Thunderbird - E string sounds dull

[Karlos69]

Have not owned this bass very long. Is is an Epi Thunderbird classic Pro IV with Gibson Humbuckers.

I have had it set up and frets levelled. I had Rotosound swing bass strings fitted and the E string (105) sounds dull in comparison - also a lot heavier than the other strings.

I was wondering if it might be:

Bridge - needs a hipshot?
Strings - poss try d'addarrio pro steels 100 gauge.
Pickup height?

Anyone else had this experience and can you offer any advice, cheers.

 

[solderjunkie]

It might be twisted.

Loosen tension at the E tuner enough to un-seat the ball end from the bridge, not enough to pull it off but enough where the string can un-twist.

It could also be a dud string.

 

[Meatrus]

Is it dull acoustically when not plugged in to an amp? If yes, then it will probably be a bad string...it happens. If when plugged in its probably pickup height.

 

[TBird1958]

Get rid of the RotoSound strings!
DR Stainless 45-105 work great on Thunderbirds, I gave up on Roto's long ago for the exact problem you're having.

 

[1stnamebassist]

Yes rotos have been known to produce an occasional dead string. I haven't used them for it seems like forever either. Right now i'm using Elixers and they seem to sound pretty good. I'm curious, has anyone ever tried flats on their T-birds? I know it sounds crazy, but i'll bet they would sound decent!

 

[lfbassguy]

I have the D'addario Stainless steel strings on my Gibson T-bird, and they sound great.