what's the differ between string-through-body and topload?

[hennessybass]

I agree with Tyson. I didn't say that I didn't necessarily believe the science, just that it's irrelevant. And I saw no indication of exactly what the science is that the poster was claiming. How can I believe/not believe something if I don't know what it is?

I know man. I wasn't trying to mess with you, just saw an opportunity for a Neil quote, and couldn't pass it up.

 

[walterw]

Since the closest to "science" I've read anybody getting is trying the bass strung both ways, maybe even recording it, and invariably finding no real difference, then the "science" would suggest that there's no relevant difference.

(I know, not double-blind, and just anecdotal, but still the most "science-y" part of this discussion i ever see, actual experimentation.)

 

[JTE]

You simply can't compare even the same bass if your restring it. Relieving the tension on the strings and causes memory loss and the strings always sound "new" right after being retensioned.

I did a side-by-side test. I strung both of my Laklands 4-94s with alternating strings. One had the E and D top-load with the A and G string-through. The other had them reversed. When it was time to restring, I reversed the alternation. That way I was comparing the same sets of strings in real time, and over time. Before I did that I was one who was convinced that there was a subtle but noticeable difference in sound and feel.

But the truth is that given a true side-by-side comparison, there's simply no difference in either, none at all. I still tend to string 'em through body just because I've always string those basses that way, and it keeps the ferrules in the body...

The only real advantage to top load versues STB is that I wouldn't have to special order extra-long scale strings if I was still using D'Addario on those basses. But the DR's fit STB on a 34" scale just fine so there's no difference.

John

 

[Ric5]

what's the differ between string-through-body and topload?

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String-thru body is more likely to break a string.

 

[Batmensch]

Well, one is the strings are loaded thru the body, and the other is the strings are loaded thru the top. That's the only real difference.

 

[mongo2]

An advantage I've found to a strng through body is that stringing through keeps the ferrules in the back of the body from falling out.

 

[Batmensch]

An advantage I've found to a strng through body is that stringing through keeps the ferrules in the back of the body from falling out.

That's the only reason I do it.

 

[grendle]

Prefer the top loader for quick string changes. I rotate sets for cleaning to keep them bright so the top loader makes it a breeze.

 

[walterw]

I did a side-by-side test.

SCIENCE!

 

[Steveaux]

, and it keeps the ferrules in the body...

Finally, a definitive answer.

There really is no discernible difference.

 

[brett25]

Im noticing more sustain with a body through. Could be my imagination, but I do believe its there. Also I like the idea of the strings goingthrough the solid body and I like the angle thats being made at the bridge. Given the choice I prefer body though, if I didn't have the choice I wouldn't much worry about it.

 

[micgtr71]

That's the only reason I do it.

Me too. I had the original bridge on my 95 jazz which did not allow for top load. When I changed it last summer to a Hipshot A-style, I gained the option to top load. I still haven't tried it. I like the way it plays string-through.

 

[David Jayne]

It makes no difference at all. And if you really think it through, it's obvious why it doesn't.

 

[stevenkidman045]

Top loads typically run into excess E length problems. Fender strings don't fit topload Fenders properly, for example. :roll: The step down is too far up and gets awkwardly wound on the post. Works, but is sloppy and wrong. string through v top load is primarily of cosmetic concern. As long as the mechanic's are correct. That the setup can achieve a proper break angle at the bridge, it's going to sound fine. Construction wise - it is easier for a Luther to guarantee a good break angle with String through - there's a whole lot of angle available there. I like the look of string through and were I having a custom build done, I would do it string through - knowing that pretty much it's the appearance is all...

 

[zortation]

Marketing. Once the string goes over the bridge saddle it doesn't matter.

 

[carl h.]

My favorite strings have an excessively long taper and do not work well on a top load, so I prefer body through so I may use my preferred strings.

Aside from that I see no difference.