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Double Bass Velvet strings megathread part II

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#223
I've been piecing together responses from different threads but thought I'd just cut to the chase. I'm using Spiro Mediums now and wondering if I'll get more volume from the Velvets. I realize there are other factors which contribute to volume to consider but I wanted to get other's experiences when switching to Velvets re: volume. I'd also like to know what string you switched from and which flavor of Velvet you are using now.
 
#224
Velvets are strange strings. My experience was that I switched to Animas from Spiro mittels, and I couldn't really tell what was going on volume-wise. Eventually, after the bass settled in with the lower tension, I realized I was producing much more "usable" volume (maybe as opposed to "apparent from behind the bass" volume) and could comfortably play without an amp in many more situations than I could with the Spiros. When I took the Animas off and put the Spiros back on after about eight months, I and everyone I played with noticed a change--I perceived it as a drastic drop-off in volume/presence, and the bandmates I asked perceived it as "more amplifier in the sound" (which I think means I was having to turn up the amp more).

So a short answer would be that I think there's more air being moved by Velvets than by Spirocores (and IME Garbos are louder than Animas, but I know not everyone has had the same experience), but I know that basses respond differently and that the ear perceives certain things differently which makes it a tough question to answer.
 
#225
+1 with jeremy, I used to use a spiro e+a + golden spiral d-g strings for years until they stopped making golden spirals. When I put the velvets on for the first time 7-8 years ago the volume change was quite different so was the position of my tail piece. The velvet strings really let my top plate of my bass resonate more that before. I really love the velvets used garbos for years and just have started using animas after a quick(really quick) pirastro obligato/oliv experiment. I've had the same comment from people when I switched strings they thought my hands or arms were hurting because I wasn't heard as well on unamped gigs which is around 75% of them. I did have one problem recently with an Anima D string but I think Velvet is dealing with the problem as I type this. They are a great company which I do not endorse but will always tell people how good their strings are
 
#226
My thinking about Velvet strings goes this way. When a bass has lower tension stings installed, it allows the top to vibrate more freely. This makes sense to me as a reason for the increased volume.

I have no sceintific data to back this up, but I have played Spirocores, Ropecores, Helicores (pizz, hybrid and orchestral) on this same bass and it responds better to Velvets than any of these. Now, mind you, mine is a laminate American Standard.

Gut strings were what the basses were strung with originally. Steels are convenient when compared to guts with respect to tuning, but the extra tension of steel strings, I feel, suppresses the tops ability to move and respond to the notes being played.

Other opinions expected and respected. But this one is mine.
 
#227
ditto what they said. thicker tone too, as in you still feel like you are supporting the ensemble when you play up the g string. spiros always let me down on that aspect.
 
#228
Thanks
Spiros sound nice and are easy to play on my bass. There are a lot of gigs where I feel I could *almost* do without an amp with Spiros. I'm hoping the Velvets will allow me to ditch the amp.
 
#229
i'm pretty sure that the spiro mittel are louder on my bass than the velvets were...like it has already been pointed out though, that might just be my perception from the player standpoint and a different story out front...and my newer bass might just need more tension right now.
i left the string height the same (pretty high).
 
#230
After much contemplation I finally decided to give Velvets a try. I've been a long time Obligato user as I do a lot of jazz and arco work, so I decided to go with the Anima's. Had my luthier put them on, picked up my bass on the way to a gig (drummerless a la Nat Cole). The strings had so much presence that in a crowded steak house a manager asked me if I could turn down my amp. Ironically, there was no amp. Ha! Day one and diggin' it! :hyper:
 
#235
Just wondering how long it took for you guys to get your replacement string. I had a velvet anima d string break last week and sent of an email etc to velvet for a replacement but am not sure how long it will take to get a new string, I have a recording on the 21st of this month before I go to switzerland to finish up another album. I haven't got a response to my email so I'm not even sure if they have got it yet. Any answers will help.
 
#237
thanks that is good to know, did they reply to your email? sort of have my back up to the wall right now, I'm not digging the velvet anima E A G with a garbo D the balance feels off. Who knows if I don't see something soon I will just bite the bullet and buy another D and if I get a replacement have it just in case.
 
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