mm
B 0.128" or 3.25mm
The Labella 760 Gold flats are very similar (in feel) to the classic TIJF, though they're a touch stiffer, but a bit brighter (Im guessing to the 80/20 mix). I like it! There is a nice bell-like quality to them thats not overbearing. They play well as a 'bottom end' playing set, but I can't get any agility or expression out of them. Man I wish they'd make a 750 GFS set! I think they'd be a better fit for chordal and solo...
Also core, wrap material, and wrap type play a big role. RW will have more mids and top end,
AND the corpus will exaggerate that top end and string noise
AND body noise on stage. Flats will have less noise, but
may also choke the top. (for example, 'lighter' flat sets like LaB 750s can open up the top and still tune to 440)
The 'quick answer' from many is "use dark flats", but that doesn't
necessarily allow a specific bass to fully resonant, chokes the top, or decreases sustain which may
or may not be your goal. Heres trying
3 different versions of the same string, as well as downtuned set to find the best feel;
often Eb or D tuning if using EB sets on ABG for me.
Without knowing what your looking for in a string... if you're looking for a "good all around ABG string" that sounds/feels good, and wont break the bank,
GHS PBP strings are good place to start and easy to get almost everywhere (here in US). IMO they (GHS) are better sounding and feeling thanABG strings from Elixirs, Dadd, EBs etc bronze/phospherous sets. YMMV
If you're interested in something different than the average acoustic string, any of the "Copper variants"of strings (Aquila Spiral Flats, Labella Copper-White) sound/feel great IME...
So lots of moving parts to get to a sound and
playing feel you want within the:
"Short/thick/Upright-type sound" <—> "Brighter/Bell-like/guitar-type sound"
List of variables to consider (dark<—>bright): *my preference, YMMV
Wrap type (ie Flats, Pressurewound, Sanded, Rounds)
Core (Hex, Round, Nylon, Silk, Braided)
Wrap material (Tape, Nickel, Gold, Copper, BronzePhos, SS)
Set Tension (Heavy, Light)
