I want to take a bit more control of which strings I use. I constantly end up with bad matches between strings and basses. I permanently designated my Stingray to be the string testing vehicle. Strings are moderately cheap and it makes a big difference, so I think it's worth it.
So here's what needs testing, all assuming that you want roundwounds:
So here are the circular dependencies:
So what to test first? I would be tempted to just go through the 4 base constructions using the DR strings, but that's $80 right poink.
Or I could go through manufacturers first with medium gauge nickel plated hex core strings.
I already know that I don't want anything fancy. No long life coating. No taper at the bridge (anybody wants a discounted set of Dean Markley SR2000s?). Prefer no silk anywhere. I guess I'll end up with medium gauge so I probably won't put that test first.
I have a high preference for manufacturers that clearly label what you get (which wind, what kind of core), so points for DR.
What do you do about your strings?
So here's what needs testing, all assuming that you want roundwounds:
- Which construction (hex or round core, nickel plated steel or stainless steel)?
- Which gauge?
- Which manufacturer?
So here are the circular dependencies:
- I can't figure out which kind of string (hex or round core, nickel plated steel or stainless steel) I like just with one manufacturer since the same kind of string could come out differently for other manufactuers
- gauge is intermixed with construction, because:
- nickel plated steel versus stainless steel windings have magnetic implications, that means the same gauge will have different magnetic induction
- round core versus hex core changes string tension, so the same gauge will feel different
- construction is intermixed with manufacturer since some strings are more difficult to make, namely a round core needs higher quality making so that the string doesn't get uneven
So what to test first? I would be tempted to just go through the 4 base constructions using the DR strings, but that's $80 right poink.
Or I could go through manufacturers first with medium gauge nickel plated hex core strings.
I already know that I don't want anything fancy. No long life coating. No taper at the bridge (anybody wants a discounted set of Dean Markley SR2000s?). Prefer no silk anywhere. I guess I'll end up with medium gauge so I probably won't put that test first.
I have a high preference for manufacturers that clearly label what you get (which wind, what kind of core), so points for DR.
What do you do about your strings?
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