Flatwound high C string to match my LaBella LTF's?

emjazz

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Feb 23, 2003
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Hey all. I have a custom 6 string set of Low Tension Flats from LaBella on my 6 string acoustic bass guitar. The issue is that the high C string is .028 or .029 gauge (can't remember which). It's definitely too light for my taste. The other strings are perfect. Is there a flatwound C string, even from another company, that you feel would go well with the feel and sound of the LTF's, but is a higher gauge string? B through G sound really warm and round, while the C string sounds too twangy. I've asked LaBella for a different gauge and they said it's too expensive to make just a few for me (completely understandable).

If someone has a different 6 string set that is similar in feel and sound to the LTF's that they suggest, do feel free. These strings sound so darn perfect though, until I get to the high C.

Thanks!
 
In any 6-string set the High-C generally stands out... Play higher up on the G-string? I typically don't touch the High-C no lower than the 7th fret.

That's not really helpful, and I'll just assume that you and I play very different types of music. :) I have a good friend who plays 7 string bass with a high F and makes it sound completely integrated with the other strings. In my experience a high C string integrates better (for me) when it's closer to a .032 gauge, but that has been with nickel roundwounds. I don't play roundwounds any longer. I'm just seeing what my options are. It's typical for upright bass players to use a different material for the high G or even D and G to warm up those strings. I'm using an acoustic instrument, so I'm thinking along the same lines, but with less options.

The C string for the TI flats sounds rounder and warmer (from my memory), but I like the sound of the LaBella strings better. I may have to try some different C strings on my own I suppose to see if I can find what I need.
 
It's a suggestion.

I replied to your other message with suggestions on actual strings...

High C in general with a flat is not going to match the other strings though... Comparing a string with just flat ribbon and core compared to strings with multiple windings.
 
It's a suggestion.

I replied to your other message with suggestions on actual strings...

High C in general with a flat is not going to match the other strings though... Comparing a string with just flat ribbon and core compared to strings with multiple windings.

That info is more helpful. Just saw your email. Thanks very much for that. Flats are fairly new for me. Thanks!
 
I also play E-C
It takes a pretty long time to mellow out the c string for some reason,
I bin playing TI right now and they seem to be doing the trick.

The TI c string I think is a 33 guage.

Ps. I also have a set of the labella
Low tenison flat but couldn't find a c string for the set.
Would you know where I could get one,
Thx Barry.
 
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I also play E-C
It takes a pretty long time to mellow out the c string for some reason,
I bin playing TI right now and they seem to be doing the trick.

The TI c string I think is a 33 guage.

Ps. I also have a set of the labella
Low tenison flat but couldn't find a c string for the set.
Would you know where I could get one,
Thx Barry.
Contact Eric Cocco and see if you can get one. I'm a LaBella artist, and it helps that I'm in NYC. That's how I got mine.
 
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