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The Best in Double Bass Strings by Maureen Pandos
The Best in Double Bass Strings by Maureen Pandos… Wow, bass strings… I could talk to you about them until I’m blue in the face. There are so many to choose from and, unfortunately, they’re not so “budget friendly” for most of us. This is where (I hope) my experience as a Luthier, who specializes in double bass will come in handy.
I’m going to start by separating this into a few sub-categories.
#1. Best strings for the money.
In my personal opinion, D’Addario makes the best strings for the money. Their Helicore series is exceptional. I personally recommend the Helicore Orchestral for my classical students and clients, and probably recommend the Helicore Hybrid’s most to clients who play an array of musical styles. Also, check out the synthetic gut Zyex strings. I’ve heard nothing but positive feedback from customers. Generally, all their strings are reliable and consistent. They warm up well without an awful amount of “break in” time and sound pretty darn good under the bow or pizz.
#2. Most versatile set.
Hands down, Tomastik Spirocores. Initially marketed as an Orchestral string, the Spirocores have transgressed all genres. They are specifically popular among jazz musicians because of the deep growl they possess. They can be a little bit aggressive for the beginner bassist, but once you get used to their beefiness, you won’t be disappointed! Also, this string has the longest life of any string I’ve ever used; they just won’t die!
#3. Best Orchestral set.
Pirastro Obligatos or Permantents depending on whether you want darker (Obligatos) or brighter (Permanents). Both are a helluva string and you won’t be let down by Pirasto’s products. Pirastro is an older company that has been making strings for a long time (over 200 years!) So, in other words, they know what they’re doing.
#4. Best jazz set.
Spirocores. Thanks for playing.
#5. Best solo set.
Tomastik Dominants or the Helicore Solo series. The Dominants are a bit more rigid but have a wonderful upfront, but song-like quality. The Helicores are a bit more friendly under the left hand and also have a beautiful solo voice.
#6. Best Bluegrass/Country set.
I’d have to go with the Helicore Hybrids. Very versatile and user friendly. Great under the bow, amp, and finger (pizz).
#7. Best Slapping set.
LaBella Supernils take the cake on this one. If you’re into Rock-a-billy and/or all it’s sub-genres, this is the string for you. Nylon wound and beer/sweat proof, this string slaps like no other. Plus, it’s reasonably priced so go for it! Slap the heck out of those things!
#8. Best gut-like set.
I’m a pretty big fan of the Velvet Compas strings. They are warm and user friendly and sound fantastic with very little “break in” period. Very gut-like.
#9. Best gut set.
Handmade strings by Damien Dlugolecki. They’re not cheap, but they’re worth it.
#10. My personal favorite set.
Pirastro Original Flat Chromes because that’s what my teacher Homer Mensch loved and I listened to him without question.
#11. My secret personal favorite set.
Jargars. Known more for their cello strings, the Jargers are clean and bright and don’t compromise darkness for a good, straight forward sound. Give them a try, let me know what you think….
Thanks for reading! Now get practicing!
Bass Videos
Interview With K3 Sisters Band
K3 Sisters Band Interview…
It is very rare when I talk to a band where all the members play bass. The K3 Sisters Band is a perfect example of a group where Kaylen, Kelsey and Kristen Kassab are all multi-instrumentalists and take turns playing bass.
Hailing from Texas, these three sisters have been playing music since they were very young and have amassed an amazing amount of original music, music videos, streaming concerts, podcasts, and content that has taken numerous social media platforms by storm. On TikTok alone, they have over 2.5 million followers and more than a billion views.
Join me as we hear the story of their musical journey, how they get their sound, and the fundamental principles behind these prolific musicians.
Here is the K3 Sisters Band!
Photo, Bruce Ray Productions
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Bass Player Health
What is a Pinched Nerve? with Dr. Randy Kertz
What is a Pinched Nerve?
In this month’s video, we will cover how to tell if you have a pinched nerve and when to seek professional help.
Dr. Randall Kertz is the author of The Bassist’s Complete Guide to Injury Management, Prevention and Better Health. Click here to get your copy today!
