Another string thread

[stout71]

I know there is no universal perfect string.  We all have different ears, but I am having a problem that seems consistent from brand to brand.  My low-B just plain sounds dead in comparison to the other 4.  I did move down from 130 to 125 and it helped, marginally.  I'll go down to 120/118 if it helps more.  Floppiness is not a big deal to me.  I've primarily used Rotosounds, PSD's and Swing Bass 66's for a long time and I've tried the Alembic ones as well.  Same thing - dead low-B.  The strings all hit the nut and bridge at roughly the same spot so I don't think my stringing method is the problem.
 
I like very bright strings and then EQ the pre-amp with a lot of midrange punch for live performance so it cuts through the mix.  I prefer roundwound strings.  I'm just used to them and don't care about string noise.
 
If I try a bunch of other string brands and I still have problems, then I will address it more fully at that point.
 
Anyone have any suggestions on what I should try next, given my preference and EQ settings for rock?   There are obviously a ton of things to try.

[growlypants]

For what it's worth, I have a deader than the rest B string, also.  I recently switched to the D'Addario Half Rounds (from Alembic rounds) and actually prefer the less zingier string noise of the D's.  I, too, would like to hear from anyone about the tendency of the B to deaden before other strings would.  (Is it a characteristic of the thickness?)

[FC Bass]

The best low B I tried was from this set: http://www.lordofthestrings.com/lots/RAPRD/Galli-SG5N-/00001401.html
 
145 (!)
 
It has a tapered section on the bridge side (about the size of the A string where it goes over the saddle) I think that makes a huge difference in the way the string behaves.  
Very well balanced sound (same ring across all strings)and extremely tight. :-)
 
Downside: They are very hard on your fingers...

[hammer]

Had the same experience until I splurged and tried a set of TI Powerbass strings on my Europa 6.  They are expensive (approx. $100) but stay bright for a long time and really cut through.
 
I know that Thomas Infeld strings are priced ridiculously high and they are best known for their flats which I use on 2 of my 3 Alembics but I keep coming back to them and ultimately they provide me with whatever sound I need for what I playing.

[stout71]

Bloody hell, Brian.  Those ARE expensive!  The problem is that the 4 other strings are too hefty.  Sounds like I have some stuff to ponder.

[edwardofhuncote]

+1 on TI PowerBass strings, if you like super-bright. I liked the gauges but they had way too much sizzle for me. I've seen them on sale for $89.

[smokin_dave]

The best low B I've used so far comes from this company..........
 
http://store.kaliumstrings.com/index.php/
 
Another really good low B comes from this company
 
http://www.ghsstrings.com/products?categories=bass-boomers
 
The GHS bass boomers have a really good low B.
 
It's all about string tension from what I've been told.

[ed_zeppelin]

You can get individual bass strings (or any other instrument) at juststrings.com, in case you want to try individual strings without having to fork over for a whole set.
 
http://www.juststrings.com/bassguitarsinglestrings.html

[stout71]

Yeah, I know.  I'm afraid I won't be comparing apples to apples that way, though.  If the core size is off even a smidge, the output of the strings will be different.
 
Kalium only takes PayPal, and I hate PayPal.  Otherwise I'm all over those.  You can build your own set for the same price (or cheaper) than the full sets.
 
The TI Powerbass ones are just too big (the other 4) for me.  I'm used to playing 40-95/100.