Rounds for P Bass

[FugaziBomb]

I have a parts P-Bass with a Dimarzio Split P that I am currently using DR Sunbeams on. I'm planning on restringing it soon, since the strings are getting a little more mellow than I like. I was just going to string it up with Sunbeams again, as I liked the tone of them well enough, but I figured before ordering another set, I'd see what the talk bass community thinks.

The pick-ups are designed to even out the mid hump typical of p-basses. I wouldn't call the tone scooped, but there is definitely upper sizzle present that can get a little clanky with bright steel strings. I want to go with nickel because of this, but I do not want to want to lose too much high end content. Best description I can think of would be "piano" like tone, but I am weary of strings that advertise this because the combination of bright strings and brighter pick-ups may be overkill. Any suggestions?

 

[ThudThudThud]

I really like Fender 7250ML strings. Stainless strings die quickly for me, but these keep their clarity for a while. I have them on a number of basses, but my favourite is the MiM Precision. Just seem right together.

 

[michael_t]

If you like the tone and feel of the Sunbeams, you're better off sticking with them as they have certain qualities that are unique to them, such as the round-core flexibility and suppleness and smoother-than-average surface texture.

 

[buldog5151bass]

Rotosound Swing strings sound great on a P.

 

[FugaziBomb]

If you like the tone and feel of the Sunbeams, you're better off sticking with them as they have certain qualities that are unique to them, such as the round-core flexibility and suppleness and smoother-than-average surface texture.

They really did resonate with me (pun) and they are definitely a top choice. They really nail that piano tone I'm looking for.

Rotosound Swing strings sound great on a P.

I am using them on a cheap Washburn XB-100 loaded with a SD "Hot for P" (really mid heavy) and am not feeling it. The top end is cutting through, but I'm not getting a lot of the high mids I often crave. Rotos work well for my two T-40s and a Jazz Bass I converted to dual MM Humbuckers, though. I think I may have started the mother of all YMMV threads...

 

[Linnin]

Good Old GHS Bass Boomers! A Fresh Perspective On A Stalwart American Standard

 

[FugaziBomb]

Good Old GHS Bass Boomers! A Fresh Perspective On A Stalwart American Standard
View attachment 1892892

I used these on my first bass almost exclusively. It was a MiM Jazz with SD Quarter Pounds. They paired really well together. The combination had a nice snarl. Funny I didn't even consider them. They are a definite contender.

 

[michael_t]

I used these on my first bass almost exclusively. It was a MiM Jazz with SD Quarter Pounds. They paired really well together. The combination had a nice snarl. Funny I didn't even consider them. They are a definite contender.

While you're considering the Boomers, you might also want to look at the Round Core Boomers. They're not quite as flexible as the Sunbeams and their tone is more low-mid focused but they're a nice alternative to the regular hex-core Boomers.

 

[crucislancer]

I have a parts P-Bass with a Dimarzio Split P that I am currently using DR Sunbeams on. I'm planning on restringing it soon, since the strings are getting a little more mellow than I like. I was just going to string it up with Sunbeams again, as I liked the tone of them well enough, but I figured before ordering another set, I'd see what the talk bass community thinks.

The pick-ups are designed to even out the mid hump typical of p-basses. I wouldn't call the tone scooped, but there is definitely upper sizzle present that can get a little clanky with bright steel strings. I want to go with nickel because of this, but I do not want to want to lose too much high end content. Best description I can think of would be "piano" like tone, but I am weary of strings that advertise this because the combination of bright strings and brighter pick-ups may be overkill. Any suggestions?

For nickel strings, I’ve been using D’Addario XL165s for a couple of years now on both of my Precision basses.

 

[Buzz E]

Having tried most of these mentioned, there is still nothing like Sunbeams! If you want growl, then the DR Jonas Hellborg Rounds. All fundamental without many harmonic tones. Pure nickel, single wrapped on a round core. Deep, clear and growly...no clank or zing.

 

[Coolhandjjl]

Good Old GHS Bass Boomers! A Fresh Perspective On A Stalwart American Standard
View attachment 1892892

I put a set on my 4003. I was pleasantly surprised! Great strings!

 

[Gideon352]

The Dunlop Super Brights sound to me like what you're after. Same piano-like timbre with more crunch in the upper mid range.

 

[bassliner50]

I use these on my P's. They last, they respond, and sound good through different genres.

 

[filmtex]

I use these on my P's. They last, they respond, and sound good through different genres.View attachment 1911736

Yep. My first choice for years though I recently found that I could get Sfarzo strings again. They're fantastic. Just put their V strings on both my working basses and can't wait to do a show with them. Again. I used them for years and went to Markley Cryos when I couldn't get Sfarzos. Highly recommend either but you should really give the Sfarzos a try.

 

[Coolhandjjl]

Rotosound Swing strings sound great on a P.

Everyone should try a set of Roto 66s at least once. I just can't afford to replace them every few weeks.

 

[staurosjohn]

Rotosound Swing Bass 66 Nickels on Oly white... Roto Swing Bass 66 Stainless Steel on Black(ie)... just enough difference to give some 'softness' (nickels), when needed, but similar enough (feel) to keep my fingers comfortable!

 

[nocalkind]

DR Lo-Riders. I use the stainless, but they also come in nickel.

 

[Yahboy]

I been try D'addario EXL 170 on my pbass, but it just sound metalic compare to stock Fender 7250ML . And EXL 170 dint have sweet lo-mid that found on 7250.

Back to Topic, i suggest DR Lorider Stainless round to get Piano-like tone.

 

[twc1313]

I dig the Fender 7250s as well. They are an all around solid string for tone, cost, and longevity.

 

[JimmyM]

I have a parts P-Bass with a Dimarzio Split P that I am currently using DR Sunbeams on. I'm planning on restringing it soon, since the strings are getting a little more mellow than I like. I was just going to string it up with Sunbeams again, as I liked the tone of them well enough, but I figured before ordering another set, I'd see what the talk bass community thinks.

The pick-ups are designed to even out the mid hump typical of p-basses. I wouldn't call the tone scooped, but there is definitely upper sizzle present that can get a little clanky with bright steel strings. I want to go with nickel because of this, but I do not want to want to lose too much high end content. Best description I can think of would be "piano" like tone, but I am weary of strings that advertise this because the combination of bright strings and brighter pick-ups may be overkill. Any suggestions?

Dunlop Super Bright Nickels are exactly that.