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This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Check out our top 10 favorite basses on Instagram this week…
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Gear News
New Gear: Ashdown ORIGINAL-EVO-C112T-300
Introducing the Original-EVO-C112T, a ground-breaking innovation in the realm of bass amplifiers. This exceptional amplifier redefines the standards of power, portability, and precision, offering musicians an unparalleled experience in amplification technology.
Weighing in at a mere 13.5kg, the Original-EVO-C112T packs an astonishing 300 watts of unadulterated Ashdown bass tone into a compact and lightweight package. Say goodbye to the days of lugging around heavy and cumbersome gear – this amplifier is designed for the modern musician on the move.
Introducing the Original-EVO-C112T, a ground-breaking innovation in the realm of bass amplifiers. This exceptional amplifier redefines the standards of power, portability, and precision, offering musicians an unparalleled experience in amplification technology.
Weighing in at a mere 13.5kg, the Original-EVO-C112T packs an astonishing 300 watts of unadulterated Ashdown bass tone into a compact and lightweight package. Say goodbye to the days of lugging around heavy and cumbersome gear – this amplifier is designed for the modern musician on the move.
Designed to accommodate global touring, the Original-EVO-C112T features auto-protect voltage support and an adaptive temperature-controlled fan for optimal performance in any environment.
In summary, the Original-EVO-C112T is a game-changing amplifier that combines power, portability, and precision. It’s a testament to innovation and quality in the world of bass amplification, deserving attention from musicians looking to take their music to the next level.
Product Specification-
Power Output: 300 Watts
Power Requirement: 115-230 Volts
Speaker Configuration: 1 x 12” + Horn
High Instrument Input: Impedance 3.9m Ohms, Input range 150mV – 20mV p-p
Low Instrument Input: Impedance -1M Ohms, Input range 150mV to 10V p-p
Line Input: Impedance 10k Ohms, Input range 300mV – 40V p-p
DI Output: 600 Ohm balance / Level -20dBu nominal
Minimum Impedance: 4 Ohm
Headphone Output: Yes and safe for silent practice
EQ: Bass +/-15dB @ 100Hz, Lo Mid +/-15dB @ 220Hz, Middle +/-15dB @ 660Hz, Hi Mid +/-15 dB @1.5kHz, Treble +/-15dB @ 7kHz
Effects Send: Impedance 22k Ohms / Level 0dBu nominal
Effects Return: Impedance 22k Ohms / Level 0dBu nominal
Dimensions (H x W x D in mm): 470 x 606 x 381
Weight: 13.5kg
For more info please visit www.ashdownmusic.com
Gear News
Tech 21’s SansAmp Bass Driver DI Celebrates 30th Anniversary
Tech 21’s SansAmp Bass Driver DI Celebrates 30th Anniversary…
The SansAmp Bass Driver DI has been an arsenal staple for players and studios almost since the day it was introduced in 1994. To commemorate its 30th anniversary, Tech 21 is issuing a limited edition with an anodized precision-machined aluminum billet housing and all metal knobs.
This all-analog multi-function, multi-application pedal dials up big vintage tube tones, bright modern slap sounds, gnarly distortions, and all in between. There are three different outputs to drive power amps, recording desks, PA mixers, or simply enhance your current rig. Controls include Presence for definition and upper harmonic content; Blend to combine the ratio of direct signal and SansAmp circuitry; and active 3-band EQ with 12dB of cut or boost.
The 100% analog SansAmp Tube Amplifier Emulation technology encompasses the entire signal chain, from pre-amp to power amp to speaker simulation. An integral part of the circuitry, the individually-tailored SansAmp speaker simulation will complement any type of bass speaker cabinet system.
It is rare an electronic music-related product can withstand such a test of time. The SansAmp Bass Driver has been used for every kind of music style from death metal to commercial jingles, in countless studios, and on tours around the globe. In fact, many mammoth stage rigs you see are actually driven by a SansAmp nestled behind the backline. It has defied the odds and to this day, SansAmp remains the standard of the industry.
Anticipated Availability: May/June 2024
For more information, visit online at tech21nyc.com/products/sansamp/bass-driver-30/
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