Flatwound strings generally have higher tension and can be more difficult to keep in tune than roundwound strings. Most flatwounds will cost more on average than roundwound strings, although they will last much longer.
Do flatwound strings have more tension?
Conversely, flatwound strings are far easier on the fingers, but they might feel slippery as a result. Furthermore, they hold more tension, meaning that the fingers need to apply more pressure to the strings over the fretboard to produce a specific tone, especially as we arrive at the first frets just below the nut.
Do flatwounds have less tension?
They will loosen up a bit over time, but they won’t be as loose as rounds because they have more mass, requiring greater tension to get the same pitch as rounds.
Are flatwound strings better for bass?
Flatwound strings are able to produce a heavier bass sound, as well as harmonics, and hihg-end overtones than their roundwound counterparts.
Do flatwound strings have less sustain?
Benefits of Flatwound Strings
They can be thumpy, have less sustain and often have more string tension to a comparable roundwound string. Flats don’t sound their best brand new, so it’s a bit of a time commitment to give them a proper try. The more you play flats the better they sound so getting them broken in is key.
Are flatwound strings stiffer?
I think flatwounds can seem higher tension than similarly tensioned rounds because they are stiffer due to the lack of space between windings of the outer layer; TIs are so flexible because of the tiny space between windings and the silk layer between core and outer layer.
What are flatwound strings good for?
Flatwound strings are known for being used in jazz, but they’ve also been used by many blues and country guitarists as well. Regardless of playing style, flatwound strings can also be useful in taming the sound of an overly bright or harsh sounding guitar.
How long do flatwound bass strings last?
So how often should you change flatwound strings? If you are looking to retain some brightness in their tone, somewhere between every 4-6 months depending on how much you play. If you are looking for a warm and smooth tone, a set of flats can last for decades as long as they don`t snap.
Are flatwound strings easier?
Playability. Because of the increased tension that comes with flatwounds, it can be harder to depress the strings. Getting used to this will take some time and effort, and you’re likely to experience some early onset finger fatigue when getting started.
Why are flatwound strings more expensive?
Another thing to consider is the amount of processing that must go into the fabrication. This is why Flatwound or nylon tapewound strings will generally cost more than a typical roundwound string especially if they are hand wound (which is rare these days).
Who uses flatwound bass strings?
Traditionally used for jazz and blues styles of music, they’re now popular in the indie world and bands who are chasing the classic sound of 50’s Rock n’ Roll. Roundwound strings are wound with wire, giving them ridges and grooves, whereas flatwounds are wrapped with tape, meaning that the surface is smooth.
Does Steve Harris use flatwound strings?
well, thats the thing about steve harris flats. You’re using a flatwound string to get an extremely bright tone, so you have to change them really often.
What strings does sting use on his bass?
“They got him a worn-looking bass to play, and he fell in love with it and bought it. I have an identical ’57 Precision as a backup on the tour.” Sting’s action is normal to a little high, and he uses DR Strings Nickel Lo-Riders NLH-40 (.
How long do round wound strings last?
Roundwounds: every two or three months.
Are pure nickel strings better?
Of the two string types, pure nickel strings are arguably more durable. If you have played nickel plated strings, you are likely to have noticed that their tone alters over time. When you first put them on your guitar, they sound bright and snappy. Over time though, they lose this brightness.
Are flatwound strings thicker?
The wrap wire on a flatwound string is typically slightly thinner than the wrap wire on a roundwound string. That means that for a given string gauge (thickness) the core wire on a flatwound string will be slightly thicker – and therefore stiffer – than the one found in the corresponding roundwound string.
How are flatwound strings made?
Flatwound strings are made using a flat ribbon of steel wrapped around the inner core of each string rather than round wire. This makes the strings smoother, stiffer, and darker sounding than roundwound strings. They’ll typically also have less sustain, which is largely a result of the stiffness of the strings.
What are flat round guitar strings?
Flat or Round – What’s the Difference? Strings are made by wrapping material around an inner core of wire. Roundwound strings use a round external wire to wrap around the inner wire core, while flatwound strings use a flat, tape-like wire. The difference has an effect on the sound and playing feel of the strings.
What do flatwounds sound like?
Yes, let’s admit it: Flatwounds sound softer and warmer than roundwounds, at least most of the time. Some may call the sound “dull“, but that’s not the case. Flatwounds have a healthy amount of high frequencies, but this is not the main focus.
What are Tapewound bass strings?
Tape Wound bass guitar strings are manufactured with nylon tape wrapped around the outer wire wrap. The tone produced by tape wound strings is mellow and warm. Tape wound strings are often used on fretless basses since they cause less wear and tear to the fingerboard than a traditional round wound string.
What does long scale bass strings mean?
Scale length refers to the relationship between the length and diameter (“gauge”) of the strings and the pitches they produce. Short-scale basses are generally defined as having scale lengths between 30′ and 32′. Long-scale basses conventionally have a 34′ string length.