Strings, strings,strings- what are you using?

[flaxattack]

 
 
(Message edited by flaxattack on May 23, 2004)

[ajdover]

I use Rotosound RS66LC's on all my basses except the Spyder and the Exploiter.  On the Spyder, I'm currently using GHS Boomers, extra long scale, .40-.95, and on my Exploiter, I use RS66M (medium scale, .40-95).  I use the GHS on the Spyder because that's what they have at Guitar Center, but I'm going to go on the web and order some RS66's for my Spyder through Just Strings.  
 
I've used Rotosounds since I've been playing (over 27 years).  There was time that I used DRs (mainly because that's what was available), and they're good strings as well.  I prefer Rotosound, however, since I'm a big John Entwistle, Chris Squire, Geddy Lee, Greg Lake, etc. fan, and I need that kind of sound.  I've found that the Rotosounds give that to me reliably.
 
I like the lighter gauge strings.  Standard gauge strings seem like telephone poles to me, but hey, to each his own.  The lighter gauge allows me to bend the string easier, makes popping and slapping easier, and are just better for me when playing a four set gig.  
 
Alan

[flaxattack]

 
 
(Message edited by flaxattack on May 23, 2004)

[alemboid]

I use Daddario Prisms.
 
They are a steel round wound with a tapered B string for 5's and regular core for 4's. I've tried about every other option in manufacturers, and I found that the Prisms last longer, REALLY bring out the Alembic sound, are even in tone string to string, are reliable (can't tell you how many sets I've purchased by other brands that had a dead E, A, B or D string- only to ruin the set), and they are easy on the frets/fingers.
 
Personally, I found that the coated strings like Elixers, Black Diamonds, Rotosounds, Fenders, DRs, La Bellas and so on seem to at least subtly affect the true tone of the instrument.  
 
After trying so many, Prisms are right for me. Only you know what really works for you. Now, if I could only have the money back that I wasted to find out the long, hard way!
 
Bryant

[palembic]

I'm on Ernie Ball's slinky roundwounds for Bonnie. 2,5 years ...about 3 sets. They  are OK to me. Oh ...I will change once but ...let's say ...not in the near future.
 
 
PTBO

[jseitang]

flatwounds dadarios

[frank_orlando]

I am using GHS Boomers .045-.105 on my two short scales. I like the sound and feel. I didn't use Rotos even though they sounded great because they ate my frets...BUT... now that Rotosound makes a nickle plated Swing Bass String I am going to give them a try. Frank  

[ox_junior]

I use Rotosound RS66s on all my basses.  Nothing else gives me the sound I need.  Can't wait to put them on my new Spyder....that'll make it official then!
 
Mike Bisch

[keavin]

old alembic (#12)just loves those DR high beams, those strings  just seems to bring out that good ole ripe age alembic tone in my old  bass!!!,

[flaxattack]

 
 
(Message edited by flaxattack on May 23, 2004)

[rogertvr]

The Dragon's Wing came fitted with Alembic strings - CX-3 (45 gauge, I think).  Mica - where are the Elites I sent you???
 
Anyway - didn't like the Alembic strings within about two nanoseconds of playing them.  Too heavy and sounded like they were dead.  I like a string with some ring in it, and CX-3 ain't it.
 
So, I put some 35 gauge Elites on the DW pretty much a day or so after I'd got it home and decided that, in my own familiar environment, CX-3 weren't for me. The Elites are roundcore stainless steel roundwound.  Do they ring and sustain?  Oh yes!
 
A couple of days ago I put some Status Hotwires on my 4001.  Roundcore stainless steel roundwound precision hand-wound strings. They're lovely - best strings I've ever played. I consigned Rotosound to the bin (under protest, the bin had never actually done anything to offend me THAT much) years ago!  Sorry to the Rotosound fans in here, but we're all entitled to our opinion.
 
Anyway, on the 4001, the Status strings have given it something it's never had - midrange. It now has a firm and round bottom end, even more so than the Elites. One my criticisms of the Elites has been that the top can be harsh. The Status strings address that, whilst giving more sustain and balancing the midrange at the same time.
 
I'll be fitting a set to the DW once the Elites have passed their useful life.  I'll report back if anyone is interested.
 
Cheers,
 
Rog

[flaxattack]

 
 
(Message edited by flaxattack on May 23, 2004)

[xlrogue6]

There you have it--the result of the WalMartization of retail.  All the more reason to buy from guys who know their stuff (the Alembic Authorized Dealers list is a good place to start!) and can actually have an informed discussion about strings.  They'll also know exactly where they are on the wall.

[flaxattack]

my new british alembic buddy is ranty about stratus hotwires...33$ delivered to the states
gonna give em try too

[frank_orlando]

Questions for those who are using Rotosound RS66s (and other stainless steel roundwounds)... Do you have to dress your frets periodically? Have you had to re-fret? If so can you comment on how long your frets lasted? Have you tried the new nickle plated version of the Rotos? Can you comment on the sound difference? Thanks, Frank