I've noticed several types of strings available for non-bow upright players, steel, synthetic, tape wrapped, etc. What are the preferences, and why?

Posted - 02/04/2010 :  04:00:29      

I come to like my Barefoot Larry’s Hillbilly Slap Bass Strings a lot. I’ll admit my bass lost some of its volume when I switched from steel strings to the synthetic (especially the E string), but the tone and ease of playing was increased. I’ve just got a cheap plywood bass, but the tone is much closer to gut or Supernils than anything else I’ve heard. It sounds much better recorded or miced than ever before. However, the smooth surface of the strings (unlike Supernils) plays like butter. I don’t have bass player fingers because I don’t play if that often, but when I do, I don’t wear blisters on my fingers playing them. Another great advantage is the low price.

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  12:17:46  

I just ordered Eurosonic Lights from Bob G for a bass that I plan to play only pizz. It'll be interesting to see how they turn out. I've played a friend's bass strung with gut strings and I'm hoping to get near that feel and sound.

The bass that I play with and without a bow has Thomastik Spirocores. They are a good choice for a one-size-fits-all bass.

Posted - 02/16/2010 :  13:02:18  

I play bluegrass style upright bass, and I use the Thomastik Spirocore mediums. I prefer them for the boom and volume, they give it that really low E.

Posted - 03/04/2010 :  22:19:40  

I play bluegrass and jazz, both with a piz and arco. I like Piastro Obligato's. They are great strings. Audubon strings have great prices on these.