What Strings Should I Get?

[danjones1807]

Hi, I've been playing bass for about a year now and am still using the strings that were originally on the bass when i bought it so I've decided it's time for a change.
I am really quite clueless when it comes to strings so i was hoping for some help. I play in a band and we tend to play indie/alternative stuff so I'm just looking for some quite bright sounding and crisp strings that are relatively cheap. I don't play slap bass.
Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Edited September 10, 2014 by danjones1807

[JTUK]

Minefield, tbh....
What is wrong with the ones you want to change, in your opinion?
Sound, feel, ..??
I don't like gunky dull old strings which are too old and feel horrible to me, but plenty do.

You could choose between flats or roundwound but it depends what you are after.
There is a bit range of price..and I'd suggest, quality, but if you narrow down what you are after,
then you could start on a cheaper brand to see if they are on the right lines for what you want.

[danjones1807]

[quote name='JTUK' timestamp='1410370559' post='2548698']
Minefield, tbh....
What is wrong with the ones you want to change, in your opinion?
Sound, feel, ..??
I don't like gunky dull old strings which are too old and feel horrible to me, but plenty do.

You could choose between flats or roundwound but it depends what you are after.
There is a bit range of price..and I'd suggest, quality, but if you narrow down what you are after,
then you could start on a cheaper brand to see if they are on the right lines for what you want.
[/quote]
They just feel quite clumsy to play, sound isn't poor but not great, and just doesn't sound how I'd like it to.
I'd ideally just like some that aren't too clumsy and feel nicer to play?
I'd say starting on a cheaper brand and trying out the style would be a good idea!

[chrismuzz]

Go for nickel roundwound to start with, they sound nice and bright when new without being too clanky like steels (I like that but you may not), with a slightly softer feel. D'Addario are good quality strings at a nice price

[ChunkyMunky]

I was surprised with the quality of the Ernie Ball stuff. Depends how much you'd want to splash out on a set?

[Beer of the Bass]

I'd agree with Chrizmuzz and suggest getting a set of nickel roundwounds from any of the quality mainstream brands (D'Addario, Ernie Ball, Rotosound etc.). Chances are they'll do the job, but if not then at least you'll have a good reference point when looking for alternatives.

[miles'tone]

Seeing as they are the original strings and you find them clumsy to play, I wholeheartedly suggest you take your bass for a (probably first) professional set up. You'll get new strings included in the price and it will be a hell of a lot easier to play (and harder to put down ) - if you don't know of anyone who does this, any decent musical instrument shop should be able to help you out.

+1 for Ernie Ball Slinky's as a starting point too. Widely available and not too expensive relatively.
I like the Hybrid Slinky's as a great all-rounder.

[fingerz]

what bass are you playing?

[danjones1807]

Thanks for the responses! I think I'm going to order some Rotosound Nickel Roundwound as they seem to get good reviews and don't cost the world.
I'll see how the new strings are and then see about getting a professional set up.
I play a Yamaha RBX170, not the best of basses but i quite like it

[miles'tone]

[quote name='danjones1807' timestamp='1410453626' post='2549625']
Thanks for the responses! I think I'm going to order some Rotosound Nickel Roundwound as they seem to get good reviews and don't cost the world.
I'll see how the new strings are and then see about getting a professional set up.
I play a Yamaha RBX170, not the best of basses but i quite like it
[/quote]

Check out the Rotobass series of nickel strings. Same strings as the regular Rotosound nickels but without any silks. Much cheaper!
My mates got a Yammy like yours. Sounds great, nice to play and light too.

[danjones1807]

[quote name='miles'tone' timestamp='1410479305' post='2549972']
Check out the Rotobass series of nickel strings. Same strings as the regular Rotosound nickels but without any silks. Much cheaper!
My mates got a Yammy like yours. Sounds great, nice to play and light too.
[/quote]
Just ordered myself a set! Thanks for the help!