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Two String Questions - Help A N00b Out!

PipeRain

PipeRain

Operator Of Pointy Basses
Inactive
Dec 4, 2012
195
34
#1
I am looking at various strings and can't seem to get a couple questions sorted out in my head, so I'm turning to the experts.

1) How does core diameter as a percentage of overall string diameter effect the string as far as tone and feel go?

2) What difference does a hexagonal core versus round core make (All else being equal) in a string?

Thanks for your input, and yes I speak fluent snark so have at it!
 
#2
PipeRain said:
I am looking at various strings and can't seem to get a couple questions sorted out in my head, so I'm turning to the experts.

1) How does core diameter as a percentage of overall string diameter effect the string as far as tone and feel go?

2) What difference does a hexagonal core versus round core make (All else being equal) in a string?

Thanks for your input, and yes I speak fluent snark so have at it!
Click to expand...

Less core/smaller core generally means a more flexible string. It's said that a larger core means more fundamental----But my favorite Stainless strings right now are Dean Markley Helix HD strings (which have a smaller hex core) and are some of the warmest, deepest speaking steels I've used.

generally speaking, hex core strings will be less flexible, but also sound a bit fuller.
 
#3
Thanks Toptube!

I grabbed a set of Helix Nickel plates for one of my basses, looking for a warmer tone than the usual GHS Contact Cores I dearly love, but without losing the clarity and definition. At first I was sorta disappointed but now, six months later, I am sorta warming up to them. This is rather strange for me since I rarely let a set of strings go 90 days without changing.

Again, thank you for the answers.
 
#4
In general, a round core string will sound much fuller and be more flexible because it vibrates easier/more than a hex core string. Again, that's in general.

I pretty much use nothing but round core strings from Fodera and DR anymore. I just love the feel. It's hard to explain. When pulling on a hex core string it just feels like it stops hard at it's limit while a round core has some flex and bounce. If that makes any sense :)
 
#7
PipeRain said:
Thanks Toptube!

I grabbed a set of Helix Nickel plates for one of my basses, looking for a warmer tone than the usual GHS Contact Cores I dearly love, but without losing the clarity and definition. At first I was sorta disappointed but now, six months later, I am sorta warming up to them. This is rather strange for me since I rarely let a set of strings go 90 days without changing.

Again, thank you for the answers.
Click to expand...

I haven't used the Nickel plated Helix strings. Sounds like maybe you like "dead" strings!
 

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