Double Bass Used double bass strings

[Andy Mopley]

Is it worth buying them, when on limited budget? If so, what would be considered a "reasonable" age for the strings to still be considered a reasonable buy? I am thinking that this option may be good in case you simply want to try a different set of strings.

Thanks for reading!

 

[Eric Hochberg]

Yes, go for it. Steel strings last longer than those with non steel cores. I buy used strings often, usually under 6 months use for steel and a month or two for the others. This is a great way to try strings at low prices. Then, if you like them, you can buy a new set when necessary. If you don't, you can resell them here.

 

[Sam Dingle]

I have bought 1 new set of strings which were Evah weichs. Ironically my bass and I didn't like them so I sold them and bought a one day old set of the orchestra gauge and they were great. As said above its a good way to try strings that you are curious about. I usually just make sure they aren't broken, cut or the windings aren't broken. I think the rule with used spirocores though is… 10 years?

 

[KUNGfuSHERIFF]

I have owned and tried, quite literally, hundreds of sets of strings in the few years I've been playing. Maybe two or three of those sets were bought new. Limited budget describes me exactly.

The relative value and longevity of those sets depend on what they are, their age, how they have been maintained and how many times they have been on and off basses.

My EUB wears a full set of Spirocores that are probably 15 years old and still going strong. My doublebass has newish, secondhand Spiros on the bottom and Red-O-Ray guts on top that are at least 50 years old and still kicking @$$.

 

[Andy Mopley]

Thanks all - my (original) strings - make unknown, I am first owner - are 5 years old, and at a recent trip to a luthier - where he slightly adjusted and replaced a sound post - he suggested that a new set of strings may be in order. This advice, to me, in some ways, it is like taking the car to the mechanic where he tells you what was replaced (in the engine) and I just know I can't argue with him...However, if the Sheriff is still using strings that are at least 50 years old, who am I to disobey the law?

This said, I'll keep an eye on the classifieds, if something shows up in $100 mark, I may invest accordingly.

Thanks again

 

[KUNGfuSHERIFF]

I picked up a few sets in anticipation of buying a second bass, which did not happen. What kind of playing do you do?

 

[Eric Hochberg]

It's a misconception to think that Spirocores will definitely last into double digits. It all depends on how much use they have gotten, among other things. IME, they start playing false in 3-4 years. That's with lots of playing time.

 

[Sam Dingle]

That's true from what I've seen although my jazz teacher has had his E and A on for 5 years and they sound good, and my classical teacher has had his extended E and A on for 10 years before Changing them.