• 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 free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

What strings for P Bass

#7
mldavis said:
What's benefits (if any) of using flat wounds instead of [DEL]normal[/DEL] round wound strings?

Thanks
Martin
Click to expand...

1. Warmer fatter tone
2. classic sound of the 60's & much of the 70's hits
3. minimal to no fret clank
4. minimal to no finger noise
5. smoother on the fingers
6. stiffer strings allow for a lower action
7. last forever
8. just "sit better' in a full band mix
9. less wear & tear on the frets

All IMHO, IME, YMMV, etc. Not everyone likes flats, but they work great for me & many others.
 
#10
As aus bass said, it all depends on the sound you are after. One type of string isn't really "Better" than the other, it's all personal preference and what sound you want. It might help us to give you better recommendations if you could tell us some bassists whose sound you like and might like to emulate.
In general, round wounds will give you a brighter, more modern tone, sometimes referred to as "Piano-like", flatwounds will give you a smoother, rounder, more mellow vintage (think Motown) type tone.
Again, I suggest telling us some of your favorite players whose sound you really like.
 
#15
C.Linton said:
As aus bass said, it all depends on the sound you are after. One type of string isn't really "Better" than the other, it's all personal preference and what sound you want. It might help us to give you better recommendations if you could tell us some bassists whose sound you like and might like to emulate.
In general, round wounds will give you a brighter, more modern tone, sometimes referred to as "Piano-like", flatwounds will give you a smoother, rounder, more mellow vintage (think Motown) type tone.
Again, I suggest telling us some of your favorite players whose sound you really like.
Click to expand...
+1. There's a very big contingent of flats fans here on TB, and with good reason; flats are great, but they may not be the end-all be-all for you. It just comes down to personal preference. Rounds are in much wider use for most styles of music, but your best bet is to try both and see which feels best to you.

For flats, GHS Precision Flats are a good, middle-of-the-road flatwound that aren't too expensive. A great place to start.

For rounds, I'd say start with something Like D'Addario XLs - a very popular, bright-sounding roundwound, also not too expensive.

Try each for a couple of weeks and see which floats your boat.
 
#16
mldavis said:
Hi guys

I've just purchased a squier classic vibe p bass and I'm unsure as to what strings to put on it.

I'm new to the bass so haven't got a clue which guage/brand to get so I'm hoping you guys can help me.

Thanks in advance

Martin
Click to expand...

Put on the strings you like ... Me I like D'addario nickle rounds ...

Last weekend I plaed a p-bass with flats ... A lot of clicking and a lot of fret buzz and no deep tone ... I'll stick with rounds ...
 
#17
What/whose bass tones do you like?

I personally can't stand flats, especially on a P. They're just too dead and thuddy sounding. I like some brightness and zing in my tone.

D'Addario nickel wound are my personal favorite on a P. Plus, they're cheap!
 
#20
Hey Martin

As you probably can see we are a mixed bunch...

Rounds have got great qualities as do flats

Either will be fine on your P bass but just be aware that different strings will bring out different tone aspects of the bass as does whether you play fingers or pick and what gear you plug your bass into

Enjoy your bass man :)

Rossa
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back