Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice. Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads. Join freeLog in Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
On my Xotic J5 I like DR fat Beams . But yesterday I tried a set of Hi Beams for the first time. Nice and crunchy but not brittle sounding. I change strings every 3 months and the DRs will sound great the whole time... not brand new sounding but still very lively.
Cleartone makes a coated string that doesn't feel like plastic (I'm looking at you elixir and DR).
You should try those. Unfortunately, they only come with hexcores, but I think Warwick uses strings with the same proprietary coating in their own strings.
I didnt like the tone of lo riders or hi beams either. But I threw some sunbeams on a cheap bass for a friend awhile back when amazon had them for sale for 10 bucks. Now they are my go to string. They arent edgy and bright like the others but have enough bright to cut through. And they keep it for awhile!
Use some lemon oil - can get it from your local music shoppe. Usually comes in a little spray bottle. Spray it on & wipe it off, keeps the strings sounding fresh(ish) for a very long time. AND it keeps the fretboard looking nice.
I use Labella Hard rockin' stainless steel .90 to.30 custom gauge on a fretless.. wipe the
fingerboard with alcohol to get rid of grunge, and i will boil my strings every couple of
months to get the crud off em